Chapter 1 of 4 · Fundamentals
SPF selection
SPF levels and protection percentages
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Educational content from recorded physician discussions — not medical advice. Talk to your (or your child's) care team about your situation.
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What the experts said
SPF 30 provides 95% protection against damaging rays that lead to increased skin cancer risk.
SPF 15 is not adequate protection.
SPF 50 or 80 provides 98% protection.
Each 10 SPF increment provides approximately 1% additional protection.
Physical sunblocks contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as active ingredients.
Physical sunblocks have a whitish tint.
Blue Neutrogena gel sunscreen is beneficial for acne-prone skin.
Ceramides in sunscreen provide hydration to skin.
Dr. Ponsky applies SPF daily as part of her routine before foundation.
There are two types of sunblocks: physical and chemical.
Oxybenzone and tin oxidate are chemical sunblock ingredients that should be avoided.
Most drugstore sunblocks currently do not contain oxybenzone or tin oxidate.
Chemical sunblocks are absorbed into skin and provide protection once the sun hits the skin.
Physical sunblocks sit on top of skin and block UV rays.
Once a physical sunblock washes off, there is no protection remaining.
Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours during direct sun exposure such as beach or boat activities.
Physical sunblocks lose effectiveness when sweated off.
Waterproof/sweatproof sunscreens are rated for 80 minutes of water resistance.
Sunscreen should be applied before going outside.
Natural sunscreens can work if they contain key protective ingredients like zinc or titanium, but evidence for all natural formulations is incomplete.