A dreamy summer is all about sand, surf and sun(screen). As we’re getting all the buzz on SPFs, we have to ask: do you know how to understand everything that’s written on the sunscreen label? Does higher SPF number mean more protection? And what’s with all the “plus” signs? If you don’t know how to answer these questions, don’t worry. Consider this your sunscreen 101 and we got all the answers right here for you. Reading a sunscreen label shouldn’t be like deciphering a foreign language. So here’s the ultimate SPF guide that will, once and for all, help you get clear on what those words and numbers mean so you can get the best sunscreen of your dreams!

First things first, let’s talk *SPF* numbers.

The SPF number tells you how long the sun’s UV radiation would take to redden your skin when using the product exactly as directed versus the amount of time without any sunscreen. For instance, if your sunscreen says SPF 30 like our current favorite Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Daily Sun Gel SPF30 PA+++, it means it would take you 30 times longer to burn than if you weren’t wearing any.

Isntree - Hyaluronic Acid Daily Sun Gel SPF30 PA+++

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Isntree

This refreshing sun gel not only boasts an SPF30 rating that blocks 97% of UV rays but also features 10 types of Hyaluronic Acid and Beta-Glucan to replenish the skin all day long. Your summer skin will love the fast-absorbing formula powered by Aqua Loading Gel Network which will keep your beach-ready skin hydrated and protected from harmful sun rays.

If you have a history or higher risk of skin cancer or struggle with photosensitive skin, we highly recommend wearing sunscreens with SPF50 or above. Same goes for rosacea skin which calls for a physical sunscreen with SPF50 or above to get the job done. Lucky for us, Isntree’s new sunscreen lineup has another buzz-worthy bestseller that will give your rosacea skin the exact protection it needs.

Isntree - Hyaluronic Acid Natural Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Isntree

Fitted with zinc oxide mineral filters to offer broad-spectrum sun protection of SPF 50+ PA++++, this summer essential effectively fends off UV rays while blending out to produce a soft, matte finish. Powerhouse ingredients in formula such as hyaluronic acid, inositol and betaine keep skin soothed and hydrated.

Get to know the PA sunscreen rating (and all the pluses)

The PA rating system indicates the level of UVA protection provided by the sunscreen. So you guessed it, the pluses indicate the hierarchy of protection available. The more pluses, the higher the protection. If you’re looking for high UVA protection for your next beach outing, swap in the SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50 PA++++.

SKIN1004 - Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50 PA++++

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - SKIN1004

Formulated with Madecassoside Extract, Panthenol + 3 types of Hyaluronic Acid with different molecular weight, the This organic sunscreen with SPF50+ PA++++ is produced with a golden ratio of hyaluronic acid and centella asiatica extract to soothe and nourish skin without leaving a white cast. Arugula leaf, green tea, and broccoli extracts give antioxidant advantages and aid in the improvement of underlying skin issues. Your skin will definitely love the serum-like texture that absorbs quickly and leaves your skin plump and shining.

Chemical Sunscreen VS Mineral Sunscreen

Most sunscreens don’t explicitly say on the bottle whether it’s a chemical sunscreen or a mineral sunscreen. However, you can read the ingredient list at the back and look for zinc oxide and titanium oxide with which most mineral sunscreens are formulated. They work by creating a physical barrier on the skin that shields it from the sun’s rays.

make p:rem - UV Defense Me. Calming Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - make p:rem

Searching for a non-irritating, non-comedogenic sunscreen for easily irritated skin is extra difficult, but the nightmare ends here - thanks to the make p:rem UV Defense Me. Calming Sun Cream. Featuring a soothing combo of bamboo water + madecassoside, this 100% zinc-oxide (also, wow) sunscreen aces the skin-soothing department so you can protect your inflamed, sensitive skin on the hotter days without worries.

PURITO - Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - PURITO

For chemical sunscreen, the PURITO Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ is one of the most hype-worthy top-shelfer on the Stylevana radar—and rightfully so. This lightweight, cast-free sunscreen features 5 types of ceramides to shield the skin from environmental stressors and strengthen the skin barrier, with panthenol working overtime to lock in moisture and cica extracts to quell inflammation and irritation.

Now that you know how to decipher your sunscreen label, It’s time to refill your summer vanity with the best sunscreens from our collection! Shop your most-favorite chemical sunscreen or mineral sunscreen to prep your skin for the sunny days ahead! On top of wearing sunscreen every day, make sure you learn all the after-sun care tips to soothe your sun-kissed skin! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to get more instant product updates and skincare tips!