SPF Explained

SPF stands for “sun protection factor,” and it’s how we measure the protection from the sun’s UVB rays. For example, SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks 97%, and SPF 50 blocks 98%. Experts recommend staying between 30 and 50 SPF—it's sufficient protection without feeling a false sense of complete sun protection with an option over 50.

You’ll want to make sure your sunscreen is “broad-spectrum,” meaning it protects from both UVA and UVB rays. An easy way to distinguish the two is UVA(ging) and UVB(urning). Both rays have overlapping effects (i.e. both can cause burns and premature aging), but UVA rays are mostly responsible for fine lines and dark spots, while UVB rays play the most significant role in producing skin cancers and sunburns.

Everyone under the sun should wear sunscreen, no matter your skin tone. Generally speaking, you’ll need ½ a teaspoon of sunscreen for your face and neck, then one ounce (enough to fill a shot glass!) for your entire body. Since sunscreens naturally break down over time, we recommend reapplying every two hours, and even more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating. Don’t forget—you need to apply your sunscreen 30 minutes prior to sun exposure!

The Different Types of Sunscreen

There are two main types of sunscreen: physical (a.k.a. mineral) and chemical. Both absorb the sun’s UV rays to help prevent skin damage, but physical sunscreen can reflect some UV rays. Neither is necessarily better than the other, they just use different active ingredients. Chemical SPF typically uses actives like avobenzone and homosalate, whereas physical SPF will contain zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide.

In addition to sunscreen, the American Cancer Society also recommends a holistic approach to sun protection like wearing protective clothing (such as a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses), seeking shade (especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.), and avoiding tanning beds, which can cause long-term skin damage and contribute to skin cancer.

The best sunscreen for you is the one you’ll want to wear each and every day. Some sunscreens may blend into your skin tone better, you may like the scent of some more than others, and so on. But rest assured, there is a perfect pick for you. 

Choosing the Right Sunscreen

For Everyday Protection

This unique formula glides onto skin quickly and undetected, so we love it as a primer before makeup or simply as a beautiful glow on a clean face.

For WFH Days

When you spend more time in front of a screen than in the sun, you’ll want to add this hydrating formula to your routine—offering multifaceted protection from UVA/UVB plus blue light (HEV) that comes from the sun and our screens.

For A Streamlined Routine

Adding a daily sun protection into your routine is a no-brainer with this 2-in-1 moisturizer & SPF hybrid. Whether you’re new to a daily SPF or simply trying to streamline your routine, this is a great pick.

For Soothing Breakouts

This oil-free option not only protects against the sun, but actually treats acne and soothes inflammation, while absorbing excess oil to prevent future breakouts.

For Sensitive Skin

Create a matte, protective finish with this ultra-lightweight, soothing physical sunscreen formulated with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

Our Final Note

Sunscreen isn’t just for those summer days outside. UVA rays can penetrate your windows, plus blue light from your screens may cause skin damage—so make sure to wear SPF on cloudy days, rainy days, and the days when you’re staying indoors.