SP30 v SPF50 for face?

[JoyceDivision]

Some sources claim SPF30 isn't enough, some claim SPF50 too much: which is best?

Reading body shop SPF face creams and the SPF50 is UVA block but not UVB so not full coverage as it at lead you to believe!

What is the best? I want to ramp up face care for the summer!

Thanks in advance

I can’t remember the exact percentages but spf 30 block only a small percentage less rays than 50 ( something like 96% to 98%) but contains a lot more chemicals that are bad and can irritate the skin. And 50 is also less pleasant to use so will use less and it is more likely to lull you into a false sense of security.
It is more important to use a lot evenly and regularly and reapply rather than have a higher factor.
So Daily I use spf25 liberally. I put it on, wait a bit and put it on again if I know I am going to be outside. I also have a powder spf in a brush for quick afternoon top ups over makeup as I know I am not disciplined enough to properly reapply cream spf.
Also consider going mineral only. I tend to use mineral only most days and only use chemical spf in the height of summer when I am out for prolonged periods.
I like Clinique cityblock sheer spf 25 for daily use.

I would always use 50 because I use acids and I'm fairly pale, it may well be that 30 would be fine but in my mind why risk it?! I don't think 30 feels any different to 50 as long as you use a good product so may as well have any extra protection.

Which BodyShop SPF are you talking about? I get mine from there and it does say UVA and UVB.

I use Clinique spf 50 during spring and summer, anything less and I burn. For winter I use 30 but this year have used a moisturiser with factor 20 in it. That’s been fine on dull days but not quite enough for the brighter days we’ve had.

It's the body shop spf50, in the reviews someone spotted "broad UVB" and contacted body shop who confirmed only provides some UVB coverage,shame asI liked the look of it!

I don't think any suncream provides 100% unless you get a physical sunblock like those zinc type white stripes skiers wear.

I would also add I don't use acids or retinols in the summer as it's just not worth it. Unless you are diligently applying every 2 hours the protection is going to wear off. That's why factor 50 can give a false sense of security.

Yes, agree about the acids in summer, I only started using them in October last year. Plan to wind down over next few weeks then stop over summer until autumn.

I personally look for uva and uvb factor 50 and make sure I apply it well and reapply as needed. I also try to keep my face out of the sun with hats. I wouldn't drive myself crazy thinking about it too much, as bodicea says nothing is 100%, just take reasonable steps.