Sunscreen products are a dime a dozen – which of them is probably the most reliable product? Consumers who ask themselves this question could understandably assume that it is the product advertised as a “sun blocker”. After all, this term gives the impression of total protection: “sun block” sounds like the product does not let harmful UV rays through to the skin. But that is a fallacious assumption.
“Sunblock”: No complete protection from sunscreen
(Photo: CC0 / Pixabay / dimitrisvetsikas1969)
The Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS) warns that even sunscreens with a very high sun protection factor and proven UVB and UVA protection cannot offer you complete protection against dangerous UV radiation. Even with a supposed “sun blocker”, some of the UV rays still penetrate the skin.
Sunscreen works thanks to mineral and/or chemical UV filters:
- Mineral filters form a physical barrier that reflects or diffuses UV rays;
- Chemical filters absorb the UV rays and release the absorbed energy as heat.
Based on the sun protection factor (SPF) stated on the packaging, you can see how well these UV filters protect you or how much they extend the natural self-protection of your skin.
The following applies: the higher the sun protection factor, the higher the protection – but even creams with SPF 50+ cannot block all of the radiation. According to the Helmholtz Society, they still allow two percent of UV radiation to reach the skin, i.e. one fiftieth. For a product with SPF 15 it is seven percent: one fifteenth.
It is also important to know that the protection specified on the packaging is only guaranteed if you make sure that you apply sunscreen correctly. Common mistakes when using sunscreen are, for example, not using enough product and neglecting to reapply regularly.
How sun protection may be declared
(Photo: CC0 / Pixabay / chezbeate)
It’s a common misconception that sunscreen doesn’t let UV rays through at all. For this reason, the EU banned advertising claims such as “sun blocker” or “complete protection” on the products as early as 2007. Since then, the labeling of sunscreen products has been standardized:
Protection is classified as “basic” (SPF six to 10), “medium” (SPF 15, 20 or 25), “high” (SPF 30 and 50) and “very high” (SPF 50+).
There is also a standardized UVA seal that identifies products whose UV filters can guarantee at least a third of the UVA protection. This is important because SPF relates primarily to UVB radiation (which causes sunburn) and not UVA radiation (which is a key risk factor for skin cancer and skin aging).
You can find more important information about sunscreen in our guides:
- 5 sunscreen rules: How useful are they?
- Organic sunscreen: effective protection without risk?
- Make your own sunscreen: why it’s not a good idea
How to protect yourself from the sun
While sunscreens advertised as “sunblock” are no longer available in the EU, products with SPF 50+ and UVA/UVB protection can give you a false sense of security. Be aware that sunscreen should only ever be one of several sun protection measures! The BfS lists other important sun protection rules:
- Avoid the sun when it is at its peak around midday. At this time, the UV index is at its highest. Reschedule outdoor activities for the morning or evening.
- Cover your skin with clothing, including a hat and closed-toe shoes.
- When bathing you should protect your shoulders, chest and back from UV radiation with a t-shirt. Water reflects the UV radiation and thus increases its effect.
- Wear sunglasses with UV 400 protection.
- Babies should not be exposed to direct sunlight.