SPF ratings

G004 200ml £14.50
SUN LOTION SPF8
Suitable for dark complexions & people who tan easily Unavailable until March 2010. Please do not order.

What do SPF ratings mean?
SPF25 vs SPF50
SPFs and UVA

Article: What do SPF ratings mean?

The SPF rating system used to classify sunscreens can be quite confusing and it is not surprising that very few consumers really understand it. Here we try to clear up some of the myths and mysteries surrounding the SPF numbering method to give you understanding and control of your sun protection this summer.

What an SPF actually represents is how much longer you will be able to stay in the sun with sun lotion without visibly burning than if you had been unprotected. It only applies to UVB, not UVA rays. Read more about UVA protection.

If you normally start burning after 15 minutes in the sun without any sun lotion on, by using an SPF8 sunscreen you would theoretically be able to stay out 8 times longer without burning - i.e. 8 x 15 = 2 hours.

However, please do not use a high SPF sun lotion as an excuse for not reapplying for hours on end! It is vital to reapply sun lotion regularly for protection against UVA rays and ensure you have proper coverage on areas which may have accidentally rubbed off on towels or clothing.

Read about how to measure the right amount of sun lotion to use.

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