How to Choose Sunscreen: Reading the Label
A plain-English label guide built on AAD and FDA guidance. Not medical advice.
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In the US, sunscreen is regulated as an over-the-counter drug, so every bottle has a Drug Facts label. Three words on the front do most of the work: SPF, broad spectrum and water resistant.
What the AAD recommends
The AAD recommends a sunscreen that is broad spectrum, SPF 30 or higher, and water resistant. The FDA’s minimum for its sun-safety advice is broad spectrum SPF 15.
SPF
The FDA says SPF measures protection against sunburn, which is mainly UVB. Higher values, up to 50, give more sunburn protection. SPF is about the amount of sun exposure, not how many hours you can stay out.
Broad spectrum
Broad spectrum means the product protects against both UVA and UVB. Not every sunscreen is broad spectrum, so look for the words on the label.
Water resistant, 40 or 80 minutes
No sunscreen is waterproof. A water resistant label must say whether it lasts 40 or 80 minutes while swimming or sweating.
How much and how often
The FDA says most adults need about one ounce, roughly a shot glass, to cover the body. Apply 15 minutes before going out and reapply at least every two hours, more often if swimming or sweating. Often missed spots include ears, nose, lips, the back of the neck, hands, tops of feet and the hairline.
Storage and expiry
Keep sunscreen out of direct sun and heat. Without an expiration date, the FDA says to treat it as expired three years after purchase. For babies under six months, the FDA says to keep them out of the sun and ask a doctor before using sunscreen.
Frequently asked questions
Is any sunscreen waterproof?
No. The FDA says there is no such thing as waterproof sunscreen. Water resistant labels must say whether protection lasts 40 or 80 minutes while swimming or sweating.
Does SPF 30 mean 30 times longer in the sun?
No. The FDA says SPF relates to the amount of sun exposure, not time.
How long does sunscreen last in the bottle?
The FDA says a sunscreen with no expiration date should be treated as expired three years after purchase.
