One of the most common questions when choosing a sunscreen is: What SPF is best for me?

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well a sunscreen protects your skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays—specifically UVB, the kind that causes sunburn. As a general guideline, SPF 30 means it would take about 30 times longer for your skin to redden than if you weren’t wearing any sunscreen.

However, it’s important to know that higher SPF values don’t offer dramatically better protection. For example, SPF 60 doesn’t provide twice the protection of SPF 30. In fact, SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks roughly 98%, and SPF 60 about 98.3%. The increase is marginal, but not proportional to the SPF. 

That said, dermatologists typically recommend using SPF 30 or higher for daily use. If you have fair skin, a history of skin cancer, or spend extended time outdoors, go for SPF 50 or more.

No matter the SPF, reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating.

Bottom line? The best SPF is the one you’ll wear consistently—so find one you like, and make it part of your daily routine!