Is Higher SPF Better?

July 18, 2025

Have you ever shopped for sunscreen and wondered which SPF is best? We’ve got you. SPF (sun protection factor) indicates the amount of protection a sunscreen offers against UVB rays––the type that causes sunburns. You might assume then that the higher the SPF number, the more protection you’ll receive. That’s true to a certain degree.

While no sunscreen offers 100% protection, all Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance™ sunscreens offer broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection. This means they protect against both UVA and UVB rays. They also feature our best-selling beachy Cheirosa 87 scent. Who doesn’t love that?

Let’s dive a little deeper into the benefits of SPF 50, including the difference between SPF 50 and 100, and how to choose the best sunscreen for your skin.

The Efficacy of Higher SPF Sunscreens

First, a quick lesson on how SPF is calculated. According to the FDA (which regulates sunscreen in the U.S.), SPF is a measure of how much UV radiation it would take to produce a sunburn on skin that’s protected by sunscreen, compared to how much it would take on unprotected skin. TLDR; SPF indicates how well a sunscreen protects from sunburn, as long as you apply and reapply correctly. We’ll get into that, don’t worry!

So, what is the highest SPF available? The answer is SPF 100. However, no sunscreen will block 100% of UVB rays. In fact, dermatologists recommend a minimum SPF of 30, which blocks 97% of UVB rays. After that, the increases become incrementally smaller. SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB rays. As for 100 SPF vs. 50, it’s even closer with about 99% of UV rays blocked.

Keep in mind that SPF only refers to protection against UVB rays. UVA rays can also cause sun damage, including premature aging and skin cancer. Look for sunscreen with broad spectrum protection—like the Rio Radiance™ collection—to help protect against both UVA and UVB rays.

Advantages of High SPF Sunscreens

So, is more SPF better? It can be! Even though the difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50 is marginal, higher SPF still offers better protection against UVB rays. If you’re spending prolonged time outside, then more sun protection is beneficial.

Consider your skin tone when choosing a sunscreen. If you have fair skin or burn easily, you’ll want to have the highest possible broad-spectrum protection. That being said, those with deeper skin tones still need to wear sunscreen, as they’re also vulnerable to sunburns and premature aging from UVA rays. The takeaway? SPF 30 is solid, but it doesn’t hurt to slather on SPF 50 or higher.

What Are the Limitations and Considerations of High SPF?

Even with a higher SPF, you still have to apply your sunscreen correctly for proper protection. According to Allure, you need about a nickel-sized amount for your face and neck, and two ounces—a.k.a. the amount in a shot glass—to cover your body. For a spray sunscreen, make sure to apply so that it shines on your skin, then rub in so you cover every inch.

Reapplication is just as important. Reapply your sunscreen every two hours, or after swimming, sweating more than usual, or toweling off—whichever comes first. Follow this even if you’re wearing a water-resistant sunscreen formula.

For even more sun protection, dermatologists recommend staying in the shade instead of direct sunlight, as well as wearing hats and UPF clothing when possible.

How to Choose the Right SPF:

Skin tone and type: Those with fair skin will want to look for something with a higher SPF to block out more UV rays, while those with medium to dark skin tones have a bit more flexibility. All Rio Radiance™ formulas are SPF 50. Even though they apply sheer and feel fantastic on skin, they still offer high broad-spectrum protection.
Type of formula: Chalk this up to personal preference. Rio Radiance™ SPF 50 Body Oil is a dry body oil that nourishes skin with patauá oil while pongamia seed extract helps protect skin from environmental aggressors. It also adds a gorgeous sheen to all skin tones thanks to golden mica. If you want a convenient mist sunscreen, we’ve got you. Rio Radiance™ SPF 50 Body Spray offers broad-spectrum protection while hydrating and refreshing with coconut water. It has vitamin C-rich pitanga extract and niacinamide to visibly brighten and help even skin tone. Looking for a classic lotion? Rio Radiance™ SPF Body Lotion is a lightweight, non-greasy 100% mineral sunscreen lotion with cupuaçu butter to lock in moisture.
Activity: Will you be swimming or sweating? Choose a formula that’s water-resistant, like Rio Radiance™ SPF 50 Body Oil and Rio Radiance™ SPF 50 Body Spray which are both water-resistant for up to 40 minutes.
Where you’re applying: You can find dedicated sunscreen formulas for both face and body, plus products like SPF sticks that help target hard-to-reach areas like ears, which are often overlooked.
Location: Will you be in direct sunlight? Is it shady out? Factor where you’re spending time outdoors into your SPF decision. When in doubt, opt for more sun protection than less. If you’re traveling, you can bring a mini with you. Try Rio Radiance™ SPF travel duo for TSA-friendly sizes of our body oil and body spray.

Does higher SPF matter? Yes, but arguably even more important is applying your formula correctly, and choosing one that works for your skin. SPF 30 is the minimum recommended amount, but SPF 50 is even better. And, when the options are as fun as Rio Radiance™ collection—why wouldn’t you wear it every day?