What does SPF 50 mean? It’s important to understand your sunscreen products

The sun protection factors (SPFs) are marked on the sunscreen products we usually use. SPF 50 is a relatively common factor, but what does SPF 50 mean? Let’s find out together.

What does SPF 50 mean?

The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is a test index that measures the ability of sunscreen to protect against ultraviolet UVB in sunlight, indicating the level of sun protection effectiveness that sunscreen products can provide. The SPF 50 means that if your skin will turn red after 10 minutes under the scorching sun without sunscreen, then after using SPF50 sunscreen, it will take 500 minutes under the scorching sun for your skin to turn red. However, this is only a theoretical value. If you sweat and secrete a lot of oil, this time will be shortened.

What kind of environment is SPF 50 suitable for?

You only need to use sunscreen with an SPF of 50 when you are in tropical areas or on the plateau under the scorching sun or go swimming at the beach. This is because while sunscreen absorbs ultraviolet rays, it has a certain irritating effect on the skin. If the ultraviolet absorber is excessive, it will also become a burden on the skin. Therefore, it is enough to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or below on a normal basis.

How to choose the sun protection factor that suits you

If you work indoors and don't go out much, use sunscreen of SPF15~SPF20; if you need to run around outside or travel on holidays, use sunscreen of SPF20 or above; if you travel to a beach or tropical area, you need sunscreen of SPF30 or above. In addition, the choice of sunscreen should also depend on your skin color. People with fair skin are best to choose sunscreen with an SPF of more than 30 to prevent the formation of spots; people with darker skin can usually use sunscreen with SPF15.