We know that you don’t step out without applying sunscreen. You might be using SPF 30 or SPF 50 in your skincare routine. But do you know what SPF means? How SPF 30 is different from SPF 50 and which one is better for your skin? The majority of you lack a basic understanding of SPF. For the proper care of your skin, it’s important to have a basic understanding of the key skincare products like sunscreen. So, in this guide, we have broken down the SPF into everything you need to know.

Let’s be Beauty with Brains. 

SPF Meaning

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays—the ones responsible for sunburn. But SPF doesn’t block 100% of UVB radiation. 

Difference Between SPF 30 and SPF 50

Learn about the basic understanding of SPF 30 and SPF 50 from the below table:


Feature

SPF 30

SPF 50

UVB Protection

Blocks ~97% of UVB rays

Blocks ~98% of UVB rays

Best For

Daily use, mild sun exposure

High sun exposure, prolonged outdoor activities

Reapplication Frequency

Every 2 hours

Every 2 hours (more protection but still requires reapplication)

Skin Type Suitability

Suitable for all skin types, often found in moisturizers

Ideal for sensitive or fair skin prone to sunburn

Common Formulations

Found in lightweight formulas, e.g., SPF 30 sunscreen for daily use or SPF 30 moisturizer with sunscreen

Often available in broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 50 and water-resistant sunscreen SPF 50

While SPF 50 provides more protection than SPF 30, the difference is minimal. 

What Does PA stand for in SPF?

PA stands for Protection Grade for UVA. As SPF only measures UVB protection, but UVA rays are just as harmful, this is where PA ratings come in.

  • PA+ = Some UVA protection

  • PA++ = Moderate UVA protection

  • PA+++ = High UVA protection

  • PA++++ = Very high UVA protection

For superior UVA and UVB defense, opt for an SPF 50 PA+++ face sunscreen. 

Choosing the Right SPF for Your Skin Type

Every skin type has different needs when it comes to sunscreen. Here’s how to pick the best SPF for you:

  • Oily Skin: Look for lightweight, non-greasy options like an SPF 50 sunscreen for oily skin.

  • Dry Skin: A SPF 30 sunscreen for dry skin or an SPF 30 moisturizer with sunscreen hydrates while protecting against UV rays.

  • Sensitive Skin: Opt for a SPF 50 PA+++ sunscreen for sensitive skin, preferably fragrance-free and formulated with soothing ingredients.

Also Read: Morning Skincare Tips for Dry Skin 

Conclusion

As you now have a key understanding of your key skincare product i.e. sunscreen, so make an informed decision in buying the right sunscreen as per your skin type.