SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/spf-not-hours

Does SPF 30 mean you can stay in the sun 30 times longer?

No. SPF measures sunburn protection, not hours.

  1. Yes, 30 times longer
  2. Yes, if you put it on before going out
  3. No, it is not a timer ✔

Why: FDA says SPF is about how much sun it takes to burn, not clock time. Midday sun is stronger, so the same SPF does not buy a set number of hours.

Huh, didn't know that: Pick broad spectrum SPF 15 or higher, and still reapply.

The dad joke
Why did the tomato turn red? It saw the salad dressing.
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Sources

  1. FDA: Sunscreen How to Help Protect Your Skin https://www.fda.gov/drugs/understanding-over-counter-medicines/sunscreen-how-help-protect-your-skin-sun

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