A sunscreen with SPF 30 will protect you from around 96.7% of UVB rays, whereas an SPF of 50 means protection from about 98% of UVB rays. Anything beyond SPF 50 makes very little difference in terms of risk of sun damage, and no sunscreens offer 100% protection from UVB rays.
So ideally, with SPF 30 it would take you 30 times longer to burn than if you weren't wearing sunscreen. An SPF 30 allows about 3 percent of UVB rays to hit your skin. An SPF of 50 allows about 2 percent of those rays through.
Dermatologists recommend using an SPF of at least 30, which Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, MD, a dermatologist practicing in New York, calls "the magic number". SPF 15 blocks about 93 percent of UVB rays, while SPF 30 blocks about 97 percent of UVB rays. The ADA recommends an SPF of 30 or higher.
While wearing sunscreen is better than not wearing any, if you have a choice, it's best to choose a sunscreen with broad-spectrum UV protection of at least SPF 30. These recommendations apply to people of all skin tones. Ideally, you should also apply sunscreen to your skin 30 minutes before going out into the sun.
Ideally, look for SPF 30 or higher. Know your skin type: If you have dry skin, choose a face sunscreen with hydrating ingredients, says Dr. Zeichner, like hyaluronic acid or ceramides. If you have oily skin, look for sunscreens that have a matte finish.
Lotions and sun-guards containing SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 20 to 35 are suitable for Indian skin types. The rays of the sun affect fair complexion easily. Lotions having SPF 30 is the best for people having a fair or wheatish complexion.
“SPF 15 blocks 94% UVB rays, whereas SPF 30 blocks 97% UVB and SPF 50 blocks 98% UVB. Therefore, it's a good idea to opt for SPF 50 even on a daily basis. But not more than that as SPF higher than it can only block an additional 2% of UVB radiation.” Even dermatologist Dr.
When possible, go with a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least 30 SPF. To be clear, an SPF higher than 30 isn't harmful or ineffective. If you have SPF 50, use and reapply it as often as you would SPF 30.
Most experts agree that's not a good move. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that everyone use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day. People who have darker skin—and the slight protection that extra melanin provides—might be tempted to skimp.
As non-dermatologists, though, we're comfortable touting a summer tan as a positive thing—when you follow the rest of this advice and get said tan ever so gradually. “Everyone should be using at least SPF 30 with broad spectrum coverage daily, regardless of whether or not you plan to spend dedicated time outdoors,” Dr.
"For Indian skin, any sunscreen containing SPF 15 and above is preferred. The difference between SPF 15 and 50 is minimal. Sunscreens with higher SPF ratings block slightly more UVB rays, but none offers 100 percent protection," she said.
Who Needs Sunscreen? Every child needs sun protection. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends that all kids — regardless of their skin tone — wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Put another way, if your unprotected skin would take ten minutes to show signs of burning, then properly applying SPF 30 sunscreen would slow the rate of burning to the point where it would take 30 times longer, or 300 minutes in total. SPF 15 would take 150 minutes, while SPF 50, 500 minutes.
Key takeaways: Ultraviolet light from the sun can increase your risk of skin cancer and skin aging. Many safe and effective sunscreens are available, and it's important to use them the right way. Using sunscreen every day — no matter where you live or what color your skin — can protect you from sun damage.
A sunscreen's sun protection factor (SPF) is only fully effective for two hours after you put it on. Experts recommend carrying a bottle of SPF 30 to SPF 50 sunscreen around with you, even on cloudy or rainy summer days, so you can throw some on if the sun comes out.
The SPF 50 provides adequate protection for your skin by forming a protective layer on the skin that shields it from UVA and UVB rays. The lotion is ideal for skin tones found in India. It absorbs quickly and can also be worn under makeup. It is suitable for all skin types because it is both non-sticky and hydrating.
Properly applied SPF 50 sunscreen blocks 98 percent of UVB rays; SPF 100 blocks 99 percent. When used correctly, sunscreen with SPF values between 30 and 50 offers adequate sunburn protection, even for people most sensitive to sunburn.
According to the FDA, Sunscreens should reapply every two hours and more often after swimming or sweating. Must remember to follow this instruction, as a failure of this can retard the sunscreen's efficacy.
Sunscreen can either be effective for up to 40 minutes or up to 80 minutes in water. It's much easier for people to understand the need to reapply at least every 2 hours. You should reapply every 40 or 80 minutes while swimming or sweating, depending on the product.
"Individuals with fair skin and hair, light-coloured eyes, freckles and moles are at highest risk of skin damage and should always use a minimum factor of 30 or 50," explains London-based consultant dermatologist Dr Justine Kluk, something Dr Mahto elaborates on.
You'll want to use about . 04 ounces of sunscreen on your face, which equates to the size of a nickel or 1/4 to 1/3 of a teaspoon. Don't forget your neck, area behind your ears, temples, or hairline.