Summer or Winter, no matter the weather, sunscreen is a must every single day of the year. To protect your skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun it is recommended to choose a sunscreen with the right amount of SPF. But how much SPF do you actually need?

What is SPF?

SPF or Sun Protection Factor is an indication of the time your sunscreen can shield your skin from getting sunburnt as compared to the time it takes for your skin to burn without any protection. For instance, if it takes 20 minutes for your skin to turn red when exposed to the sun without using any sunscreen, applying sunscreen with SPF 30 means protecting your skin for 30 times longer, that is for 30 X 20 = 600 minutes.

However, SPF only measures protection from exposure to UVB radiation. UVB radiation is highest around noon and generally much less during cloudy days and in the shade. UVB rays don’t penetrate glass windows. Sun protection science continues to evolve and we must keep a watch on new information as it becomes available. 

How much SPF do you actually need? 

Always confused about whether you should choose SPF 30 or SPF 50? Let us clear your confusion! Higher SPF value means higher level of protection but as the SPF value increases, the increase in the level of protection is minimal. In other words, SPF 30 shields your skin from 97% of the UVB rays while SPF 50 will filter out approximately 98% of UVB rays.

Let us also talk about other factors that influence your SPF requirement.

• Sun Exposure

For daily use choose a sunscreen with moderately high UVB protection like SPF 30 along with high UVA (PA) rating. If being exposed to bright midday sunlight (afternoon at the beach), then choose a sunscreen with SPF 50 without compromising on UVA protection.

• Skin Type

Consider a higher SPF level for sensitive skin that is prone to irritation.

• Medical Conditions

Some medical conditions might require you to be extra careful and ensure added protection from sun damage. In such cases, it is best to consult your dermatologist and opt for higher SPF levels such as SPF 50 to minimize the risks. 

• Application

The amount and number of times you apply sunscreen also plays a role in deciding how much SPF you really need. With proper application and timely re application, an SPF 30 will meet your needs.

There is a common misconception that people with dark skin can skip sunscreen. This is not true. You are at the risk of sun damage, various skin conditions and premature aging, no matter the skin tone. Although, early signs of sun damage are more visible on light skin and chances are that you might miss the same if you have dark complexion. This is because dark skin tones have higher levels of melanin which provides some protection from getting burnt but it does not completely prevent it - the UV rays can still penetrate the skin and cause damage. So irrespective of your skin tone, you should ensure sun protection and sunscreen with SPF 30 PA+++ should be everyone's best friend! To know more about SPF for dark skin tones, read this blog.

Sunscreen typically protects you from sun damage for up to 2 hours, but its efficacy depends on its application, sun exposure, skin type, exposure to water, and SPF levels. For instance, if you spend prolonged hours in the sun, you should apply sunscreen every two hours, but if you spend your day indoors, it can last longer before a reapplication is needed.

Similarly, when using a water resistant sunscreen, you will have to re apply it after 40 to 80 minutes if you go swimming or are sweating. For sensitive skin, when applying less sunscreen with low level of SPF than what is commonly recommended, you would still require frequent re application for the right results.

Now that we've cleared the air on how much SPF you actually need, let us introduce you to Sandiva Skincare's One and Done Tinted Sunblock - the answer to all your sun protection needs. A broad spectrum SPF 35+ sunscreen with the highest PA rating of PA++++. The SPF level shields your skin against the UVB rays and the PA level provides maximum protection against UVA rays, reducing the signs of aging. A lightweight lotion with a soft mousse-like texture, this sunscreen forms a protective physical barrier against sun damage. Made from the goodness of antibacterial and antimicrobial Sandalwood, the One and Done tinted Sunblock calms inflammation caused by sun exposure. Its special formula prevents white cast and blends into the skin seamlessly as a one-step quick protection-and-light makeup routine in the morning.

One & Done Tinted Sunblock is mineral based and therefore does not contain any of the sunscreen chemicals officially listed as harmful to reefs. The presence of active filters like 24% zinc oxide acts as a physical shield to protect the skin from UV radiation making it suitable for sensitive skin. It also has star ingredients such as sandalwood and iron oxides, which together also protect your skin from blue light emitted from your computer and phone screens. Before applying, we recommend the following steps -

1. Cleanse your skin with Sandiva's Unsoap Bathing Bar - a gentle cleanser for face and body
2. Then take a coin sized dollop of sunscreen and apply it all over your face and neck
3. Gently massage it with your fingers until it blends completely into your skin

The One and Done Tinted Sunblock is available in 4 different shades that blend in beautifully with most Indian skin tones. It can also act as a BB cream or a light foundation to give you a base for your make-up!

Reapplication can be done as per your need and sun exposure. With Sandiva’s unique offering, SPF Top-Up Loose Powder, on-the-go reapplication has become hassle-free. With Sandiva’s products, you can no longer miss loading up on SPF. So what are you waiting for? Head to the website, and stock up on all these essentials now!

Read our blog on Simplifying SPF truths, where we talk more facts about SPF.