What SPF means and how to choose the right one for your skin
Every time you use sunscreen, you see the acronym SPF followed by a number: 15, 30, 50, 50+. But do you really know what SPF means and what that number means for your skin?? Knowing the answer can mean the difference between real protection and a false sense of security..
What does SPF mean?
SPF is the acronym for Sun Protection Factor, or in Spanish, Sun protection factor. It is an index that measures the ability of a product to filter UVB radiation., responsible for sunburn and one of the main risk factors for skin cancer.
An SPF 30 does not mean twice the protection of an SPF 15. The relationship is logarithmic: SPF 15 blocks the 93 % of UVB, SPF 30 blocks the 97 % y SPF 50 blocks the 98 %.
What SPF number do you need??
The choice of SPF depends on your phototype (natural skin tone), exposure time and environmental conditions. This table helps you orient yourself:
| SPF | Protection | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 15 | Baja | Daily indoor use, very dark skin |
| 30 | Media | Daily outdoor activity, medium skins |
| 50 | Alta | Summer, playa, mountain, light or sensitive skin |
| 50+ | Very high | Very sensitive skin, kids, post-treatments |
What SPF doesn't tell you
SPF only measures protection against UVB rays.. For complete protection, The product must also indicate protection against UVA, identified with the UVA seal in a circle. Without this seal, your skin can age prematurely even if you don't burn.
How to apply it correctly so that SPF really works
- Apply the protector 20 minutes before sun exposure.
- Use enough amount: for the body, some 2 mg per cm² of skin (about a teaspoon for the face).
- Reapply every two hours and always after bathing or sweating.
- Don't forget the neck, the ears, the lips and the back of the feet.
The range of sun protection from Instituto Español
On Instituto Español We have formulated our protectors to offer effective protection with light and pleasant to the touch textures. Available in SPF 30, 50 and 50+, They are suitable for the whole family and are designed for everyday life in Spain..
