What does SPF in sunscreen stand for?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, which is a crucial term in the realm of skincare and sun safety. This measurement indicates the level of protection a sunscreen provides against UVB rays, the type of ultraviolet radiation primarily responsible for sunburn and contributing to skin cancer.

The numerical value associated with SPF informs consumers how long they can theoretically stay in the sun without getting burned compared to using no sunscreen at all. For example, an SPF of 30 means that a person could stay in the sun 30 times longer without burning than they would without any protection.

This emphasizes the importance of using sunscreen with a suitable SPF level to help prevent skin damage, premature aging, and skin cancers associated with UV exposure. The other choices, while close in wording, do not accurately define the standard measure used in sunscreen labeling and protection. They may cause confusion regarding the specific role and efficacy of different products.