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February 12, 2024
In case you've ever wondered, "Is a higher SPF better?" You are not alone. It only makes sense that sunscreens with a high SPF would offer better protection. But it's not that simple. Any sunscreen with an SPF greater than 50 may overexpose users to the sun's damaging rays and may give them a false sense of security, according to the Environmental Working Group's (EWG) annual sunscreen report.
We'll go over how SPF works, why high SPF sunscreens aren't necessarily better, and how to pick the best sunscreen for daily use in order to give you more confidence while using sunscreen.
Functions of SPF
Sun protection factor (SPF), frequently referred to as how long it takes for the skin to become burnt by the sun's UV rays, is a metric of this. The decision to buy sunscreen is frequently influenced by this. It is, however, typically a suspect indicator of efficiency. In the absence of a broad-spectrum label, SPF only describes how well a product blocks UVB rays; it does not describe how well it will shield you from other dangerous wavelengths.
Blocking yourself from both types of UV radiation is crucial for best protection against the sunβs damaging rays.
UV-B Rays
UVB radiation from the sun is the main cause of sunburn and non-melanoma skin malignancies.
UVA Rays
Sunburns, skin aging, and some of the more deadly melanoma-type skin cancers can all be brought on by UVA radiation because it can enter your deeper skin layers. A higher SPF often results in less UVA protection. Later, we'll go into greater detail about this.
Why is Sun Protection Essential?
Sunscreen shields your skin from the sun's damaging UV rays and helps prevent two forms of burns, including first-degree sunburns (pink or red skin) and second-degree sunburns (blistering). The last thing you want to deal with is the healing process for a first- or second-degree sunburn. However, sunscreen serves purposes that go beyond shielding skin from burns. Additionally, it can aid in preventing skin aging and skin cancer.
Why is high SPF bad for you?
As previously stated, a sunscreen with a higher SPF usually offers less UVA protection than UVB protection. High SPF sunscreen may still be able to prevent sunburns, but it cannot stop UVA from creating the risky free radicals that might cause melanoma. A broad-spectrum sunscreen can aid in shielding your skin from UVA and UVB rays' potentially harmful effects.
A greater SPF sunscreen, such as SPF 100 over SPF 50, can provide the impression that you are twice as protected. This erroneous sense of security can result in more sun exposure, a lesser likelihood of reapplication, and a perception that you need less shade or shelter.
Continuing from the prior statement, SPF 50 blocks approximately 98% of UVB rays whereas SPF 100 blocks around 99%. Consequently, even though it has twice as much SPF, it is just 1% more effective. The difference in protection is not as great as you might assume!
No matter how sensitive your skin is, an SPF 30β50 will work just fine to prevent sunburns.
It's not difficult to infer that sunscreens with higher SPFs contain more of the ingredients that block sunlight. There is evidence that some of these active substances can harm tissue, interfere with hormone function, and trigger allergic reactions.
The need for increased exposure to these chemicals is unnecessary because a higher SPF doesn't lower the risk for skin cancer and damage.
How Much SPF Should I Use Daily?
Depending on you, your skin type, and how much time you'll be in the sun, the answer to this question varies. The Skin Cancer Foundation advises picking a sunscreen with an SPF of between 15 and 50. For people who spend the majority of their time indoors or who will only be outside for a brief period of time, SPF 15 is recommended. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF closer to 30+ if you want to spend more time outside.
Which Sunscreen is Ideal For Daily Use?
You may respond to the question "is a high SPF better?" now that you are aware of how SPF functions. Probably on your mind is what kind of sunscreen you ought to use. You should search for a broad spectrum sunscreen when selecting a brand because it will shield the skin from UVA and UVB rays.Β
You should also look for clothing that is water-resistant if you plan to spend a lot of time in the water or perspire a lot.
Additionally, keep in mind that applying sunscreen by itself won't protect your skin. Before you notice a sunburn developing, seek shade and cover up.
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