Skin Care

What Is SPF? Decoding The Types And Best SPF Sunscreens

When it comes to skincare, the first thing that comes to most of our minds is the CTM routine – Cleansing, Toning, and Moisturising. However, there’s another step that is equally integral and non-negotiable – sunscreen. Whether you’re stepping out or staying indoors, applying sunscreen is crucial. However, selecting sunscreen can be tricky, especially if you’re not aware of what is SPF or what the different numbers next to them mean. For instance, you will find multiple options available like sunscreen SPF 50, SPF 30, SPF 20, and even SPF 15. But what do these numbers mean? And how is sunscreen SPF 50 different from SPF 30 or 15? Let’s find out. In this article, we will discuss what is SPF, types of SPF, best SPF sunscreen, and more! Stay tuned and be an SPF pro!

What is SPF?

The SPF in sunscreen stands for Sun Protection Factor. SPF is a relative measurement of the time till your sunscreen protects you from harmful UV rays. SPF shows you how much you can minimise the risk of sun-induced damage when you have sunscreen on.
UVA rays are primarily related to the tanning of the skin. On the other hand, UVB rays harm the external layer of the skin aka the epidermis. UVB rays are the reasons you get sunburn. These harmful rays can also cause surface-level skin cancer.

SPF usually protects against UVB rays and lets you know how long it will take for the sun to burn your skin after exposure, compared to when there is no sunscreen on the skin. However, some SPF sunscreens also shield your skin from the negative effects of UVA rays. In other words, sunscreens create a barrier on the skin that protects it from UVA and UVB rays.

What is Broad Spectrum sunscreen, you ask? A broad-spectrum sunscreen can block both the harmful rays and prevent skin damage. UVB rays cause the skin to go red. On the other hand, UVA rays are responsible for photoaging including wrinkles. If you choose SPF sunscreens that only protects against UVB rays, your skin won’t receive UVA protection. Hence, it is imperative to use a Broad Spectrum or Full Spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA, UVB, blue light, and infrared-A protection.

Now that you know what is SPF, let’s move on to learn about the different types of SPF sunscreens.

Types of SPF

Let’s start with the biggest SPF number first:

  • SPF 50 sunscreen offers protection against 98% of UVB rays
  • SPF 30 sunscreen will offer protection against 97% UVB rays
  • SPF 15 sunscreen blocks 93% of UVB rays

If you use sunscreen SPF 50, it means your skin will probably take 50 times longer to burn as compared to not using sunscreen. Similarly, if you use SPF 15 sunscreen, it will take 15 times longer to burn the skin compared to unprotected skin.

Under specific UV conditions, it takes approximately 10 minutes for the skin to turn red without sunscreen. Therefore, if you use SPF 30 sunscreen, you will get 300 minutes or 5 hours of sun protection. However, it doesn’t mean that a higher SPF would offer longer hours of protection. In means, the blocking effect of SPF sunscreen will diminish after 2 hours. Hence, it is recommended to re-apply sunscreen every two hours.

Benefits of SPF sunscreens

Here’s a glimpse of the benefits of SPF sunscreen:

  • SPF sunscreens shield your skin from harmful UV rays
  • These sun protection products prevent premature ageing
  • Using SPF sunscreen lowers the risk of skin cancer
  • You can prevent sunburn by including sunscreen SPF 50 in your skincare routine
  • Say goodbye to tanning with a broad-spectrum sunscreen

When you’re outdoors, you need sun protection for maximum time. Considering that, we have compiled some of the best SPF 50 sunscreens. Read on and choose the one based on your skin type and need.

Best SPF 50 sunscreens for different skin types and concerns

L’Oréal Paris UV Defender range stores some of the best SPF 50 sunscreens. Skim through the list and choose the best sunscreen SPF 50 based on your skin type:

Best SPF 50 sunscreen for oily skin

If you have an oily skin type, you should use matte sunscreens. This type of sunscreen contains a non-greasy formula and gives a mattifying effect even in hot and humid weather. You can try the L'Oreal Paris UV Defender Serum Protector Matte and Fresh Sunscreen that prevents fine lines, dark spots, and dullness, making it ideal for people with oily skin. This broad-spectrum sunscreen has a powerful combination of SPF 50+ PA++++ that protects against UVA, UVB, and long-range UV. This sunscreen SPF 50+ has a lightweight creamy texture with oil-controlling ingredients such as Airlicium, which absorbs sebum and reduces shine and pore visibility.

Best SPF 50 sunscreen for dry skin

For dry skin, you need a hydrating sunscreen to make your skin look plump and moisturised. The L'Oreal Paris UV Defender Serum Protector Moist and Fresh Sunscreen has a creamy, non-oily texture. It is infused with Hyaluronic acid that moisturises your skin and makes it look fresh. Reapply this sunscreen SPF 50+ every 3-4 hours to keep your skin hydrated and sun-protected for a longer duration.

Best SPF 50 sunscreen for dull skin

If you’re looking for a sunscreen that can remove dullness and protect it from sun exposure at the same time, then a brightening sunscreen is the right one for you. With a combination of SPF 50+ PA++++ broad spectrum protection against UV rays, the L'Oreal Paris UV Defender Serum Protector Bright and Clear Sunscreen can help brighten your dull skin. It is a lightweight brightening sunscreen with SPF 50+, which has ingredients like Niacinamide for instant skin brightening.

Best SPF 50 sunscreen for uneven skin tone

If you have an uneven skin tone, we’d recommend you to use tinted sunscreens to give your skin an even tone along with sun protection. The L'Oreal Paris UV Defender Serum Protector Correct and Protect Sunscreen is infused with vitamin CG to protect your skin from free radicals, and apricot pigments that blend with the skin perfectly to give you radiant, even-toned skin. This broad-spectrum sunscreen has a combination of SPF 50+ PA++++ to protect you from UV rays and a non-greasy formula.

Pro Tip: Visit the L'Oréal Paris Skin Genuis tool to find personalised regimens for your skin. This tool, which has been approved by the International Board of Dermatologists at L'Oréal Paris, helps you analyse your skin like a pro and find the products that are most effective for you.

We hope, this detailed guide on what is SPF, the types of SPF, the benefits of SPF, and more, helped you learn everything about sunscreen. So, what are you waiting for? Pick the best SPF sunscreens and give your skin the optimal sun protection.

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