How Effective Is Your Sunscreen?

From SPF to Water Resistance, Your Ultimate Guide to Protection Against Harmful UV Rays

Summer is here. The days are longer, the sun is stronger, and we are outdoors more.

Our dermatologists remind patients that “It’s important to remember that there’s no such thing as 'light base, or safe tan.' An individual’s skin darkens or tans as a result of protecting itself from harmful UV rays. A tan is our skin’s way of telling us it is being damaged.”

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer found globally and having five or more sunburns in your life doubles your risk for melanoma.1 It’s key to remember that no sunscreen is the same, even if it is a high SPF.

It’s important to remember that there’s no such thing as 'light base, or safe tan.' An individual’s skin darkens or tans as a result of protecting itself from harmful UV rays. A tan is our skin’s way of telling us it is being damaged.

Key Factors to Consider for Sunscreen Selection

When deciding what type of sunscreen you should be wearing, consider these guidlines to help maximize protection from the sun. Following these suggestions will help safeguard your skin from the sun's harmful rays and prevent further damage.

Choose Broad-Spectrum

Broad-spectrum means that the sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB rays. All sunscreens protect against UVB rays, which are the cause of sunburns. But UVA rays also contribute to skin cancer and premature aging. Products that are not broad spectrum must carry a warning that they only protect against sunburn, not skin cancer or skin aging.

Choose SPF of 30 or More

Approximately 90% of non-melanoma cancers are the result of exposure to UV radiation from the sun. The SPF number indicates the level of protection against UVB rays. The FDA requires any sunscreen with an SPF below 15 to carry a warning that it only protects against burns, not skin cancer. Consider these facts:

SPF 15 filters out 93% of UVB rays
SPF 30 filters out 97% of UVB rays
SPF 50 filters 98% of UVB rays

Sweat & Water-Resistance

Manufacturers cannot claim a sunscreen is waterproof because no product is fully waterproof. Instead, sunscreens can be water-resistant, meaning it lasts for 40 minutes, or very water-resistant, meaning it lasts for 80 minutes. The bottom line is you must reapply sunscreen often. All sunscreens are meant to be re-applied every two hours but when you are swimming or exercising, you should re-apply even more often.

Proper Application and Premium Sunscreens

To help ensure your skin stays protected from the sun, watch this informative video on proper sunscreen application. Explore our selection of high-quality sunscreens available in our online store. Prioritize your skin health and incorporate sun-safe practices into your routine today.

Learn More About Sunscreen Application

Featured Sunscreens

EltaMD UV Physical SPF 41

For oil-free sun protection with just a touch of color, EltaMD's lightly tinted UV Physical is a healthy choice. This chemical-free mineral sunscreen has antioxidants to neutralize free radicals. Water-resistant UV Physical withstands water, humidity and perspiration.

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EltaMD UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+

The perfect sunscreen to take with you on the go, anywhere you're headed. EltaMD UV Stick is an easy application, mess-free, residue-free sun protection that is dermatologist tested and formulated for the whole family and all skin types. Perfect for travel and re-application on the go, this water-resistant, all-mineral SPF 50+ formula is fast absorbing, blends easily and works for all skin tones without leaving a white cast. With broad-spectrum and antioxidant protection against UVA (aging), UVB (burning) and HEV (high energy visible or blue light) rays, this sunscreen has you covered!