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Is SPF 50 better then SPF 30?

Updated: 9/7/2023
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11y ago

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From the Journal of The National Cancer Institute:

According to Weinstock, the cap on SPF labeling is not a major issue for the public as a whole. "I think that if the general public uses SPF 30 or greater, that's sufficient." As Weinstock explained, SPF is a reciprocal function: SPF 15 lets in 1/15 of the burning rays; SPF 30 lets in 1/30; and SPF 50 lets in 1/50. Therefore, the difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50 is only a difference of 97% effectiveness versus 98% effectiveness. "That little bit may be important to some people who have particular sensitivity," said Weinstock. "But, to the general public, it really is not that critical."

Remember that SPF30+ sun cream will block out 97% of the sun's rays. SPF50+ will block out 98%. There is NO bearing on the DURATION you can put the sun screen on and expect protection.

The issue is that people generally don't put on enough, so they're only getting around 50% protection because of their own vanity. The more you put on, the closer you get to the full coverage offered by the cream. If you use an SPF30+ cream you'll only get a little less protection than the 50, but you need to use enough. The SPF isn't the issue, it's the usage.

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11y ago
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13y ago

spf 30 is for lighter skin

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Q: Is SPF 50 better then SPF 30?
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Related questions

Would adding spf 30 sunscreen to spf 50 sunscreen make it spf 80 sunscreen?

No. SPF 30 lets in 1/30 of burning UV rays, while SPF 50 lets in 1/50. Adding the two together is pointless and would not result in high levels of skin protection.


What is the highest SPF facial sunblock can be purchased in?

It was probably SPF 30 because that blocks 96.7% of UVB rays. SPF 50 blocks 98% so you aren't really getting that much more protection than the SPF 30. Neutrogena has a SPF 100 but it really isn't necessary because as I said, SPF 30 is already blocking a significant amount, and SPF 50 doesn't even make that much more of a difference. Just for your information, SPF 100 blocks 99% of UVB rays so it REALLY doesn't do much more than SPF 50.


What are the SPF levels of lotion for Coppertone?

Probably 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 25, and 50. Why do they would make lotion like SPF 5 and 10 while they already have SPF 50?


How much better is spf100 sunscreen than spf50?

100, because it offers more UV protection.


What is the minimum SPF to avoid sunburn?

You should wear at least an SPF level of 30 to prevent from being burned. You will also need to reapply as needed throughout the day to maintain the same level of protection.


What does SPF 50 mean?

SPF 50 stands for Sun Protection Factor 50, so if the normal time to get burnt is 20 minutes you will be safe for 50 times that.


What spf number do doctors recommend?

It has been recommended my medical experts that you should apply sun-screen with a minimum Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30. SPF 30 means it can protect you 30 times better than if you didn't have it. Remember that even if you have sunscreen on, you can still get sunburnt. The best sun protection is still shade. Avoid the sun during 11am and 2pm where the sun is most intense.


What spf number do doctors recommend when exposing yourself to the sun?

An SPF of about 30


What lip gloss has the highest SPF?

Neutrogena makes a spf 30 lipgloss.


What SPF sunscreen should one with light skin use?

It is proven that people with light skins, are best protected when using a SPF 50 sunscreen and upwards. Sunscreen has SPF ranging from 8, all the way up to 70. Depending on your skin tone, it is better to be too careful by protecting with a high number SPF.


What is a good spf sunscreen for kids?

4, 15, and 30 are good Sun Protection Factors for kids as they contain no "Bad Ingredients". SPF 50+ should not be used on young children. SPF 100+ can not be used on children under 13.


Is SPF 50 good for skin?

Yes, it is fine. If you have fair skin you can wear an even stronger SPF.