Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 70, 3 Ounce

Product Information

SPFs are rated on a scale of 2 to 50+ based on the level of protection they offer, with 50+ offering the strongest form of UVB protection. Do not spend any longer in the sun than you would without sunscreen. What are the SPF and star rating? Take extra care to protect babies and children. Their skin is much more sensitive than adult skin, and damage caused by repeated exposure to sunlight could lead to skin cancer developing in later life.

SPF 30 or higher: "Always look for a sun protection factor of at least SPF 30," says Dr. Yadav. The AAD also suggests SPF 30 for the best protection. For even more peace of mind, the GH Beauty Lab recommends looking for SPF 50.Sunscreen needs to be reapplied liberally and frequently, and according to the manufacturer's instructions. Under ideal conditions (like in a laboratory), a sunscreen with higher SPF protection and broad-spectrum coverage offers more protection against sunburn, UVA damage and DNA damage than comparable products with lower SPF values.

The sun protection factor, or SPF, is a measure of the amount of ultraviolet B radiation (UVB) protection. These two types of filter work in different ways to shield the skin from UV rays, as Dr. Sophie Shotter explains. "Chemical filters absorb the rays. Think of these filters as little sponges that collect the rays, stopping them from entering your skin and damaging it. Mineral filters, often referred to as ‘physical filters’, deflect the rays. Think of them as a bat, hitting them away before they can enter the skin." The study, published online April 1 in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, cites the use of sunscreen with a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 70.

There are two types of sun protection filters - chemical filters and physical filters,” advises dermatologist Dr Emma Wedgeworth. Chemical filters absorb UV rays like a sponge, thereby reducing the risk of cellular damage. Physical filters act to reflect and scatter UV. UVB rays cause sunburn and play a key role in developing skin cancer. A sunscreen’s SPF number refers mainly to the amount of UVB protection it provides. The SPF number tells you how long the sun’s UV radiation would take to redden your skin when using the product exactly as directed versus the amount of time without any sunscreen. So ideally, with SPF 30 it would take you 30 times longer to burn than if you weren’t wearing sunscreen.

Broad spectrum coverage: The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends sunscreen products that provide broad spectrum coverage, meaning that it includes both UVA and UVB protection, says Dr. Camp. UVA is responsible for aging the skin and UVB is responsible for burning the skin, so it's safe to say you'll want to be protected from both! The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for any extended outdoor activity. Regardless of the SPF, though, it’s important to apply one ounce (two tablespoons) 30 minutes before going outside and reapply it every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. Beyond Sunscreen Moreover, there's plenty of confusion surrounding UVA and UVB rays, which both come from the sun, yet don't pose the same threat to your skin. UVA rays have a longer wavelength, meaning they penetrate further into the skin's dermis, leading to premature ageing. UVB rays, with a shorter wavelength, hit the surface of the skin and can cause burning. To be amply protected in the sun, you need a broad-spectrum suncream, which will shield from both wavelengths.Avoid getting caught out by sunburn. Use shade, clothing and a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect yourself. Seek medical help if you feel unwell or the skin swells badly or blisters. Stay out of the sun until all signs of redness have gone.