What do the different SPF numbers in sunscreen stand for?


Question:
Does SPF 40+ sunscreen really offer more protection than SPF 15, or is it just hype?

Answers:
The number in SPF is designed to indicate the number of times your own protection if offers. Therefore, spf 15 is 15 times better than your own skin, and so on. Yes, 45 is much better. Although, studies have shown that 30 is better than 15, but there is not much difference over 30.

Other Answers:
yes it does

Sun Protection Factor, it does block more sun with higher numbers SPF 15 gives you 15 times the protection of no protection


Sun Protection Factor but please realize that when it says SPF30, it is usually referring to UVB rays, not UVA even though it looks like it should cover both at SPF30.

Example: "Coppertone WaterBabies advertises 'Instant Waterproof Protection, UVA/UVB Sunblock lotion 45 SPF' on the bottle as well as the representation that the product provides '45 times your child's natural sun protection', giving parents a false and dangerous sense of security," said Twersky. "The 45 SPF applies only to UVB rays, the product is not waterproof, and it does not actually block the sun. The main element being blocked is the truth." More at http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/03/sunscreen.html




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