Remember when you would spend days under the sun only to get red, sensitive, sunburnt skin? Or is “Sunscreen” constantly mentioned in your social media feed? You’re not alone! Attend any dermatologist consultation, and they can tell you that SPF, Sun Protection, and Sunscreen are mentioned for a good reason; they shield your skin against the sun’s harmful UV rays, which protects you from sunburn, premature skin aging, and skin cancer. 

What exactly is SPF, and what does it stand for? 

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. SPF is a measure of how well a sunscreen can protect your skin from Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. The number partnered with the SPF is an indicator of the amount of UV radiation it would take for your unprotected skin to get a sunburn.

What does the SPF number mean? 

The number associated with the SPF indicates the amount of UV radiation it would take for your unprotected skin to get a sunburn. There is a common misconception that the SPF number indicates how long you can stay under the sun, but it does not. Even if SPF 30 does provide more protection than SPF 15, but that does not mean you can stay under the sun for twice as long.

Here’s a quick guide on how much SPF protects you:

  • SPF 15: Blocks about 93% of UVB rays (7% penetration).

  • SPF 30: Blocks about 97% of UVB rays (3% penetration).

  • SPF 50: Blocks about 98% of UVB rays (2% penetration).

  • SPF 100: Blocks about 99% of UVB rays (1% penetration).

 What’s the difference between UVA and UVB rays? 

Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays have a longer wavelength than UVB rays, allowing them to penetrate deeper into the skin. This contributes to early signs of aging. UVB rays have a shorter wavelength, meaning they don’t penetrate as deeply into the skin as compared to UVA rays, but UVB rays can still lead to sunburn. However, it’s important to note that both UVA and UVB rays can potentially lead to skin cancer.

What happens if I skip applying sunscreen? 

Skipping sun protection, whether that’s on your face and body, has short-term and long-term effects.  Here are just a few things that can happen if you skip your sun protection: 

  • Sunburn: The most immediate and obvious consequence, causing redness, pain, and peeling. Repeated sunburns significantly increase your risk of skin cancer.

  • Sun Allergy (Photosensitivity): For some individuals, sun exposure can trigger allergic reactions like rashes, itching, and blisters.

  • Premature Aging: This is where the long-term damage shows. UV rays break down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, age spots (hyperpigmentation), and leathery, thickened skin.

  • Increased Risk of Skin Cancer: Prolonged and unprotected sun exposure is a major risk factor for all types of skin cancer, including melanoma, which can be life-threatening.


How does sunscreen help my skin? 

Beyond preventing sunburn and skin aging, sun protection offers numerous  benefits for various skin types and concerns:

  • For People with Acne: Sun exposure can sometimes worsen inflammation and hyperpigmentation (dark spots) left behind by breakouts. SPF helps prevent this, protecting against further damage and promoting clearer skin. Look for non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog your pores

  • For People with Sensitive Skin: UV radiation can irritate sensitive skin, leading to redness, itching, and discomfort. Mineral-based sunscreens (physical SPF) are often a gentler option for sensitive skin as they sit on the skin's surface rather than being absorbed.

  • For People with Dry Skin: Some sunscreens contain moisturizing ingredients, helping combat dryness while providing sun protection. Look for formulas with hydrating components like hyaluronic acid or ceramides.

  • Overall Skin Health: By blocking damaging UV rays, sunscreen helps maintain skin health, elasticity, and a youthful appearance. It's a proactive step in preventing long-term damage and preserving a healthy skin barrier.

 

No matter your skin type and concern, you can schedule a dermatologist consultation to understand your skin better. 

How to Choose Sunscreen 

When choosing a sunscreen, it’s most important to go for one with at least SPF 30, and most importantly, broad-spectrum protection.  This ensures it protects from both UVA and UVB rays. 

There are two main types of sunscreen to consider: Chemical and Physical. 

Chemical Sunscreens typically contain oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate - These are the UV filters in the sunscreen. Chemical sunscreens also absorb the UV radiation, convert it into heat, and release it from your skin. They tend to have a thinner, lighter, and watery feel on the skin. 

Physical Sunscreens (also known as mineral sunscreens) use UV filters like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Instead of absorbing UV rays, they create a physical barrier on the skin’s surface that reflects and scatters the UV radiation. While often a bit creamier and less lightweight than chemical sunscreens, they can leave a white cast on the skin, which is the result of the physical barrier against the sun. 

Both types of sunscreen effectively protect against UV rays; the best choice depends on your personal preference for texture, feel, and what you'll use regularly.

If you have skin concerns, such as eczema, rosacea, sensitive skin, and such you can ensure that you choose the best sunscreen for your skin type by consulting with a dermatologist. Schedule an online dermatologist consultation to get professional input on what type of sunscreen can suit you best. 

How to Properly Wear Sunscreen

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), it’s important to apply sunscreen every day, regardless of whether it’s sunny or cloudy, as UV rays can still penetrate your skin, even indoors. They recommend reapplying sunscreen every 2 hours, or more often if you are swimming, sweating, or engaging in water activities.

For facial sunscreen, the AAD suggests using at least 1/4 teaspoon for your face and neck to ensure adequate sun protection. Be generous with the application for optimal coverage. 

Sunscreen recommendation 

Speaking of efficient sun protection, Dream Shield Universal Day Cream by Pure Culture is a lightweight and hydrating physical type of sunscreen that provides SPF50, broad-spectrum protection, protecting you from UVA and UVB rays every day! Even if Dream Shield is a physical type of sunscreen, it was carefully formulated to leave no white cast. It is also infused with amber powder and CoQ10 to help improve the appearance of fine lines, Kakadu plum to enhance your glow, as well as Marshmallow Root and Wheat germ to soothe and support your skin barrier, making it perfect for all skin types - even those with sensitive skin! 

Final Verdict: Sun Protection is a Non-Negotiable 

The constant emphasis on SPF, sunscreen, and sun protection is not just skincare hype—it’s a vital part of your routine to protect against harmful UV rays. Consistently incorporating sun protection helps prevent concerns like sunburn, premature aging, and, most importantly, the long-term risk of skin cancer. Sun protection isn’t just a cosmetic choice; it’s a proactive and essential step in maintaining your skin’s health and well-being for years to come.

Last medically reviewed on April 29, 2025