SPF 30 vs SPF 50: How To Choose Your Sunscreen SPF
Since we’re living in Malaysia, a tropical country, there’s no way we can escape from the sun. Whether you love the sun or you’re constantly hiding from the sun, your skin gets exposed to the sun’s harmful UV rays every time you head out. One of the most important steps you need in your morning skincare routine would be to apply sunscreen so you can avoid sun damage.
In this article, let’s learn about the differences between SPF 30 vs SPF 50 sunscreens, and how to choose the right one for your skin!
What is SPF?
You probably would have heard of SPF when it comes to sunscreens. But what really is SPF? Do the numbers beside it really matter? Which SPF should we choose? How can we make sure our skin stays safe whenever we step out in the sun? To answer these questions and more; UVA and UVB rays are major factors that should be taken into account while selecting an appropriate sunscreen with the right elements of SPF protection.
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor which is used to measure how much protection a particular product (sunscreen) provides against UVB rays which have an effect on the upper layer of the skin that cause sunburns, skin damage and can potentially cause skin cancer as well. A sunscreen with a higher SPF offers greater protection for your skin.
Wondering how SPF works? Depending on whether they’re chemical or mineral sunscreens, they work by absorbing or reflecting these harmful UVB rays to protect the skin.
Don’t underestimate the power of sunscreen! Including an SPF in your daily skincare routine is no longer a suggestion, it’s essential. For those who aren’t aware of the importance of using an SPF sunscreen, here are some reasons why you should prioritise wearing sunscreen every day – even on cloudy days!
Benefits of Sunscreens
Reduce the risk of sunburn
Getting a sunburn after spending hours under the sun is no fun, believe us! It’s painful and it may feel hot to the touch. Some sunburns are so bad that the skin starts to swell. Wearing an SPF sunscreen helps to reduce the risk of sunburn. If you’re going to be in the sun for a long time, be sure to reapply, especially if you’re in the water! Constant sunburns can lead to damaged skin, premature wrinkles and even skin cancer.
Prevent premature skin ageing
When your skin gets exposed to harmful UV rays repeatedly without the use of sunscreen, there will be damage to your skin cells, elastin and collagen. Eventually, over time, this may lead to premature ageing of the skin where fine lines, wrinkles and discolouration of the skin develops.
Helps maintain an even skin tone
Sun spots or dark spots can develop if your skin is regularly exposed to the sun without the use of sunscreen. Skin discolouration may take place, and to help maintain an even skin tone, be sure to use a good sunscreen.
Reduce inflammation
When your skin gets exposed to UV rays, it can cause redness and skin inflammation especially if you have skin issues like sensitive skin or you are prone to redness and inflammation. Wearing an SPF sunscreen can definitely reduce inflammation.
Difference between SPF 30 vs SPF 50
There is a wide range of sunscreen in Malaysia to choose from, so how do we know which one works best for us? SPF 30 vs SPF 50? Is SPF 50 better than SPF 30? While shopping for the perfect sunscreen in Malaysia, you would have come across sunscreen SPF 30 and below as well as SPF 50 and above. There is actually a difference between them.
A sunscreen with an SPF 30 will protect your skin from about 96.7% of UVB rays and SPF 50 on the other hand protects you from around 98% of harmful UVB rays. SPF 30 allows about 3% of UVB rays to hit your skin while SPF 50 allows about 2% of UVB rays to get through.
Though it doesn’t sound like a lot of difference, trust us, a sunscreen with SPF 30 actually allows about 50% more UV radiation through. However, there are no sunscreens available that can block 100% of UVB rays.
Though a sunscreen with SPF 50 offers higher and better protection, this doesn’t mean you can indulge more time outdoors without reapplying sunscreen. Sunscreens can be wiped off easily and lost through sweat. We are still required to reapply every two hours to keep our skin fully protected from harmful sun rays, especially after swimming or any other activities that can make us sweat.
What SPF should I use for my face?
Now when it comes to your face, wearing a good SPF sunscreen daily is the best thing you can do for your skin. Though you definitely can’t escape the sun, you can always use sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful rays and prevent premature ageing. So which is the right sunscreen you should use for your face?
A sunscreen with SPF 50 offers more protection for your skin compared to SPF 30. Most dermatologists would recommend using a minimum of SPF 30 or more on your face even if you’re just sitting in an office or a classroom.
For those who frequently drive, whether you’re just sending the kids to school or driving to work, you actually spend a lot of time being exposed to the sun without realising it. Just because it’s cooling in the car or the sun is hiding behind a cloud, it doesn’t mean that the harmful rays are not exposing your skin. Your car windows can shield you from the rays to a certain extent but adding sunscreen to your morning skincare routine is a must.
If you’re constantly outdoors and frequently exposed to the sun whether it’s in the morning or evening, it’s better to choose a sunscreen with SPF 50 as it provides better protection compared to SPF 30. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours for maximum protection!
Should I use SPF protection every day?
Yes of course! It’s important to use SPF protection every day, no matter if it’s sunny or cloudy. Some people think it’s only important to use sunscreen when they’re out at the beach or when they’re on vacation where they will be exposed to the sun for long periods of time. Some people, on the other hand, know they should use it every day but don’t.
You need to remember how important it is to wear an SPF sunscreen in Malaysia daily or you will risk getting a sunburn which can lead to premature ageing, skin damage and even skin cancer over time.
UV rays are always present whether it’s sunny or cloudy. These harmful UV rays are one of the main causes of fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots and discolouration of the skin which we really want to avoid.
Protect your skin with WonderDewi Cica Sunscreen
You’ve read the importance of wearing an SPF sunscreen, now you should definitely add this step to your morning skincare routine. If you’re looking for something to protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, the WonderDewi Cica Sunscreen can help you with this! Start your mornings by taking care of your skin first! Check it out today!