SPF vs Sunscreen
There’s a slight misunderstanding – SPF is actually a part of sunscreen, not something separate. Here’s how they differ:
Sunscreen: This is the generic term for any topical product that shields your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. It comes in various forms like lotions, sprays, gels, and sticks. Sunscreens work in two main ways:
- Chemical sunscreens: Absorb UV rays before they can reach your skin and convert them into heat, which is then released.
- Mineral sunscreens: Physically sit on the surface of your skin and reflect UV rays away.
SPF (Sun Protection Factor): This is a number on the sunscreen label that indicates how well it protects your skin from UVB rays, the type responsible for sunburns. Higher SPF numbers offer greater protection:
- SPF 15: Blocks 93% of UVB rays
- SPF 30: Blocks 97% of UVB rays
- SPF 50: Blocks 98% of UVB rays
- Click to buy: Dr Blem Sunblock Cream SPF 50
- SPF (Sun Protection Factor):
- SPF is a numerical measurement that indicates the level of protection a product provides against the sun’s ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.
- UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn and are also associated with the development of skin cancer.
- The SPF number is an indication of how much longer a person can stay in the sun without getting burned compared to not using any protection.
- For example, if you would normally burn after 10 minutes in the sun without protection, an SPF 30 sunscreen theoretically allows you to stay in the sun for 30 times longer without burning (300 minutes).
- It’s important to note that SPF primarily measures protection against UVB rays, and a higher SPF doesn’t necessarily mean proportionally more protection.
- Sunscreen:
- Sunscreen is a product that helps protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It includes both UVA and UVB rays.
- Sunscreen typically contains chemicals that absorb or reflect UV radiation, reducing its penetration into the skin.
- Sunscreen products often have an assigned SPF value to indicate their level of protection against UVB rays. However, they may also offer protection against UVA rays, which can contribute to premature aging and skin cancer.
- Sunscreens come in various forms, including lotions, creams, sprays, and sticks.
