Sun Safety 2024: Choosing the Right SPF and Protecting Your Skin

Coco
Jul 6, 2024
2 min read

July marks the sunny midpoint of the year — a perfect time to revisit how to protect your skin from one of its biggest adversaries: UV damage. While dermatologists often recommend SPF over 40 or 50 for extended sun exposure, the latest guidance confirms that a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is both effective and sufficient for most daily routines. Dermatology Times+5Glamour+5The Cut

Why SPF 30 Is Still the Sweet Spot

SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 only increases that to around 98%. Real Simple+2The Sun+2 Going higher doesn’t significantly boost protection — especially if you factor in how sunscreen is applied in real life. EWG+11Real Simple+11The Sun+11

Daily Defense vs. Extended Sun Days

Everyday/commute: SPF 30 broad-spectrum protects your face and hands, even through windows and shade. The Skin Cancer Foundation American Medical Association
Beach, sports, or midday outdoors: Opt for SPF 50+ and remember to reapply every two hours. HealthCentral+12The Skin Cancer Foundation+12Doctor Rogers Skin Care+12

Not Just About the Numbers — Application Is Key

What matters more than the SPF number is how you apply it:

Use enough sunscreen — about a shot glass worth for the face and body combined EWG+15U.S. Food and Drug Administration+15The Sun+15
Don’t rely on makeup with SPF alone. Reapply as needed with a powder or spray (and avoid sprayed-on sunscreens that aren’t rubbed in). The Cut American Medical Association

The Full Protection Kit

Alongside sunscreen, remember to:

Wear a wide-brimmed hat
Add UV-protective clothing and sunglasses.
Seek shade when possible — especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. U.S. Food and Drug Administration+1

In 2024, sun protection is about wise, consistent choices rather than chasing the highest SPF available. Start with SPF 30 daily, add layers of protection, and let your skin glow healthily under the summer sun.

Nurture Your Skin, and Nurture Your Soul

With love and radiant vibes,

Coco – Skincare Specialist, Product Formulator, and Self-Care Advocate