It’s common knowledge that you should wear sunscreen when you go out on a sunny day, right? Even so, it’s not as simple as that, as there are different strengths and types available on the market. It can make choosing the right product more than a little tricky. However, we’re a helpful bunch and here we look at when and where you might need to wear an SPF 50 sunscreen.

First of all, however, it’s important to properly understand how the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) numbering system works. So, let’s have a look at that, to begin with.

Understanding What SPF 50 Sunscreen Offers 

You may or may not already understand that SPF 50 sunscreen is one of the highest-rated sun protection products available. There are some SPF 100 products out there, but not that many. Essentially, an SPF number relates to the amount of time you can spend in the sun without burning – in comparison with not wearing any sunscreen at all. 

SPF 50 allows you to stay out in the sun 50x longer without burning (so long as you reapply every 2 hours), with an SPF 30 protecting you for 30x longer, and so on. However, in terms of actual UV protection, the differences between the products aren’t that big. 

An SPF 30 protects you against 97% of UVB rays, an SPF 50 keeps 98% out and even an SPF 100 only stops 99%. The variance is surprisingly minimal. However, that extra 1% an SPF 50 has over an SPF 30 can make all the difference in certain situations. 

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When Might You Be Great With an SPF 50?

So, there are certain scenarios when you might be better off using an SPF 50 over other, weaker products, in terms of the protection they provide. They include:

• Spending Time in Intense Sunshine – If you’re going to be outside during the times of the day when the sun’s at its strongest (between 10 am and 4 pm), an SPF 50 might be suitable option. They give you that little bit more than you need on these occasions. 
• Spending Time in High Altitude Environments – The higher you go, the more intense UV radiation becomes, as the atmosphere is thinner. So, if you’re going skiing or mountain hiking, it’s another reason to use an SPF 50.
• Spending Time Near Snow, Water or Sand – UV rays can get you twice when you’re near reflective surfaces like water, sand or snow. An SPF 50 becomes a more appropriate option to counteract this reflection. 
• Spending Long Hours Outside – Do your hobbies take you outside for many hours at a time? If so, then it might be possible that you need the extra protection that can safeguard your skin against UV damage – something that should be of interest to construction workers, marathon runners, gardeners and more.

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Choosing an SPF 50 Sunscreen When It’s Needed 

So, as we’ve seen, it’s when the sun is at its strongest that you need the additional protection that’s provided by an SPF 50 product. If you’re hiking, skiing, relaxing at the beach or spending extended hours out in the sun in any way, it should be your go-to option. It’s a choice that will help to give you that extra bit of protection you need when you need it most.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, nor does it replace professional medical expertise or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.

Published by: Holy Minoza