We all know the importance of using sunscreen regularly.

There are many options available with SPF 15, SPF 30, and SPF 50 as well. But what exactly is SPF and what does it mean?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It measures how well the sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays. Basically there are 2 types of harmful UV rays – UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays cause premature aging and wrinkles while UVB rays cause sunburn and skin damage that can lead to skin cancer.

So SPF basically shows how long the sun’s UV radiation would take to redden your skin versus the amount of time without any sunscreen. For example with SPF 15, it would take you 15 times longer to burn than if you weren’t wearing sunscreen. This protection, however, is contingent on different factors including whether you are using the product as directed, weather conditions, skin type, how much you sweat, etc.

Despite notions that a higher SPF extends the amount of time you can spend in the sun without damaging your skin, SPF actually measures the amount of UVB exposure and is not meant to help determine the duration of that exposure. There are different levels of SPH:

• 1. Low (4, 6, 8, 10)
• 2. Medium or Moderate (15, 20, 25)
• 3. High (30, 40, 50)
• 4. Very High (50+)

However, the SPF scale is not linear. SPF 15 sunscreen blocks 93% of UVB rays while SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays and SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB rays. Most dermatologists recommend using sunscreens with SPF 15 or SPF 30. Sunscreens with high to very high SPF do not offer significantly more protection and can be misleading since people may forget to reapply every 2 hours and may spend more time in the sun leading to more sun damage.

This is not the only factor when using a sunscreen though. Keep in mind that SPF only shows the protection against UVB rays whereas UVA rays cause significant damage to the health and youthfulness of your skin. The ideal sunscreen should also offer broad spectrum coverage which would also include protection against UVA radiation.

This should make it easier for you to choose the sunscreen of your choice. We carry a wide range of organic and natural sunscreens that work powerfully to protect your skin against all kinds of sun damage including a range of sunscreens from Coola Suncare. Just remember to use the correct amount and reapply to ensure you can frolic in the sun without damaging the largest organ of your body – your skin!

KEEP READING TO LEARN ABOUT OUR FAVORITE NATURAL SUNSCREENS!

COOLA ECO-LUX BODY SPF 30 ORGANIC SUNSCREEN SPRAY

Comes in a variety of scents and SPF.

An organic, broad-spectrum SPF 30 continuous-spray sunscreen with antioxidants such as Cucumber, Algae, Strawberry, and Red Raspberry Seed Oil for enhanced UV protection. A sport sunscreen doesn't have to be thick or heavy in order to work. Ours is sheer with good-for-your-skin ingredients, plus it's organic —and that's a win-win.

• 70%+ certified organic ingredients
• Broad spectrum SPF 30 protection
• Water resistant (40 minutes)
• Continuous spray-on application
• Ultra-sheer
• Rich in antioxidants
• Hypoallergenic
• Naturally scented and unscented options
• Vegan

100% Pure Yerba Mate Mist SPF 30

This totally pure, SPF30 natural and organic sunscreen will keep skin youthful, protected and hydrated with a powerful blend of plant derived oils, nutrients, and vitamins.

Mattifying & soothing SPF 30 Yerba Mate Mist gives you full UVA / UVB protection. Yerba Mate tea leaf contains antioxidants that help to protect against free radicals and environmental pollutants.

• Antioxidant-rich Yerba Mate Extract & advanced zinc oxide broad spectrum sun protection—.
• No synthetic chemicals.
• Sunscreen is quick drying, easy-to-apply with a continuous spray.
• Lightweight & naturally-derived formula sprays evenly & smoothly for full coverage.
• Water resistant (80 minutes)