SPF 50 sunscreen reduces UV exposure but doesn’t block it entirely. Tanning is still possible but can damage the skin, so you should pair sunscreen with other sun safety measures.
Can you tan with sunscreen SPF 50? While SPF 50 provides excellent protection by reflecting UV rays from your skin, no sunscreen can completely eliminate UV exposure. This means tanning is still possible, as even small amounts of UV radiation can trigger melanin production in your skin.
Read on as we explore how natural sunscreen works, what to look for in a good product and the best ways to stay protected while enjoying the sunshine responsibly.
How sunscreen works
SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB rays but doesn’t eliminate all UV exposure.
SPF 50 is designed to block 98% of UVB rays, providing strong protection.
While this high level of protection significantly reduces the risk of sunburn, it doesn’t mean your skin is completely shielded. Small amounts of UV radiation can still penetrate the sunscreen and reach your skin. This is why it’s important to think of sunscreen as a tool for minimising the impact of sun exposure, not eliminating it entirely.
As no sunscreen completely blocks UV rays, even with SPF 50, your skin can still tan. Tanning happens when UV rays stimulate melanin production in your skin as a defence mechanism. While the gradual tanning that occurs with sunscreen is less harmful than unprotected sun exposure, it’s still a sign of UV-induced damage.
High-SPF sunscreens slow the tanning process, offering safer sun exposure.
You can enjoy the sun while still taking measures to protect your skin’s health by giving your skin more time to protect itself.
Using SPF 50 zinc sunscreen slows how quickly your skin tans, allowing for safer time outdoors.
By reducing the intensity of UV radiation, high-SPF sunscreens lower the risk of burns and other immediate damage while you’re enjoying outdoor activities.
What to look for in sunscreen
Look for broad-spectrum sunscreen to shield against UVA and UVB rays.
UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, contributing to premature ageing, wrinkles and even some forms of skin cancer. UVB rays, on the other hand, affect the surface of the skin and are responsible for sunburn and most skin cancers.
Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays for sun protection against immediate damage and long-term risks.
Prioritise eco-conscious and reef-friendly formulas for safe outdoor use.
Certain ingredients, like oxybenzone and octinoxate, have been linked to harmful effects on coral reefs and aquatic life. This is why it’s crucial to look for reef safe sunscreen Australia has available since they avoid these chemicals, offering a safer option for enjoying the sun without contributing to environmental damage.
Opt for water-resistant products if swimming or sweating is expected.
Water-resistant sunscreens provide reliable protection during active outdoor activities. Whether you’re swimming, hiking or simply sweating on a hot day, water-resistant formulas maintain a protective barrier for longer durations. However, even water-resistant products lose effectiveness over time, so reapplication is essential.
How to apply sunscreen correctly
Use at least one teaspoon of sunscreen for each exposed area.
An adequate amount of sunscreen is about one teaspoon to ensure that every part of your skin exposed to the sun gets the protection it needs.
Focus on covering often-missed spots, like the back of your hands, the tops of your feet and the back of your neck. Consistently applying the recommended amount makes a big difference in how well sunscreen works for you.
Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going outside to allow absorption.
Give your sunscreen 20 minutes to bind to your skin before stepping outdoors.
This wait time allows the sunscreen to form a protective layer, especially for chemical sunscreens that need to be absorbed to work properly. If applied right before exposure, sunscreen can rub off from clothing, sweat or touch before it has a chance to protect you.
Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or toweling off.
Sunscreen must be reapplied every two hours to maintain consistent coverage.
Activities like swimming, sweating or drying off with a towel reduce the effectiveness of sunscreen, even if it’s water-resistant. Make it a habit to carry sunscreen with you during outdoor activities so you can reapply quickly when needed.
Avoid common mistakes when using SPF 50 sunscreen
Understand that any tan is a sign of skin damage.
Even when sunscreen is used, any tan reflects your skin’s attempt to protect itself, which is why dermatologists emphasise that ‘safe tanning’ is a bit of a myth. Using SPF 50 can slow down the process, but it doesn’t make tanning risk-free.
When your skin is exposed to UV rays, it produces melanin as a natural defence mechanism to protect deeper layers from further harm. This process, while protective, indicates that your skin has already sustained some level of damage.
Don’t assume SPF 50 lets you spend all day in the sun.
Sunscreen is a critical tool, but not a free pass to stay in the sun all day. Relying solely on sunscreen without factoring in the intensity and duration of exposure creates a false sense of security. Even with high SPF, repeated or extended exposure without additional precautions can contribute to premature ageing, discoloration and more serious concerns like melanoma.
Pair sunscreen with additional sun safety measures.
Sunscreen works best when combined with other protective strategies.
Using wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and UV-blocking clothing can shield areas sunscreen might not cover completely. Taking breaks in the shade during peak UV hours, typically from 10 AM to 4 PM, helps minimise direct exposure. These combined efforts enhance sunscreen’s protection and reduce the cumulative impact of UV rays on your skin.
Key points to remember
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SPF 50 blocks about 98% of UVB rays but not 100%, meaning some UV rays can still penetrate and cause tanning or damage.
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Tanning, even with sunscreen, is a sign of UV-induced skin damage as melanin production is triggered to protect deeper layers.
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Broad-spectrum sunscreen shields against both UVA (ageing and long-term damage) and UVB (burns and cancer risk) for comprehensive protection.
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Opt for sunscreens labelled as reef-safe to protect marine ecosystems while safeguarding your skin.
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Use water-resistant options during swimming or outdoor activities, but remember to reapply after water exposure.
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Sunscreen loses effectiveness over time, especially after swimming or sweating, so reapply regularly to maintain protection.
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Enhance protection with hats, sunglasses, UV-blocking clothing and shade breaks.
At Little Urchin, we craft natural, reef-safe suncare and skincare inspired by the beauty of the ocean. Our gentle, cruelty-free formulas protect your skin while caring for the planet.
Disclaimer: Our ingredients are sourced from nature and we apply a process to transform them into our final product.
