Frequently Asked Questions   /   Types of Cancer   /   Skin Cancers   /   General Concerns

Is Higher SPF Better?

Print PDF

OncoLink
Last Modified: August 13, 2012

Question

Is it always better to get the highest SPF sunscreen I can find?

Answer

Rachel Woods, RN, Nurse for the Surgical Dermatology Program at Penn Medicine responds:

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using sunscreens with an SPF no lower than 30. Once you go above 50, there is a very small difference in protection. The key is to reapply often no matter what you are using...at least every 2 hours.

This question and answer was part of the OncoLink Brown Bag Chat Series. View the entire Sun Safety Webchat transcript.