Sun creams are products that are things that have been associated with skin protection from the burning sun and ultraviolet radiation. But when it’s time to get it right, many folks will stand in front of an entire aisle packed with bottles that contain different SPF numbers – 30, 50, and 100. You must be wondering things like whether one needs to pursue the use of SPF 50 or whether there is a difference between using SPF 30 and 50.
Let’s understand what this entails, which protection level is suitable for your skin type, and whether there is a significant difference between the higher numbers. We’ll also discuss such issues as skin cancer protection, early signs of aging, and how the method of applying the cream does matter, even if it has a high SPF rate. Let’s clear some myths and know the different facts about SPF 30 vs 50 then.
Table of Contents
What Does SPF Actually Mean?
To understand as to why SPF 30 is different from SPF 50, let me offer you a clue as to what those letters SPF stand for. Let me explain what the letters SPF mean: SPF means “Sun Protection Factor.” It concerns the degree of shield that a sunscreen offers to these specific types of risky rays – the ones that lead to sunburn and harm skin tissue, that there is an increased risk of skin cancer known as UVB rays.
The SPF number is, in fact, the measure of how long a person is safe in the sun before their skin is burned. For example, if you usually cannot endure more than 10 minutes of sunbathing before getting sunburnt, an SPF 30 sun lotion should help you have a sunbath for 300 minutes before being sun burnt.
But here’s where it gets tricky: SPFs do not offer full protection. This is what has established that regardless of the claim that an SPF 30 and SPF 50 will shield your skin from UV rays, they failed to achieve this. That is why it is critical that we understand how these products operate.
SPF 30 vs SPF 50: The Numbers Behind the Protection
Well, before I proceed, I’d like to show you the true distinction between SPF 30 and SPF 50 as far as protection from the sun is concerned.
The SPF 30 sunscreen will provide 97% UVB protection, meaning 3% of the UVB rays will get through to the skin.
It is a fact that SPF 50 sunscreen protects skin from 98% UVB rays hence only 2% passes through the skin.
While 10 more minutes may not sound like much, it can add up, and if you have sensitive or fair skin that you got sunburned or are out for a long time. But does that mean that it is rational to invest SPF 50 for your skin is wise for everyone? Let’s take a closer look.
Is SPF 50 Worth It? Breaking Down the Benefits
When it comes to the comparison of SPF 30 and SPF 50, most people think that SPF 50 brings nearly double protection. But the range of UVB protection can vary only as much as 1% more. More specifically, SPF 30 will prevent 97 percent from UVB rays, and SPF 50 with 98 percent from the same UVB rays. That one percent may not seem like a lot, but to specific demographics and in specific situations, one percent is a bonus.
Who Should Choose SPF 50?
For people with sensitive skin that tends to show signs of burning or redness after very little exposure to the sun, then a simple SPF 50 sunscreen comes in handy when you are out playing sports, going hiking, or when you are at the beach. The irreparable damage from sun exposure is cumulative, so the more you delegate your skin to the merciless rays, the more you risk aging and, worse still, developing skin cancer.
Moreover, people who have a history of skin cancer in their family or those who live in places with extreme sunlight may enjoy applying SPF 50 sunscreen as it has proved to be more effective in the process of protecting your skin.
Water Resistance Sunscreens and SP 50
Another factor that you should look at is whether or not you’ll be sweating or be in water often. If that is true, it can be critically important to select a waterproof sunscreen solution to use. These are the best options that protect skin from UV rays when swimming, exercising, or during any activity that causes sweating.
To reiterate: even the best sunscreens do not have ‘waterproof’ labeling and ideally, you’ll need to reapply sunscreen every two hours depending on swimming or heavy perspiration.
When Is SPF 30 Enough?
Though SPF 50 protects the skin with 98% shielding from UVB rays, that extra 1% is rarely imperative. While going out for chores or being outdoors for short durations, SPF 30 is plenty sufficient for all fairness requirements. SPF 30 actually provides almost as protection by blocking out 97% of the UVB and, if applied correctly, is more than adequate to prevent sunburn, skin aging, and any other skin problems that can be attributed to the sun’s UV rays.
I have found that as long as you reapply the sunblock every two hours or immediately after swimming or doing any activity that makes you sweat, SPF 30 should suffice for daily use.
So, Ladies and gentlemen, no matter if you wear SPF 30 or SPF 50, remember that the secret is regular use of this product.
Conclusion: Is SPF 50 Worth It?
So, is SPF 50 worth it? The answer will vary and depends on your circumstances. Those with sensitive skin, who easily burn or if you’ll be outdoors for a long time, then using the SPF 50 sunscreen that protects 98% of the UVB rays is a good decision. However, for most purposes, even an SPF 30 which blocks 97% of the UVB rays will work just as well providing one uses it as per directions and re-applies it as often as is necessary.
Ultimately, the best sunscreen between SPF 30 vs 50 is the one you’ll use regularly and correctly. Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays should be a daily priority, no matter which SPF you choose.