SPF 30 or SPF 50? What's the Real Difference? Which One Is Suitable for Which Skin Type? | Aloanne
30-05-2025
15:31
SPF 30 or SPF 50? What's the Real Difference? Which One Is Suitable for Which Skin Type? | Aloanne
Focusing on SPF values when choosing sunscreen has become a habit for all of us. But many of us still don't know the definitive answers to these questions:
Is there really a difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50?
Which one is safer?
Do you have to use factor 50 every day?
At Aloanne, we prioritize providing you with scientifically informed content in both the mother-baby and dermocosmetic categories. So, let's answer these questions together, not by rote, but based on scientific data.
What is SPF and What Does It Do?
SPF ( Sun Protection Factor ) is a measure of how long a sunscreen provides protection against UVB rays.
So, if you wear SPF 30, your skin can stay sunburn-free for 30 times longer than you would without sun protection. Similarly, SPF 50 extends that time 50 times longer.
However, these figures only apply to "ideal " conditions. In reality, factors such as sweat, air pollution, touching, and wiping significantly reduce protection.
What is the Difference Between SPF 30 and SPF 50 Scientifically?
SPF Value UVB Inhibition Rate Whom Does It Protect?
SPF 30 96.7% Medium risk skin, city dwellers
SPF 50 98% Fair skin, children, blemish-prone skin
So the difference is only 1.3%!
But this difference can become much more important in the long run in terms of skin cancer, blemish formation and DNA damage.
Is SPF 50 Necessary for Everyone?
No, not everyone needs to wear SPF 50 all the time.
Factors such as skin type, geography, and daily lifestyle are decisive here.
Who should definitely use SPF 50?
Light-skinned, reddening tanning skin type (Phototype 1-2)
Pregnant women (especially those at risk of melasma)
Babies and children
Those who experience sunspots, acne scars or post-laser/peel sensitivity
Those who spend long periods of time outdoors (holiday, field/sea work, outdoor sports)
Who can be protected with SPF 30?
Dark or easily tanned skin (Phototype 4+)
Office workers, those exposed to short-term sun exposure
Users who do not have skin problems and renew themselves regularly
Those Using SPF 30 Should Be More Careful
SPF 30 offers lower protection but is highly effective when used correctly. The problem often stems from users not applying the product properly.
The 5 Most Common Sunscreen Mistakes
1. Spending the whole day outside just because I use SPF 50
Don't think that just because you put it on in the morning and went out, you're protected all day.
UV filters oxidize and lose their effectiveness over time. Reapplication is essential every 2-3 hours.
2. Applying insufficient amounts
Don't say, "I'm going to wear makeup, just a little bit will do."
Approximately 1 teaspoon of product should be applied to the face. Less product = less protection.
3. Apply the product when going out
Sunscreen provides effective protection for at least 15 minutes after application. Apply it indoors before leaving the house.
4. Use only in summer
The sun's damage isn't limited to summer. Even on cloudy days, 80% of UV rays reach your skin.
5. Apply only to the face area
Areas like your ears, neck, hands, and lips are also exposed to the sun. Don't overlook these areas.
3 Things to Consider When Choosing SPF
Get protection against UVA and UVB (broad spectrum).
Choose a formula that suits your skin type (oil-free, tinted, mineral-based, etc.).
If it has a water-resistant feature, it will be an advantage especially in summer.
Aloanne Recommends: Protection is More Than SPF
As Aloanne, not only the SPF value, but also the product's:
Having passed dermatological tests,
Does not damage the skin barrier,
Supported by active ingredients
We pay attention to criteria such as.
When choosing sunscreen, skin health and lifestyle should be considered together.
SPF 50 provides higher protection, but its effect decreases without proper use.
SPF 30 may be sufficient, but if used carefully, it may stain the skin.
SPF 50 is recommended for more sensitive and high-risk skin.
SPF is sufficient for 30 days of city life, but should be renewed frequently.
What Do Other SPF Values Mean?
SPF isn't just limited to 30 and 50. You'll find products in the market with different values, from SPF 10 to SPF 100. So, what do these numbers mean?
SPF Value UVB Ray Blocking Rate Suitable Usage Area / Skin Type
SPF 10 90% Short-term, low-intensity sun exposure (e.g., early morning or late afternoon walks)
SPF 15 93% Medium dark skin that goes out for short periods of time daily
SPF 25 95% City life, office workers, low-sensitivity skin
SPF 30 96.7% Sufficient protection for general use
SPF 50 98% Blemish-prone, fair-skinned, sensitive skin
SPF 75+ 98.5-99% Those exposed to the sun for long periods of time, high-risk individuals (e.g. albino skin, skin diseases)
So, is SPF 100 necessary?
Especially high protections such as SPF 100;
After chemical peeling
Individuals with a history of skin cancer
In cases of extreme sensitivity such as albinism
It can be used with a doctor's advice. However, SPF 100 does not provide twice as long protection. The rate of UVB blocked increases, not the duration of protection.
Note: A higher SPF value also increases sun protection, but the increase isn't as great as you might think. For example, SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of harmful UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks approximately 98%. So, going from SPF 30 to 50 doesn't double the protection; it's only a difference of about 1%. This small difference can be significant for those with very sensitive skin or those exposed to the sun for extended periods.
Think about it this way:
Let's assume the sun sends out 100 harmful rays:
• SPF 15 = 7 rays reach your skin
• SPF 30 = 3 rays reach
• SPF 50 = 2 rays reach
While the difference may seem small, these few rays can cause spots, aging, and even skin cancer over the years.
Protection is not only about the SPF value but also about usage habits.
Continuity, quantity and correct application of sunscreen are as important as SPF.