SPF Explained: Because Sun Damage Isn't a Vibe
- Camila Karalyte
- May 28
- 10 min read
Sun damage? We don't know her. Staying protected from the sun is what Hot Girl Summer is all about.
Sun damage is a major no-go. We're all about getting that glowy, healthy looking skin but the sun's harmful rays can actually reverse everything we're trying to achieve. Keeping your skin protected is the ultimate secret to unlocking that radiant Hot Girl Summer look – and, like, actually keeping your skin healthy long-term.
We're breaking down everything you need to know about SPF. Because, you might think you know everything, but it's not quite as simple as "sun's out, sunscreen on" — although it is also that. Think of it as your crash course in sun safety, minus the boring lectures.
We'll cover the basics: what SPF actually is (spoiler alert: it's your skin's BFF), when you absolutely need to slather it on (hint: pretty much always), and the low-down on all the different types out there.
We'll also recommend some of the top SPF products that students are purchasing using a Student Beans discount, because students deserve skin saviours at student-friendly prices. From lightweight formulas that won't clog your pores to tinted options that give you that effortless filter IRL, we've got you covered (literally!). So ditch the sunburn fear and get ready to glow the healthy way.
In this guide:
What is SPF?
What does SPF stand for?
Different types of SPF
When to use SPF
Difference between SPF 30 and 50
When to use SPF
Should you wear SPF everyday?
How to apply SPF
SPF before or after moisturiser?
Misconceptions about SPF
Sun aftercare
Top-selling SPF products
What is SPF?
Simply put, SPF is sun cream, sun lotion, sunscreen, sunblock, or whatever you want to call it. It's the stuff you should be slathering on your skin every day to give you protection from the sun's harmful UV (Ultra Violet) rays.
UV rays can cause skin damage when exposed to it over time by damaging the fibres called elastin. When these break down, your skin can sag and lose its elasticity, take longer to heal, and can lead to skin cancer in the worst cases.
The sun throws two types of UV rays our way: UVA and UVB. They're both trouble, but in different ways.
UVA rays go deep, hitting the thickest layer of your skin. They're the ones mainly responsible for aging, giving you wrinkles, age spots, and making your skin feel like leather. Fun fact: UVA rays go right through glass, so you're not safe just because you're inside or in your car. They also give you a tan, by making your skin produce more melanin. Even though we used to think they didn't cause sunburn, they definitely cause long-term damage and up your chances of getting skin cancer.
UVB rays mainly hit the top layer of your skin. These guys are the reason you get sunburned — that red, painful burn you get after too much sun. They can also cause blisters and are a big player in skin cancer, especially the really bad kind, melanoma. Unlike UVA, UVB rays don't go through glass. They're also stronger at certain times — like midday, summer, and when you're up high.
Think of SPF as sunglasses for the skin.
What does SPF stand for?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. SPF refers to the number you see on the bottle e.g. SPF 15, SPF 30.
The higher the number, the more protection against UV rays. SPF indicates UVB ray protection, which prevents sunburn. For example, SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB, and SPF 50 blocks about 98%. But remember, no sunscreen blocks all of it.
Different types of SPF
There are many different types of SPF, including the protection levels and the type of sunscreen it is. The most common SPF types are:
Medium protection: SPF 15, 20, 25 (blocks approximately 93% of UVB rays)
High protection: SPF 30, 40, 50 (blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays)
Very high protection: SPF 50+ (blocks approximately 98% of UVB rays)
Sunscreens come in two main types: mineral (also known as physical) and chemical. They protect your skin in slightly different ways.
Mineral sunscreen forms a physical barrier on your skin to block and scatter harmful UV rays.
Chemical sunscreen acts like a sponge, absorbing harmful rays before they can damage your skin.
What SPF should I use?
So, for everyday use, SPF 30 sunscreen is a good bet — it blocks a lot of those nasty UVB rays. But, if you're planning on being outside for ages, especially somewhere sunny like up in the mountains or near the equator, or if you have fair skin that burns easily, bump it up to SPF 50. It's like extra armour against the sun.
Either way, slapping on that sunscreen properly and regularly is key to staying protected.
Difference between SPF 30 and 50
The difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50 is the amount of protection they offer.
SPF 30 filters out approximately 97% of UVB rays, allowing only 3% of the rays to hit the skin. SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB rays, letting only about 2% touch the skin.
The difference may be small, but every little helps. When in doubt, opt for the higher SPF option to give you more peace of mind.
When to use SPF
Short answer: All. The. Time.
Rain, sun, snow, indoors, outdoors, sitting at the computer — sunscreen should really be worn everyday. UV rays still exist in cloudy skies and rainy days, so wearing sunscreen with a high SPF will help increase your skin's protection.
If you're sweating, or swimming, make sure to reapply sunscreen every two hours or so. Don't forget your neck, too! And anywhere else that isn't covered (nape of the neck especially!).
Should you wear SPF everyday?
It is highly recommended that you wear SPF daily. Even if you're sitting indoors, the UV rays can penetrate glass. The blue light from screens like mobiles and computers can also damage your skin, so remote workers slather that protection on ASAP.
How to apply SPF
Applying SPF is super simple — you just have to remember to do it regularly.
Aim for roughly 6-8 teaspoons of lotion for the entire body, and between 1-2 teaspoons for the face. Make sure you cover your ears and up to your hairline, too.
If you don't put enough sun lotion on, the protection is reduced (even with a high SPF lotion). If you have thinning hair or exposed scalp, make sure you apply lotion to these areas as well, or wear a hat for protection.
Reapply sun lotion after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. And reapply every 2 hours to make sure your skin is protected consistently.
SPF before or after moisturiser?
Whether you have a multi-step skin care routine or just wash and go, sunscreen should always be applied last. Apply all your serums and moisturisers first, then layer sunscreen on top to create an effective barrier against the sun.
If you're wearing makeup, apply sunscreen as the final step in your skincare routine and then apply your makeup. Let the sunscreen absorb into your skin first though, so wait at least a few minutes before you go in with your foundation.
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Some makeup products have added SPF in them, so this will add to your protection levels. However, don't rely solely on SPF makeup products, you still need an actual sun lotion for maximum protection.
Misconceptions about SPF
There's a lot of myths and truths out there about everything, and SPF is no different.
Can you still tan with SPF 50?
There's no sunscreen that can block absolutely 100% of UV rays, meaning that many SPF lotions will still enable tanning.
You can still tan with an SPF 50 sun lotion, but expect it to be gradual while still protecting your skin from sunburn. And make sure you keep reapplying even whilst trying to get a tan — no tan is worth the risk!
Does SPF stop tanning?
SPF doesn't stop tanning but it does reduce it. If you're after tanned skin, please still wear a high SPF sunscreen. Wearing a higher SPF lotion will take longer for a tan to appear, but will protect your skin the most.
Can black people get sunburn?
Most people can get sunburn, even those with darker skin — no one is exempt from the sun's harmful UV rays. While black people might be less likely to burn over fairer skin, the risk of becoming sunburnt is still there — especially with prolonged exposure.
Can you get sunburn through glass?
Yes, you can get sunburn and even tan through glass, but it's not that common. Most windows filter out some UV rays, but never fully, so there's always a risk of being burnt (especially on long car journeys).
Sun aftercare
We're all about prevention over cure, which is why making sure you're lotioned up with sunscreen is so important for avoiding sunburn.
It's also important to make sure your health is in good condition, as that can have an impact on the time it takes to recover from sunburn. Make sure your diet includes the best vitamins for your immune system and keep hydrated.
How long does sunburn last?
Depending on the severity of sunburn, it can take 7 days to fully heal. During that time, expect skin to become red, sore, warm, tender, and possibly itchy. It will then flake and peel after a few days to reveal the healthy skin underneath.
More severe sunburns may take longer, but the initial pain shouldn't last as long.
Does sunburn turn into tan?
No, not really. Sunburn is a direct result of damage, whereas a tan comes from a more gradual process of the skin protecting itself from the UV rays. You might experience darker skin after sunburn clears up, but it's likely to be just your body repairing the damage.
How to soothe sunburn
If you're sunburnt, your skin might feel hot to touch, you may experience pain or soreness, and your skin may begin to peel and flake. If the sunburn is severe, blisters may form on the skin too.
To soothe sunburn, try the following:
Avoid further sun exposure
Cool your skin with cool shower, bath or damp towel
Stay hydrated, drink plenty of water
Take painkillers if needed
Apply aftersun creams
Cover sunburnt skin from direct sunlight until healed
Don't do the following:
Use ice on burnt skin
Pop blisters
Scratch or pick at the burnt skin
Used petroleum jelly (Vaseline) on the sunburn
Wear tight-fitting clothing on sunburnt skin
How to stop skin peeling from sunburn
If you're experiencing peeling after your sunburn, it's completely normal. It's just your body's way of getting rid of the damaged cells.
Really, the only way to stop skin peeling from sunburn is to not get sunburnt in the first place. But, there are ways you can speed up the peeling process and make it more manageable.
Keep skin moisturised with aloe-vera or non-petroleum-based moisturiser
Drinking lots of water
Avoiding the sun
Cold compresses/cool showers
Always avoid peeling and picking at the skin, as tempting as it may be. You should also avoid exfoliating the skin with harsh products or tools — let the skin peel off naturally.
Is Sudocrem good for sunburn?
Yes, Sudocrem can be good for soothing and healing sunburns. It contains ingredients that help inflamed skin and also has a mild anaesthetic that can reduce any discomfort.
Don't, however, use Sudocrem instead of suncream and sun lotions to protect your skin from the sun.
How to stop sunburn itching
Sunburns can get pretty itchy, and it sucks. But, the absolute worst thing you could do is to scratch and itch at it, making it more inflamed and sore.
Taking an oral antihistamine can help relieve some of the itching, or taking a soothing bath in oatmeal — just add some oats to a cool bath or make a paste using oats and milk and apply to the itchy areas. Oats are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Applying Aloe Vera gel to the skin can also help relieve some of the itch.
Top-selling SPF products from Student Beans brands
We looked at some of our brands to see what students are buying with a student discount* and these are the top sellers when it comes to SPF and sun safety.
We've also got the best Korean sunscreen you can buy in the UK, if you're into the Korean skincare market.
It's important to note that makeup containing SPF (no matter how high) should not be used as a replacement for sun lotion. Makeup with SPF should be used in combination with sun lotion for maximum protection.
Our analysis of 'SPF foundation' search results on a popular beauty website revealed that nearly one-third of products listing SPF in their name had an SPF of 20 or lower. This is pretty concerning because the NHS recommends a minimum SPF of 30 for protection against UVB rays, indicating that these lower SPF products are insufficient as standalone sun protection but can be used alongside sunscreen. Only about 10% of the analysed products had an SPF of 40 or higher.
Solait Sun Lotion SPF30
NIVEA Tinted 24H Day Cream Light Skin Tone SPF15
Piz Buin Allergy Face Cream SPF 50+ Very High
Garnier Ambre Solaire Sensitive Sun Cream SPF50+
NIVEA MEN Anti-Age Power Moisturiser spf30
Tinted Balm Spf30 Rhubarb
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid Non-Perfumed Suncream SPF50+
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics SPF50+
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Oil Control Fluid SPF50+ for Oily Blemish-Prone Skin
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 SPF50+
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Sun Protection Invisible SPF50+ Face Mist
Garnier Vitamin C Daily UV Brightening Fluid Invisible SPF 50+
*Data based on purchases made using a student discount between 1 May 2024 – 23 May 2025.
Use our Superdrug student discounts and LOOKFANTASTIC student discounts to save money on your SPF.
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