While it would stand to reason that a higher SPF provides better protection, reality tells a different story. According to the Environmental Working Group, a product’s SPF rating doesn’t really take into consideration its ability to protect from UVA rays. It may protect the skin from burning, but it isn’t always protecting the skin from other types of sun damage. There is also the fact that many people don’t reapply, as they’re given a false sense of security from a high SPF. Studies also show that not all products deliver the SPF they promise. Says HydroPeptide’s Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip, M.D, “Consumer Reports's 2016 sunscreen guidelines demonstrated that several sunscreen brands did not provide the sun protection factor listed on the label in laboratory and clinical trials.”
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