What SPF Should I Use On My Face?

The skin on your face is delicate, and it’s important to protect it from the sun’s harmful rays. SPF sunscreen can help block out UV rays and prevent sun damage.  Today, UV Skinz goes over what SPF level is best. 
Sunscreen bottle with SPF numbers

The skin on your face is delicate, and it’s important to protect it from the sun’s harmful rays. SPF sunscreen can help block out UV rays and prevent sun damage. Additionally, wearing sunscreen can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

While you may be diligent about applying sunscreen to your body, it is just as important to apply it to your face. When applied properly, sunscreen can keep your skin looking young and healthy. But how much SPF should you use on your face? That’s a great question, and we’re here to share the most important details about how much SPF for face protection is the best.

What Is SPF in Sunscreen?

SPF stands for sun protection factor and refers to how much protection your sunscreen provides against the sun’s harmful UVB rays.

UVB rays cause sunburn, so the more protection–and the higher number of SPF–the better. While sunscreen does not block all UV rays, it does help prevent most rays from getting through to your skin. However, it’s important to take additional measures to keep your face from being exposed to the sun’s harmful rays. This includes wearing sun hats and spending time in the shade while outdoors.

What SPF Should You Use on Your Face?

If you’re wondering, “What SPF should I use on my face?” then you’re in the right place. At UV Skinz®, we are experts on all things sun protection. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, everyone should use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 for optimal face protection.

Is Higher SPF Really Better for Your Face?

While SPF 30 sunscreen is the minimum recommended amount, there are higher-rated sunscreens. So, you might be wondering, “Which SPF is best for me?” Higher SPF is better for your face if you're spending a lot of time in the sun during peak sun hoursHere are a few factors to consider when deciding how much SPF for face protection you may need:

1. Time in the Sun

Do you plan on spending a full day in the sun, or are you simply running a few errands in the morning? The amount of time you spend in the sun can help determine how much SPF for face protection you need. The longer you spend outdoors, the more protection you should have on your face.

2. Time of Day

The strength of UV rays changes throughout the day. Between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, UV rays are at their strongest, which means they can cause the most damage to your skin. If you plan on spending time outdoors in the middle of the day, a stronger SPF sunscreen is ideal.

3. Season of the Year

Knowing the answer to the question, of how much SPF you need to protect your face, also depends on the season. The strength of UV rays changes depending on the time of year, with the spring and summer months seeing harsher UV rays than fall and winter.

4. Cloud Covering

How much SPF do you need for your face if it’s cloudy outside? SPF 30–the recommendation doesn’t change even with a cloud covering because harmful UV rays can still make it to your face on a cloudy day.

5. Sun Reflection

UV rays can bounce off water, so if you’re spending time poolside, at the beach, or on the lake, you may want to put on sunscreen with SPF 30 or above for greater protection.

How Much SPF Do You Need for Lips?

When it comes to sun protection, most people only think about using sunscreen on their face and body. However, it’s equally important to protect your lips from the sun’s harmful rays. The skin on your lips is thin and delicate, and it can easily be burned by the sun.

The answer to the questions, how much SPF do you need for lips and what SPF do you need for your face, is the same: SPF 30. But that doesn’t mean you have to rub awful-tasting body sunscreen on your lips to protect them. At UV Skinz, we have a large selection of face and lip sunscreen that includes lip balm and lipstick with high SPF ratings.

So, How Much SPF Do You Need for Face and Lip Protection?

The magic number is 30–SPF 30 or higher is essential for face and lip protection while spending time in the sun. You should also reapply it frequently, especially if you are swimming or sweating. By using SPF 30+ sunscreen, you can simultaneously help prevent your face from getting sunburnt and protect your lips while you’re in the sun.

Are you looking for more sun protection? Shop our entire selection of sun protective clothing and accessories today!