SPF 50 sunscreen formulas block a greater percentage of UVB rays. This means that the tanning effect will be even slower compared to SPF 30. SPF 50 is recommended for individuals who want to minimize tanning effects.
Yes, you read that right! Even formulas as strong as SPF 50 don't block all ultraviolet rays, which are the ones that color your skin a nice, even bronze. That means you can get a bronze tan while ensuring you don't burn and try to avoid skin cancer at the same time. Want to know more?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), any sun protection product to a degree containing a broad-spectrum rating of SPF 30 or more will guard your skin against sun-related damage including sunburns, skin cancer, early signs of aging, and, you guessed it, tanning.
Williams recommends people of color should use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for daily use. If you're going to be outside for prolonged periods of time, go for one with a higher SPF (greater than 50). Dr. Williams also highly recommends mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide in them.
"Properly applied SPF 50 sunscreen blocks 98 percent of UVB rays, while an SPF 30 sunscreen blocks 97 percent of sunburn rays – the difference being one percentage point." What is the problem with high SPF sunscreens?
Myth 1: Using SPF 50 Sunscreen Makes Skin Dark
There's a common misconception that using sunscreen with a high SPF, such as SPF 50, can lead to darker skin. However, this is not accurate. SPF 50 sunscreen provides robust protection against UVB rays, reducing the risk of sunburn and potential darkening.
The truth is, you can still tan even if you've diligently applied your highest SPF. However, tanning while wearing sunscreen usually boils down to one key issue: user error. We consulted a dermatologist to get the ins and outs of wearing sunscreen so that it actually does its job.
A UV index of 3-5 is considered moderate and is ideal for tanning. During this range, the sun's rays are strong enough to stimulate melanin production in the skin without causing severe damage. It's important to note that even at this level, prolonged exposure without protection can lead to sunburn.
SPF 50 sunscreen formulas block a greater percentage of UVB rays. This means that the tanning effect will be even slower compared to SPF 30. SPF 50 is recommended for individuals who want to minimize tanning effects.
SPF 50 stops up to 98% of UVB rays, as opposed to up to 96.7% provided by SPF 30. Protection levels above SPF 50 provide marginal additional coverage and no level of SPF can stop 100% of UVB rays. The SPF number indicates how long it might take you to get a sunburn after applying it, versus not wearing any at all.
No sunscreen can block 100% of the sun's UV rays and this enables you to still tan whilst wearing it. For example, SPF 50 blocks 98% of UV rays, meaning that approximately 2% will get through to your skin.
Its SPF 30 formula provides broad-spectrum protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays, reducing tanning while improving the appearance of scars. Take control of your sun protection routine and prioritise your skin's health today.
Changing position frequently, every 30 minutes, such as lying on your stomach, back or side, is important to ensure your skin tans evenly. In addition, it is important to position yourself correctly in the sunlight, moving the towel or lounger towards the sun, so that you are always in direct sunlight.
A cloudy sky may not seem like the best choice for tanning, but it is still possible to tan! According to research and studies, around 90% of UV rays penetrate clouds, therefore reaching your skin. Even if you can't feel the sun on your skin, the UV rays that lead to tanning are still present.
The difference between SPF 30 vs 50
The primary difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50 sunscreens lies in their level of protection against UVB rays. SPF 30 sunscreen blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 sunscreen blocks about 98%.
It has been found that in average conditions, a sunscreen with SPF 50 will last for approximately 3 to 4 hours [9]. If you're on the move, sweating, or in a place with a particularly strong UV index, it is recommended to apply SPF 50 sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours.
Does sunscreen reduce tanning? No − many people worry that by applying sunscreen they will reduce a tan, but this is not true. Sunscreens filter harmful UV rays, but not the melanin which tans your skin. In fact, applying sunscreen will enable you to have a deeper, more even tan.
As previously mentioned, tanning oils have little or no SPF to enable a quicker tan. For this reason, we strongly advise using tanning oil along with other sun protection products. Applying a sunscreen with an SPF before tanning oil, offers a layer of protection.