SPF 30 vs 50: Which one is better for your skin? Expert dermatologist tips inside

Sun protection isn’t just for beach days. It is a daily skincare essential. Do you know that even when you are sipping your morning tea outdoors or sitting by a sunlit window, your skin gets exposed to harmful UV rays? That is why using the best sunscreen for your face every day is crucial. But this is where it gets confusing-which SPF should you choose? The common dilemma, SPF 30 vs SPF 50, can leave anyone puzzled. Both offer strong protection, but understanding when and why to use them can level up your skincare game. In this article, we break down the difference between SPF 30 and 50, highlight their benefits, and share dermatologist-approved advice for choosing the right SPF based on your skin type and lifestyle.

What is SPF?

SPF or Sun Protection Factor is your skin’s shield against damaging UV rays. It indicates the increased protection offered against the body’s wear and tear in the form of sunburns, cell damage, and skin cancer. “SPF is directly related to the amount of solar exposure. As the SPF value increases, its protective value also increases,” says Dr Niti Gaur, MD, Board Certified Dermatologist and Founder of Citrine Clinic.

What are the benefits of SPF and how does it work?

SPF distinguishes protective sunscreens from those that only act as skin moisturisers. Sun’s rays are primarily made of UVB rays, which cause sunburns and damage DNA. SPF calls out the number corresponding to the additional time your skin would take to show redness due to inflammation if you wore sunscreen as opposed to going bare-skinned. In order to achieve this protection, sunscreens contain chemical filters that absorb ultraviolet radiation or physical filters that reflect or scatter the radiation. SPF also helps keep the value of collagen in one’s skin intact, lessen skin brown spots, and preserve an even complexion and radiance, apart from sunburns. Skin protection using SPF as a shield slows down the onset of ageing. Putting on the best sunscreen for women and men every day is critical for the long-term health of one’s skin.

Dr Niti Gaur sheds light on how higher SPF increases sun protection:

• SPF 30 filters out around 97% of UVB rays

• SPF 50 blocks about 98%

• SPF 80+ offers up to 99%

A few options for you:

SPF 30 vs 50: What is the difference?

“SPF 30 blocks around 97% of UVB radiation while SPF 50 blocks around 98%. It is important to note that no SPF blocks 100% of UVB rays. Therefore, it is crucial to reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours,” says the dermatologist. That 1% might seem small, but it makes a difference in real-life situations. During prolonged sun exposure, especially in yielding environments that added 1% reduction can result in noticeably less radiation penetrating your skin. While both options are good, SPF 50 offers more protection when you consider that most people do not apply enough sunscreen. The added underapplication makes the protection offered much less effective.

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SPF 30 vs 50: Which one provides better protection?

If you spend more time outdoors, SPF 50 provides better protection than SPF 30. People living in countries like India, where sun exposure is intense, numerically, the difference of SPF 30 and SPF 50 in UVB filtration seems to be only slight, but in practical terms, while looking at day-to-day activities, SPF 50 sunscreen can amount to significantly less sun damage. SPF 30 lets 3 percent of UVB rays through and SPF 50 lets 2 percent. Because of that, 1 percent translates to 50 percent more UVB filtration with SPF 30. This is important when the sunscreen is applied unevenly or in a thin layer, which is the case most of the time. Moreover, a study published in the American Academy of Dermatology recommends using the best sunscreen brands that have SPF 30 or higher.

When should I choose: SPF 30 vs 50?

Choosing between SPF 30 and SPF 50 depends on your lifestyle, skin type, and environment. The expert advises using the best sunscreen for oily skin with SPF 30 if you spend most of your day indoors, in shaded areas, or under minimal UV exposure. It provides strong protection when reapplied properly. On the other hand, SPF 50 is ideal for people who spend more time outside. It is also a better choice for those with fair or sensitive skin. 

In real life, most people don’t apply the required amount of sunscreen or reapply it as often as they should. However, it is also recommended to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or immediately after swimming or sweating (The American Academy of Dermatology Association). Opting for SPF 50 can help balance out these errors. Whether you choose SPF 30 or 50, always apply at least two fingers’ worth for your face and neck.

Top SPF 30 sunscreens:

Is SPF 50 necessary for Indian summer?

Yes, Indian summers increase precipitation, but also encapsulate adventures outdoors, ready to be had. “As India’s geographical location exposes us to UV rays almost all year long, higher SPF sunscreens are preferred. SPF 15 or SPF 30 sunscreens, though helpful, may not offer enough protection for Indian climates and skin types,” says the expert. 

In regard to SPF, spending more time under the sun results in higher temperatures and greater chances of UV rays, hence, SPF50 is more useful in India. Pair it with PA+++ or broad-spectrum sunscreen to shield against UVA and UVB rays. Even on cloudy days, you should not skip sunscreen as it can penetrate the clouds and damage your skin (The American Academy of Dermatology Association).

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Is higher SPF always better?

Although SPF 50 competes better than SPF 30, there is not much of a difference in SPF 70, SPF 100 or any value above SPF 50, as there is little to no difference in the UVB filters. “Higher SPF does not always mean better protection,” adds the expert. People who have sensitive skin, burn more easily, or live in very sunny regions may find higher SPFs useful. Don’t forget, SPF is used for measuring protection against UVB radiation only. It is important to note that the SPF number does not signify the level of protection against UVA rays, which is the higher level of radiation that goes deeper into the skin, causing aging and skin cancer.

Skin type matters: How to choose the right SPF?

Skin type plays an important role when choosing the best sunscreen. “Darker skin has more melanin, which naturally protects against sunburn and can use a lower SPF, while pale skin has less melanin and needs a higher SPF. Oily or combination skin should use lightweight, gel-based sunscreens, while dry or sensitive skin should use fragrance-free cream or lotion-based sunscreens,” recommends the dermatologist. Always opt for the best sunscreen for all skin types that contains soothing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or ceramides.

Top SPF 50 sunscreen:

Texture, finish, and application: Understanding what to expect

Feeling the texture of the sunscreen matters too. If it is greasy or has a white cast, you would not want to reapply. Sunscreens come in varying finishes, which can be dewy, matte, or natural. “A dewy finish sunscreen contains hyaluronic acid, glycerin and natural oils, which makes it best for dry or dehydrated skin as it adds a glow while sealing moisture underneath,” says the expert. On the oily and acne-prone skin, matte-finish sunscreens are the best option. They use oil-absorbing ingredients like silica and kaolin clay, which help control shine and decrease greasiness throughout the day. Water-based formulas are ideal for sensitive or combination skin types as they feel light and non-sticky. On the other hand, cream formulas are thicker and better for dry or mature skin.

What do dermatologists recommend?

Understanding SPF and how it works is essential for making informed choices when it comes to protecting our skin from the damaging effects of the sun. However, even with high SPF, no sunscreen lasts forever, especially when exposed to sweat, water, or rubbing. It is recommended to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF of at least 30 or above, and reapply it every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Around 2 fingers’ worth of sunscreen is required to cover the entire face and neck.

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SPF 30 vs SPF 50: Which one wins?

Both SPF 30 and SPF 50 are good options for sun protection, and neither is inherently “better” without considering your skin type, lifestyle, and application habits. SPF 50 offers marginally better protection and is ideal for extended outdoor exposure or error-prone applications. SPF 30 is still a solid choice for indoor days or minimal sun contact. Make sure your sunscreen is broad-spectrum to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. And remember, sunscreen is just one part of sun safety; combine it with protective clothing, hats, sunglasses, and shade when possible. Ultimately, the best sunscreen is the one you will consistently use.

Best sunscreen sticks and sprays:

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