Why not always use factor 50?

Factor 50 sounds like maximum protection and therefore the safest choice. But is it always the best option? Not necessarily. The right SPF depends on your skin type, how long you're in the sun and what you're doing. If you understand how SPF really works, you can make more conscious and more effective choices.

What does SPF actually mean?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and indicates how much longer you can stay in the sun without burning compared with unprotected skin. SPF 30 filters about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 improves that to around 98%. The difference in protection between factor 30 and factor 50 is therefore just one percentage point. SPF 100 offers 99% protection - a marginal improvement over factor 50. What many people don't know is that a higher factor can lead to a false sense of security.

People who use factor 50 often apply it less frequently, stay outside longer and apply less product than needed - which means the effective protection drops after all. In addition, sunscreens with a very high SPF sometimes contain more active ingredients to reach that level, which gives sensitive skin a greater chance of irritation.

When do you choose which factor?

Choosing the right SPF depends on several factors: your skin type, the intensity of the sun, how long you're outdoors and whether you reapply regularly. For daily use in the city or at the office - where you're only outside briefly - factor 30 is enough in most cases. People with fair skin, a skin condition such as rosacea, or an increased risk of skin cancer benefit from factor 50 when they spend longer periods in the sun. Factor 50 is also recommended for intensive outdoor sports, beach or ski holidays and when the UV index is high. For daily use with mixed exposure, factor 30, provided it's applied correctly and generously, offers excellent protection. Applying sunscreen correctly - the right amount and reapplying regularly - is at least as important as the factor itself.

The WONDR view on daily protection

At WONDR we don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to skincare. The best sunscreen is the one you really use every day, apply the right way and that suits your skin type. For most people, factor 30 for daily use is an excellent and more skin-friendly choice, while factor 50 earns its place with higher sun exposure. Discover which protection suits your routine and take a look at our range.