Many people choose sunscreen, always think that the higher the SPF value the stronger the protection, however, the protective effect of sunscreen is not linear growth, blind pursuit of high SPF value may be counterproductive.
The essence of the SPF value is to measure the ability to protect against UVB (causing sunburn), the calculation method is based on the ideal conditions in the laboratory In reality, however, factors such as perspiration, friction, and ambient humidity can drastically reduce the effective time. Regardless of SPF, reapplication every 2 hours remains a hard and fast rule.
The SPF value is only for UVB, while the protection against UVA (causing photoaging) depends on the PA value or the “Broad Spectrum” label. Sun protection should take into account both UVB and UVA, rather than merely pursuing the SPF value.
High SPF value is easy for people to produce “all-day worry-free” illusion, ignoring the importance of hard sunscreen. The ABC principle of sunscreen (avoid sunlight, physical shielding, sunscreen), sunscreen is the last line of defense.
Higher SPF isn’t better for sunscreens; matching protection scenarios with skin type needs is key. Instead of obsessing over the numerical value, focus on broad-spectrum protection, dosage and reapplication habits – the real secret to fighting UV rays.
