The Great Sunscreen Debate: SPF 35 vs. SPF 50 — Which One Should You Choose?

You’re standing in the beauty aisle, faced with a wall of options. You know you need a great sunscreen, but the numbers can be confusing. Should you grab the sunscreen spf 35 or reach for the sunscreen spf 50? Is higher always better?

It’s one of the most common questions in skincare, and we’re here to demystify the numbers so you can make the best choice for your skin's health and radiance. Let's break down the SPF debate.

First, What Does SPF Actually Mean?

Before we compare numbers, let's get clear on the basics. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It primarily measures how well a sunscreen protects you from UVB rays—the kind of radiation that causes sunburn and contributes to skin cancer.

The number tells you how long it would take for the sun's UVB rays to redden your skin when using the product exactly as directed, compared to the amount of time without any sunscreen. For example, if you would normally start to burn in 10 minutes, an SPF 35 sunscreen would theoretically provide 35 times that protection.

However, it's crucial to remember this is a lab-based measurement. In the real world, factors like sweat, water, and how much sunscreen you actually apply play a huge role.

The Numbers Game: How Much Difference is There?

This is where things get interesting. You might assume that SPF 50 offers significantly more protection than SPF 35, but the difference is smaller than you think.

  • SPF 35 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays.

  • SPF 50 blocks approximately 98% of UVB rays.

That's right—the difference in protection is just 1%. While every bit of protection counts, the jump from SPF 35 to SPF 50 isn't a massive leap. This is a game of diminishing returns; no sunscreen can ever block 100% of UV rays.

So, When Should You Choose a Higher SPF?

While the percentage difference is small, there are specific situations where opting for a sunscreen spf 50 is a smart move:

  • You have very fair skin: If you are highly susceptible to burning.

  • You have a history of skin cancer: Or a family history that puts you at higher risk.

  • Intense, prolonged sun exposure: Think a long day at the beach, hiking at high altitudes, or being near reflective surfaces like snow or water.

  • You tend to under-apply: Let’s be honest, most of us don't apply the recommended amount. A higher SPF can provide a small but valuable buffer to compensate for imperfect application.

The Case for SPF 35: Your Perfect Daily Defender

For most people, a high-quality sunscreen spf 35 is the perfect choice for daily use. Here’s why:

  • Excellent Everyday Protection: It shields your skin from 97% of burning rays, which is more than enough for daily activities like commuting, working near a window, or running errands.

  • Focus on Formulation: Often, sunscreens in the 30-40 SPF range can be formulated to feel more elegant and lightweight on the skin, making them a pleasure to wear every day.

  • Consistency is Key: The best sunscreen is the one you will actually wear consistently. A cosmetically elegant SPF 35 that you love is far more effective than an SPF 50 that feels heavy and stays in the bottle.

The Most Important Factor? It's Not the Number.

Ultimately, the debate between SPF 35 and SPF 50 is less important than how you use your sunscreen. Whether you choose 35 or 50, your protection is only as good as your application habits.

  1. Apply Generously: Most people only apply 25-50% of the recommended amount. Aim for the "two-finger" rule for your face and neck.

  2. Reapply Diligently: Reapply at least every two hours, and more often if you’re swimming, sweating, or toweling off.

  3. Choose Broad-Spectrum: Ensure your sunscreen protects against both UVB (burning) and UVA (aging) rays.

The Velva Solution: Effortless, Everyday Protection

We believe that daily sun protection shouldn't feel like a chore; it should be a luxurious, essential step in your self-care ritual.

That's why we created the Velva Radiant Defence SPF 35.

We chose SPF 35 because it provides robust, broad-spectrum protection perfect for your daily life, all within a beautifully elegant and lightweight formula. It’s a sunscreen designed to be loved and worn every single day.

Our Radiant Defence formula melts into the skin without a white cast, leaving behind a hydrated, luminous finish that works perfectly on its own or under makeup. It’s more than just a sunscreen; it's a daily skin treatment that defends and perfects.

So, when choosing your next sunscreen, look beyond just the numbers. Prioritize a formula you adore and a protection level that suits your lifestyle. For daily radiance and powerful defense, the choice is clear.

Protect and perfect your skin. [Discover the Velva Radiant Defence SPF 35 today.]

Back to blog