Protect Your Skin with SPF Sunscreen
Planning your summer vacation? Before you pack your bags, let’s talk about SPF.
You have seen it on every sunscreen bottle, but what does the number really mean? SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it measures how long your skin is protected from UVB rays, the ones responsible for sunburn, compared to unprotected skin. The number tells you the level of protection.
For example, SPF 30 means it would take 30 times longer for your skin to start burning than if you weren’t wearing sunscreen. In general:
• SPF 15 blocks about 93% of UVB rays
• SPF 30 blocks about 97%
• SPF 50 blocks about 98%
When choosing SPF, dermatologists recommend a minimum of SPF 30 for daily use. For extended sun exposure—like at the beach—SPF 50 provides slightly more protection (about 98%) and is ideal for fair or sensitive skin, or for people prone to burning.
Remember: higher SPF doesn’t mean you can skip reapplying. Coverage, proper application, and broad-spectrum protection are just as important as the number on the bottle. SPF only measures UVB protection. To protect against UVA rays, which contribute to premature aging and skin damage, always choose broad-spectrum sunscreens.
Sunscreens come in two main types:
• Chemical: absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat; usually lightweight and invisible.
• Mineral: sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays; often contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, ideal for sensitive or post-treatment skin.
At Esteem Medical Esthetics, we carry medical-grade SPF from SkinCeuticals®, Colorescience®, and Functionalab to protect and support your skin year-round. Ask one of our experts to help you find the SPF that works best for your skin type.