The hat is ready, as is the sunscreen. The tube has a large number, a few plus signs and maybe a small UVA in a circle. Actually, you just want to go outside well prepared. It’s worth taking a moment to sort this information out.

Sun protection can be adapted to your day: the trip to the market, gardening or an afternoon by the water. The cream takes over part of this. Clothing, shade and the time you spend in the sun are also part of it.

First look at the day, then at the tube

The temperature tells you little about UV exposure. The UV index for your location is more helpful. It describes how strong the UV radiation that causes sunburn is. From a value of 3 , the World Health Organization recommends protective measures: seek shade, cover skin with clothing and apply cream to uncovered areas. A wide-brimmed hat and matching sunglasses complete this. WHO: Protection against UV radiation

You can find the local forecast, for example, at the German Weather Service . This is particularly useful if you want to stay outside longer. Just looking at the thermometer can easily lead you in the wrong direction on a cool, clear day.

A spot under a tree or parasol is pleasant, but does not offer complete UV protection. Scattered and reflected radiation also reaches the skin. It therefore makes sense to use several protective measures together.

What SPF, UVA and PA mean

SPF is the English abbreviation for Sun Protection Factor, in German sun protection factor , or SPF for short. The number describes the protection against sunburn-causing radiation, primarily UVB, measured under specified test conditions. SPF 50 cannot be used to calculate safe hours in the sun for you. Quantity, application, abrasion and actual load differ from the experiment. The EU Recommendation 2006/647/EC explains the protection assessment and its limits.

For UVA you look for an additional label:

The UVA circle is explained by the Bavarian State Office for Health and Food Safety . The PA classification is described in the JCIA standards for SPF and UVA protection . The characters use different scales; PA++++ cannot therefore simply be equated with the UVA circle.

For practical selection, the WHO recommends sun protection with at least SPF 30 and protection against UVA and UVB . The second article in this series deals with which texture and type of product might suit you: Which sunscreen suits your skin and your everyday life?

The amount belongs to the protection factor

During the test, two milligrams of product are applied per square centimeter of skin . If significantly less ends up on the skin, the stated protection will not simply continue to be available. The number on the tube cannot compensate for a layer that is too thin.

The Federal Office for Radiation Protection provides clear guidance for whole-body use in adults: A 200 ml bottle is sufficient about five times , i.e. around 40 ml per application. The amount required also depends on your body size and the areas to be creamed. This is an order of magnitude for the body, not a measurement for the face. BfS: Use sunscreen sufficiently

On the face, the ears, hairline and neck quickly receive less attention than the cheeks. Take some time to apply it evenly to the uncovered areas. If you find the generously applied cream unpleasant, a different texture is worth trying. Continuing to reduce the quantity would not be a good solution.

Before going out and during the day

Apply sunscreen before exposure to the sun and pay attention to the time interval specified in your package. This makes applying lotion a part of the preparation, rather than something that only occurs after the first hour at the lake.

When staying outside, the BfS recommends to reapply at least every two hours , especially after bathing and drying off. In such situations, don’t wait for the clock. The two-hour specification is not a promise that the shift will remain unchanged for that long under all conditions. BfS: Use sun protection correctly

Re-applying cream maintains or renews the protective film. It does not reset the UV exposure your skin has already received. The dose also adds up when the skin is moisturized; The LGL ​​explains this in its sun protection FAQs . An additional layer is therefore no reason to extend your stay in the sun.

A creamy option for everyday life

The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics, 50 ml is a product example with SPF50+ PA++++ . If you’re looking for a sunscreen with a moisturizing, creamy skin feel, you can include this texture in your selection. The manufacturer sees it as the last step in basic care.

You may also come across the name Rice + Niacinamide . Beauty of Joseon describes this as a rebrand with the same formula and size. This is how you can classify the other name; The list of ingredients and instructions still apply to your specific tube. Beauty of Joseon: Relief Sun and the new name

For swimming or sweaty sports, an expressly waterproof sunscreen is the right choice. No such feature is guaranteed for this Relief Sun. The manufacturer recommends a waterproof product for these activities. A high protection factor alone does not answer the question of waterproofness.

If you are drawn to the sea, our existing article How mermaids care for their skin will take you to the Haenyeo and general tips for sun, salt and water care.

And when summer is over?

A winter jacket does not automatically stop UV exposure. Sun height, location, height and reflective surfaces change the situation; Snow can significantly increase the load. Even clouds are not reliable and complete protection. The WHO explains the influences on UV radiation .

Therefore, keep an eye on the UV index and your planned stay. You need different preparation for a long day in the mountains than for a short trip with low UV exposure. This turns a blanket calendar rule into a decision that fits your actual day.

What we know for sure

• SPF or SPF and UVA information describe different aspects of protection.
• The test quantity is 2 mg/cm²; applying sparingly can significantly reduce protection.
• Re-applying cream does not reset the UV exposure already received.
• Water resistance needs its own label. Clothing and shade remain part of sun protection.

Sources

• WHO: Radiation – Protecting against skin cancer
• German Weather Service: UV index forecast
• European Commission: Recommendation 2006/647/EC on the effectiveness of sunscreens and related manufacturer information
• Bavarian LGL: Questions and answers about sunscreens
• Japan Cosmetic Industry Association: Standards on SPF, PA and water resistance
• Federal Office for Radiation Protection: Sun cream
• Beauty of Joseon: Relief Sun, labeling and application
• WHO: Radiation – Ultraviolet radiation

Technical and product information checked on September 8, 2026. The labeling and instructions for your specific pack are decisive.

If you are annoyed by dark pimple marks, daily sun protection is an important part of your care for pigment spots . A serum for a more even-looking complexion can complement your routine – but it does not provide UV protection.