How do I choose the right UV protection level for me?

Whether you're planning a holiday or the weather is warming up, it's time to get out and about in the sun. Here's how to choose the right UV protection to put your mind at ease and keep you safe.

1. What is UV protection?

20, 30, 50… all sun protection products come with a number, their UV protection level. SPF (Sunburn Protection Factor) refers to the level of protection a product gives you against UVB rays. In French, you may see other acronyms used on packaging, such as IP (Indice de Protection) or FPS (Facteur de Protection Solaire). Whatever the term used, the assessment method for protection levels and the resulting number are always the same. The SPF number shown on sunblock products refers to the amount of time you have before you can expect to see sunburn appear. With an SPF 30 sunscreen, for example, skin is protected 30 times longer than if you applied no cream at all.

The higher the factor, the higher the protection against UV-related damage. SPF 30 products are officially considered to be 'High Protection', while SPF 50+ products are 'Very High Protection'.

2. Which SPF should I choose?

When it comes to the sun, some skin types are more sensitive than others, and different SPFs apply. Skin types are categorised based on their sensitivity to the sun, which defines their phototype. The lighter the phototype, the more sensitive skin will be to the sun. If you have very white or pale skin, always reach for Very High Protection SPF 50+ products and avoid spending too long in the sun. If you have light skin that tans, or olive skin, High Protection SPF 30 should be sufficient. At Clarins, we make protecting and caring for skin our priority, which is why our range of sunscreen products are only available in High Protection SPF 30 or Very High Protection SPF 50+ formulas.

For your face, pick the texture you prefer: either the Dry Touch Sun Care Cream SPF 30/50+ or the Invisible Sun Care Body Oil-in-Mist UVA/UVB 30. For a sun-kissed glow at the beach or in the city, the Mineral Sun Care Compact SPF 30 is your new best friend. Its light, fine texture and universal beige shade is perfect for bringing radiance and evenness to your complexion. Finally, the Mineral Sun Care Liquid SPF 30 is particularly well-suited to protecting fragile areas such as the eye contour area, ears, lips, nose, back of the neck and shoulders.

When it comes to protecting the skin on your body, you're spoiled for choice. The Sun Care Cream (SPF 30 or SPF 50+) offers complete protection with no white marks. If you like oily, non-greasy textures and a glossy, satin finish, the Oil-in-Mist SPF 30 is ideal. If you prefer to apply your sunscreen directly to wet skin, reach for the Sun Care Body Oil-in-Mist UVA/UVB 30. And last but not least, the Lotion-in-Spray Sun Care SPF 50+ is perfect for easy application with no white marks, thanks to its handy spray format.

Please note: even if you use the highest SPF available, do not spend too long in the sun and apply your sun protection every two hours and after swimming.