SPF 30 vs SPF 50: What's the Difference?

If you've ever stood in front of a wall of sunscreens wondering “Do I really need SPF 50?”, you're not alone.

Both SPF 30 and SPF 50 provide high UVB protection, but SPF 50 offers a little more. The bigger number doesn't mean it lasts longer or that you can spend 50 times longer in the sun.

Here's the simple breakdown:

The NHS recommends using at least SPF 30, alongside good UVA protection. (NHS)

Is SPF 50 Better Than SPF 30?

SPF 50 provides more UVB protection, but the difference is smaller than you might expect.

For everyday life in the UK, SPF 30 can provide excellent protection when applied generously and correctly.

SPF 50 can be a particularly good choice when:

• You're spending lots of time outdoors
• You're travelling somewhere with stronger UV
• You have fair or sun-sensitive skin
• You're at the beach or swimming
• You want the highest level of UVB protection available

Whatever SPF you choose, application matters just as much as the number on the bottle.

Don't Forget UVA Protection

SPF primarily measures UVB protection, but UVA rays also contribute to long-term skin damage and premature skin ageing.

For more complete protection, look for:

SPF 30+ + strong UVA protection

In the UK, UVA protection may be shown using a UVA circle or a star rating.

👉 Read our guide to UVA vs UVB

Our SPF 30 & SPF 50 Picks

We've curated a range of high-protection formulas to suit different skin types, preferences and lifestyles.

SPF 30

EVY Sunscreen Mousse SPF 30
Lightweight, easy-to-apply mousse protection.

Suntribe Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
A mineral option using zinc oxide for broad-spectrum protection.

SPF 50

Ultrasun Face SPF 50
A great choice for everyday facial protection.

Altruist SPF 50
High-protection, dermatologist-developed sun care.

Suntribe Mineral UV Shield SPF 50
Mineral protection for those who prefer zinc oxide-based SPF.

Australian Gold SPF 50 Face
A facial SPF designed for high-protection everyday wear.

So, Which SPF Should You Choose?

Our simple rule?

☀️ SPF 30: A great choice for everyday protection.

☀️ SPF 50: Ideal when you want extra UVB protection or are expecting more intense or prolonged sun exposure.

Whichever you choose, remember to apply generously and reapply regularly, particularly after swimming, sweating or towel drying.

And don't rely on sunscreen alone — shade, clothing, hats and sunglasses are all part of smart sun protection. (Cancer Research UK)

Still Not Sure Which SPF Is Right for You?

That's where we can help.

We've worked with dermatologist Dr Adil Sheraz to curate our collections and create our Skin Quiz, helping you find products suited to your skin and what you're looking for from your sun protection.

Find Your SPF Match

TAKE THE SKIN QUIZ →

Or explore our Saver Bundles → to stock up and save.

Related Reading

UVA vs UVB: What's the Difference?

Why Daily SPF Is Your Skin's Best Defence

What Makes SPF Water Resistant?

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin Type & Skin Tone