📌 What you’ll learn
- What SPF and PA each do
- How office workers, commuters and outdoor people should choose
- Why using enough, reapplying and washing off at night matter more
- Why you need sunscreen even on cloudy days
Walk into the sunscreen section at Watsons or Guardian and the shelf is full of SPF30, SPF50+, PA+++, PA++++, plus words like “waterproof”, “tinted” and “light”. In the end, many people choose just one way: grab the one with the biggest number.
A high number isn’t wrong. But sunscreen isn’t “the higher the better”. It should match how much sun you really get in a day, and it only works if you apply enough and reapply.
We live near the equator, with no winter, and the sun is strong all 365 days of the year. This article first helps you understand SPF and PA, then explains how to choose for three kinds of lifestyle.
First, read the label: what do SPF and PA each do?
The UV rays in sunlight that affect the skin are mainly of two kinds:
- UVB: higher energy, mainly causes redness and sunburn.
- UVA: longer wavelength, can pass through clouds and window glass, and is more linked to tanning and skin ageing.
SPF: for UVB
SPF is the sun protection factor. It shows how well a product helps delay the skin turning red from UVB.
Many people think SPF50 is almost twice as strong as SPF30, but the difference isn’t that big. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), SPF30 blocks about 97% of UVB; a higher number only blocks a little more, and no sunscreen blocks 100%. That’s assuming you apply enough.
PA: for UVA
PA is a labelling system from Japan. It uses the number of “+” signs to show the level of UVA protection: the more +, the higher the protection. The highest right now is four + (PA++++).
On Western products you’ll often see Broad Spectrum, which also means protection against both UVA and UVB.
How strong is the sun where we live?
Singapore’s NEA website updates the UV Index every 15 minutes from 7am to 7pm. The index is divided into low, moderate, high, very high and extreme. NEA reminds us that UV is strongest from 11am to 3pm, so take extra care.
The World Health Organization (WHO) says: when the UV index is 3 or above, you should protect yourself from the sun. At 8 or above, try not to stay outdoors around midday.
So in Malaysia and Singapore, sunscreen isn’t something you “only use at the beach”. It’s a daily basic before going out. Friends in Malaysia can also check the day’s UV index in a weather app.
Three lifestyles: how should you choose sunscreen?
Below is a general guide based on how long and how strongly you’re in the sun. In practice, also consider your skin type and that day’s UV index.
Office workers: the key is “apply every day”
Being in the office all day doesn’t mean you get no sun at all. UVA can pass through glass: a seat by the window, walking to the hawker centre to tapau lunch, driving to and from work. It all adds up.
You don’t need to chase the highest number. Choose one that’s not stuffy or sticky and make applying it every morning a habit. That’s more useful than an SPF50 once in a while.
Commuters and outdoor jobs: go higher, and remember to reapply
Walking to the MRT station, waiting for the bus by the road, riding a motorbike for deliveries or sales: your face and arms are in the sun the whole time, and you get more sun than you think. Singapore’s NEA website, citing the Ministry of Health, advises using SPF30 or above when you go out while UV is strong.
Carry one that’s easy to reapply. Don’t forget easy-to-miss spots like the backs of your hands, your neck and ears.
Outdoor work and sports: sunscreen is only one part
When you’re outside for long hours, sweating and wiping off sweat make sunscreen wear off fast. Besides choosing a water- and sweat-resistant high-SPF product, cover-ups like hats, umbrellas, arm sleeves and sunglasses often work more directly than adding another layer. If you can walk in the shade, walk in the shade.
3 things more important than the SPF number
1. Use enough
SPF is tested with “enough” product applied. If you only apply a thin layer, the real protection is much lower than the label. For the whole body, the AAD recommends adults use about 1 ounce (about 30ml), roughly a shot glass.
2. Apply before going out, reapply every 2 hours outdoors
The AAD recommends applying about 15 minutes before going out, reapplying every 2 hours outdoors, and reapplying right after swimming or sweating.
If you wear makeup and it’s hard to reapply, blot off sweat and oil with a tissue first, then add a sunscreen that can be layered on top. No need to wash your face again.
3. Wash it off well at night
Whether you need makeup remover for sunscreen depends on the product’s instructions. Everyday sunscreens usually come off with a facial cleanser; for ones labelled waterproof, sweat-resistant or tinted, follow the packaging and use a makeup remover.
After washing, remember to moisturise. For the order of steps, see The right order for your skincare.
The best sunscreen is the one you’re willing to apply every day. First think about how long you’re in the sun each day and pick the right level, then apply enough and reapply when needed. Do these three things and you’ll get more out of it than from buying the most expensive sunscreen.
- 6A Multi-Effect Brightening Protection Cream: SPF20, moisturising type, with tranexamic acid. Good for everyday outings like going to work, buying groceries, sending and fetching the kids; people with drier skin or who spend long hours in aircond rooms will like it. Reapply every 1–2 hours outdoors, every 3–4 hours indoors.
- 6B Whitening Repair Sun Cream: SPF25, light type, with a tinting effect. Suits those who get oily easily and want a good complexion without makeup. Use it alone or layer it over 6A.
- No.1 Gentle Complete Cleanser: at night, No.1 washes off light everyday makeup and sunscreen together. Soap-free, and your skin won’t feel tight after washing.
Products aren’t a must. Choose based on your own skin; if you’re not sure, ask me first.
FAQ
Q: Do I need sunscreen on cloudy or rainy days?
Yes. On rainy or cloudy days the UV index is a bit lower, but cloudy doesn’t mean no UV, and UVA can pass through clouds. Sun damage builds up over time. For how the sun relates to ageing, see 5 habits that make your skin age faster.
Q: Does a higher SPF put more burden on the skin?
Not necessarily. How comfortable it feels depends more on the formula and texture; you can’t judge by the number alone. If your skin is sensitive, test a small patch behind the ear or on the inner arm first, and only use it on your whole face if there’s no discomfort.
Q: My foundation has SPF. Do I still need a separate sunscreen?
The amount of foundation or cushion we use is usually far less than the amount used when testing SPF, so it’s hard to get the labelled protection from makeup alone. The safer way is to apply sunscreen first, then makeup.
Q: I already have spots. Is sunscreen still useful?
Yes. Sun protection is the most basic step in skincare, worth doing well whether or not you have spots. For why spots come back easily, see Will dark spots come back after they fade?; if a spot changes in colour or shape, please see a dermatologist directly.
Want to know how to care for your skin?
Tell me about your situation, no pressure 😊
※ This website is run by Derrick, an independent IT’S BEATTIYA distributor, and is not the official website of the IT’S BEATTIYA company. This article shares general skincare knowledge. Cosmetic results vary from person to person and cannot replace medical advice; if your skin reacts abnormally, stop using the product and consult a dermatologist.
