When considering sunscreens with very high SPF ratings, such as SPF 90, it’s important to understand their efficacy and safety. While higher SPF numbers indicate greater protection against UVB rays, the incremental benefit decreases beyond SPF 50. For instance, SPF 50 blocks about 98% of UVB rays, and higher SPFs offer only a slight increase in protection.
Moreover, some products labeled with extremely high SPFs may not have undergone rigorous testing or approval by health authorities. For example, the FDA issued a warning against the use of “DISAAR BEAUTY SKINCARE SUNSCREEN SPF OIL FREE MAX 90” due to lack of proper authorization.
Additionally, there have been reports of severe sunburns despite using high SPF products. A notable case involved a 10-year-old boy who suffered serious sunburn after using an SPF 90 sunscreen purchased abroad, highlighting potential issues with product efficacy or authenticity.
Health experts generally recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 to 50, applied generously and reapplied every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. This approach, combined with other protective measures like wearing hats and seeking shade, offers effective protection against harmful UV radiation.
In summary, while SPF 90 sunscreens are available, their additional benefits over SPF 50 are minimal. It’s crucial to choose reputable products that comply with health regulations and to follow proper sun protection practices.
