What does the sunscreen index correspond to?

Whether it's SPF 30, SPF 50, or SPF 50+, it can be difficult to understand the information on sunscreens. Does SPF 30 offer less protection than SPF 50? What's the difference? Our experts can help you understand.

What is SPF?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, which measures a product's protection against UVB rays, the harmful rays that penetrate the skin to the epidermis and can cause burns, the famous "sunburn" we all know.

UVA or UVB?

It's important to note that while all sunscreens protect against UVB rays, the same cannot be said for UVA rays. Yet the impacts of these rays are very significant: they penetrate the skin so deeply that they directly impact cellular DNA. UVA rays impact and accelerate skin aging, leading to the premature appearance of wrinkles and pigment spots. To effectively combat the impacts of UVA and UVB rays, choose broad-spectrum sunscreens or those that clearly indicate protection against all types of UV rays.

Solaire

Fresh Water High Protection SPF30

35,00 €

233,33 €/L

inkl. MwSt, zzgl. Versand

Can sunscreen block all the sun's rays?

No, although sunscreens are becoming more and more technical and effective, complete protection is not possible. It is therefore advisable to protect your skin and limit sun exposure as much as possible when the sun is at its zenith (from midday to 4 p.m.) because it is at this time of day that UV rays are the most powerful and therefore the most dangerous for the skin.

What is the difference between the different solar indices?

As we know that no sunscreen can protect the skin from all UV rays, it is important to choose the right SPF for your skin. The difference between SPF 20, 30, 50, or 50+ is the amount of UV rays that these protections let through; the higher the protection, the more protected your skin will be.

SPF 20 will let through approximately 100/20 (5% of the rays that are not filtered) of UVB, SPF 30, 100/30 (3.33% of the rays that are not filtered) and SPF 50 100/50 (2% of the rays are not filtered) but all these indices have a protective action on the skin, the difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50 will only be 1.33 percentage points.

Please note that to be effective, sunscreen must be applied regularly and in sufficient quantity. The European Union recommends using the equivalent of 6 teaspoons to protect an adult's body. Furthermore, in the event of perspiration or contact with water, it is important to remember to reapply the sunscreen to ensure skin protection.

What sun protection for my skin?

If you have particularly fair or sensitive skin, choose an SPF 50+ to minimize the risk of burning. Also, choose a texture that suits your needs. For example, a sunscreen stick with an SPF of 50+ will be ideal for the face and easy to carry, while a sunscreen water, which will also moisturize the skin, will be easy to apply and reapply throughout the day. For summer, it's important to note that Payot sunscreen formulas are water-resistant.

Our recommendation: Remember to double cleanse your face in the evening when using sunscreen to rid pores of residue and reoxygenate the skin.