Discover the Strongest Sunscreen for Maximum Protection

Understanding SPF and Sunscreen Strength

What is SPF?

Sun Protection Factor, or SPF as we commonly know it, is a measure of how well a sunscreen can protect your skin from harmful UVB rays. These are the rays that cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer. The higher the SPF, the more protection it offers. But remember, no sunscreen can block 100% of UVB rays.

Does high SPF matter?

Yes, it does! A higher SPF provides more protection against UVB rays. For instance, SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. However, it’s important to note that no sunscreen, regardless of strength, should be expected to stay effective longer than two hours without reapplication.

SPF 30 vs SPF 60

SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 60 blocks about 98%. So, while SPF 60 does offer more protection, the difference is not huge. The key is to apply enough sunscreen and to reapply it every two hours or immediately after sweating or swimming.

Is SPF 70 too much?

No, SPF 70 is not too much, especially if you have fair skin or are at a high risk for skin cancer. It blocks about 98.5% of UVB rays. However, regardless of the SPF, it’s crucial to apply enough sunscreen (about a shot glass full for your body) and to reapply it every two hours or immediately after sweating or swimming.

Does SPF 100 work?

Yes, SPF 100 does work. It blocks about 99% of UVB rays. However, it’s important to understand that the difference between SPF 50 and SPF 100 is not double the protection. While SPF 50 blocks about 98% of UVB rays, SPF 100 blocks 99%. So, the increase in protection is minimal, but it can still be significant for people with very fair skin or a history of skin cancer.

SPF 200 and SPF 150 Sunscreens

I personally haven’t seen sunscreens with an SPF of 200 or 150 available. Even if you could buy them, however, it’s important to note that the increase in UVB protection is minimal when you go above SPF 50. For instance, while SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB rays, SPF 100 blocks 99%, and SPF 200 or 150 would block slightly more, but not 100%. So, the extra cost or potential skin irritation would never be worth the minimal increase in protection.

What is a good SPF for sunscreen?

Dermatologists generally recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which blocks 97 percent of the sun’s UVB rays. Higher-number SPFs block slightly more of the sun’s UVB rays, but no sunscreen can block 100 percent of the sun’s UVB rays. So, it’s also important to seek shade and wear protective clothing.

How high SPF should you use for your face?

Dermatologists generally recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 for your face, which blocks 97% of UVB rays. However, if you have fair skin, a history of skin cancer, or are going to be in the sun for an extended period, you may want to use a higher SPF, like 50 or even 70.

Can you tan with SPF 100?

Yes, you can still tan with SPF 100. No sunscreen can block 100% of the sun’s rays, so some tanning can still occur. However, a tan is a sign of skin damage, so it’s best to protect your skin with a high SPF sunscreen and other sun protection measures like wearing protective clothing and seeking shade.

Best Strong Sunscreen Products

What is the highest SPF sunscreen you can buy?

The highest SPF sunscreen you can buy is SPF 100. Quite a few brands offer sunscreens with an SPF of 100. These sunscreens are particularly beneficial for those who have a high risk of skin cancer or have very fair skin that burns easily.

Best SPF 100 Sunscreen for Face

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Body & Face Sunscreen Lotion Broad... @ Amazon

One of the best high SPF sunscreens for the face is the:

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Body & Face Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 100

This sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection with an SPF of 100, making it one of the strongest sunscreens on the market. It’s a favorite among dermatologists for its fast-absorbing, non-greasy formula that’s suitable for all skin types. It’s also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a great option for beach days or outdoor activities.

Key (active) ingredients: Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Oxybenzone.

What are the best strong sunscreens to buy on Amazon?

These are all very good options for SPF 70 and above:

COOLA Organic Sunscreen SPF 70 Sunblock Spray, Dermatologist Tested Skin Care... @ Amazon

COOLA Organic Sunscreen SPF 70

COOLA’s Organic Sunscreen offers an SPF of 70, providing high-level protection against harmful UV rays. It’s made with over 70% certified organic ingredients, making it a great choice for those seeking a more natural sunscreen option. It’s also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and has a lightweight, non-greasy formula that feels comfortable on the skin.

Key (active) ingredients: Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene.

Sale Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen SPF 70+, Oil-Free Facial Sunscreen Lotion with... @ Amazon

Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen SPF 70+

Neutrogena’s Sport Face Sunscreen is specifically designed for active lifestyles. With an SPF of 70+, it provides superior protection against UV rays during intense outdoor activities. It’s also sweat and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and has a lightweight, non-greasy formula that won’t clog pores, making it ideal for those with oily or acne-prone skin.

Key (active) ingredients: Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Oxybenzone.

Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen SPF 100 Lotion, Water Resistant Sunscreen, Body... @ Amazon

Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen SPF 100 Lotion, Water Resistant Sunscreen

Coppertone’s SPORT Sunscreen offers an impressive SPF 100, providing superior protection against harmful UV rays. It’s designed to stay on strong when you sweat, making it ideal for sports and outdoor activities. It’s also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and has a lightweight, non-greasy formula that won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.

Key (active) ingredients: Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Oxybenzone.

Best strong sunscreen for sensitive skin

La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Correct Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 70, Daily... @ Amazon

La Roche Posay Anthelios UV Correct Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 70

This sunscreen from La Roche Posay not only offers broad-spectrum SPF 70 protection but also acts as a daily moisturizer. It’s formulated with antioxidants to help protect against skin-damaging free radicals. It’s also non-comedogenic, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Key (active) ingredients: Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene.

For sensitive skin, look for sunscreens that are free of fragrances and oils, which can irritate the skin. Mineral sunscreens, like those containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are often a good choice as they are less likely to cause skin reactions.

Sun Bum Original SPF 70 Sunscreen Lotion | Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act... @ Amazon

Sun Bum Original SPF 70 Sunscreen Lotion

Sun Bum’s Original SPF 70 Sunscreen Lotion provides broad-spectrum protection and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It’s enriched with Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps to neutralize free radicals, which are the main cause of premature skin aging. It’s also vegan and reef-friendly, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

Key (active) ingredients: Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene.

Best strong sunscreen for oily skin

If you have oily skin, you’ll want a sunscreen that’s oil-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores. The La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60 is a great choice. It has a dry touch texture and is designed to absorb pore-clogging oil, even in heat and humidity.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60, Oil Free Face... @ Amazon

Global SPF Standards and Regulations

SPF Standards Around the World

It’s important to note that SPF standards are not the same worldwide. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates sunscreens and has approved the use of sunscreens with an SPF up to 100+. However, in other parts of the world, the regulations can be different. For instance, in the European Union, the highest SPF claim allowed on sunscreen labels is SPF 50+. This is because the European Commission believes that higher SPF values can give consumers a false sense of security, leading them to spend more time in the sun than they should.

High SPF Sunscreens and Global Regulations

In some countries, very high SPF sunscreens are even banned. Australia, for example, has capped the maximum SPF at 50. The rationale behind this is similar to that of the European Union: to prevent consumers from assuming they are getting almost twice the protection from an SPF 100 sunscreen compared to an SPF 50 sunscreen, which is not the case.

Sunscreen Classification in Asia

In Asia, sunscreens are often classified differently than in the West. Instead of SPF, many Asian countries use the PA system to measure UVA protection. The PA system ranges from PA+ to PA++++, with PA++++ offering the highest level of UVA protection. However, SPF is still used to measure UVB protection. It’s also worth noting that Asian sunscreens often focus on additional skin benefits, such as brightening or anti-aging properties, and they often have lighter, more wearable formulas compared to their Western counterparts.

How to Apply Sunscreen

How to apply sunscreen for maximum protection

To get the maximum protection from your sunscreen, apply it generously to all exposed skin 15 minutes before going outside. Most adults need about 1 ounce — enough to fill a shot glass — to fully cover their body. Don’t forget to cover the tops of your feet, your neck, your ears, and the top of your head. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating.

How often should you reapply sunscreen?

You should reapply sunscreen at least every two hours. However, if you’re swimming or sweating, you should reapply immediately after drying off. Also, remember that no sunscreen is completely waterproof, and SPF can be misleading when it comes to water and sweat resistance. So, even if you’re using a high SPF sunscreen, you still need to reapply it regularly.

FAQs

What is the strongest sunscreen?

The “strength” of a sunscreen can be measured by its SPF, or Sun Protection Factor. The highest SPF currently available in most markets is SPF 100.

Is SPF 100 stronger than SPF 50?

Yes, SPF 100 is stronger than SPF 50 in terms of the level of protection it offers. SPF 100 blocks 99% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB rays.

Which is the best sunscreen in the world?

The “best” sunscreen can vary depending on individual needs and skin types. However, consistently high-rated sunscreens include La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60 and Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 100.

Is SPF 70 better than SPF 50?

SPF 70 provides slightly more protection against UVB rays than SPF 50. SPF 70 blocks about 98.5% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks 98%. However, the key to effective sun protection is not just high SPF but also proper application and reapplication.

Can I use SPF 100 on my face?

Yes, you can use SPF 100 on your face. It’s particularly beneficial for those with very fair skin or a high risk of skin cancer. However, it’s important to choose a sunscreen that’s oil-free and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores.