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Writer's pictureMarisa

Sunscreen & SPF: What's the Difference & Why Does it Matter?

In the realm of skincare and sun protection, terms like "sunscreen" and "SPF" are often thrown around without much explanation. Many of us use these products daily, but do we really understand the difference between them?


Let's dive into this topic to shed light on what sets sunscreen apart from SPF and why it matters.


SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is a numerical measure used to indicate the level of protection a product offers against UVB rays. In simpler terms, the higher the SPF number, the more protection your skin receives from harmful sun exposure. For instance, a sunscreen with SPF 30 will allow you to stay in the sun 30 times longer than if you had no protection before burning.


Now, what about sunscreen? Sunscreen is the physical product you apply to your skin to shield it from the sun's harmful rays. It comes in various forms - lotions, sprays, gels - catering to different preferences. Sunscreen contains a combination of ingredients, including those that act as UV filters to reflect or absorb the sun's rays and protect your skin.



Something to keep in mind when it comes to sunscreen is the difference between "regular" sunscreen and mineral sunscreen. Regular sunscreen, also known as chemical sunscreen, absorbs UV rays using ingredients like avobenzone and octinoxate, converting them into heat. Mineral sunscreen, also known as physical sunscreen, uses natural minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to reflect and scatter UV rays away from the skin.


Often times mineral sunscreen is generally better for sensitive skin. Here’s why:

Gentler Ingredients: Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are less likely to cause irritation compared to the chemical ingredients found in regular sunscreens.

Non-Irritating: These minerals sit on top of the skin rather than being absorbed, reducing the risk of skin reactions.

Physical Barrier: Mineral sunscreens create a physical barrier that reflects UV rays, which is less likely to cause allergic reactions or stinging, especially on sensitive or broken skin.

Because of these factors, mineral sunscreen is often recommended for those with sensitive skin, eczema, or other skin conditions.


Here's the crux of the matter: SPF is a measure of the level of protection a sunscreen offers . When you pick up a sunscreen bottle and see "SPF 50" on it, that number tells you how effective the product is at blocking UVB rays. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for adequate protection.


When it comes to choosing between sunscreens with different SPFs, you might wonder if a higher SPF is always better. While a higher number does offer increased protection, the difference between, say, SPF 50 and SPF 100 is minimal. What matters most is applying sunscreen generously and frequently - experts recommend every two hours and after swimming or sweating.


It's also important to understand the differences between SPF in beauty products and dedicated sunscreens. Sun protection is key so it's best to understand what you have and how to use it!


When looking at beauty products with SFP vs dedicated a dedicated sunscreen there are several things to think about. Here are a few things to consider:

Primary Function:

Beauty Products: SPF in beauty products is often included to provide a minimal level of sun protection during daily wear, suitable for incidental exposure.

Dedicated Sunscreens: These products are designed for prolonged outdoor activities and direct sun exposure, providing more reliable and durable protection.


Formulation and Purpose

Beauty Products: Products like foundations, moisturizers, primers, and BB/CC creams may include SPF for incidental sun protection. Their primary purpose is cosmetic, aiming to provide coverage or hydration with added sun protection as a secondary benefit.

Dedicated Sunscreens: These products are specifically formulated to provide effective UV protection. They are designed to adhere to stringent sunscreen regulations and often offer broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.


SPF Levels:

Beauty Products: SPF levels in beauty products tend to be lower (often between SPF 15 to 30) compared to dedicated sunscreens.

Dedicated Sunscreens: Sunscreens offer a wider range of SPF levels, typically starting from SPF 30 and going up to SPF 50+.


Application Amount:

Beauty Products: People often apply less of beauty products with SPF compared to dedicated sunscreens, which can impact the actual level of protection achieved.

Dedicated Sunscreens: Specific guidelines exist for the amount of sunscreen needed per application (about 2 mg/cm² of skin) to achieve the stated SPF level.


Regulation and Testing:

Beauty Products: SPF in beauty products may not undergo the same rigorous testing and regulation as dedicated sunscreens.

Dedicated Sunscreens: Sunscreens must comply with regulatory standards and undergo testing to validate their SPF claims.


Water Resistance:

Beauty Products: Most beauty products with SPF are not water-resistant or sweat-resistant.

Dedicated Sunscreens: Many sunscreens are formulated to be water-resistant, offering protection for a certain period of time even when swimming or sweating.


It's crucial to remember that sunscreen is just one part of sun safety. Seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours are all important strategies to protect your skin. Using sunscreen with a sufficient SPF and reapplying it diligently are steps you can take for healthier skin in the long run. So go ahead, have fun in the sun and keep your skin protected!


Looking for beauty products with SPF? Here's a few of my favorites!

Looking for a dedicated sunscreen? Personally, I prefer a mineral sunscreen and have found two that keep my sensitive skin happy. You can find them here and here.


Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my blog!

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