Every summer, pharmacy shelves are overflowing with products bearing a variety of numbers and labels, and it’s not always easy to figure out what’s what. Choosing a sunscreen However, it’s not just a matter of aesthetics: it’s a preventive measure that reduces the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging. Understanding what SPF means, the difference between UVA and UVB rays, the concept of broad-spectrum protection, and the proper way to apply sunscreen helps you make informed choices—for yourself and for your children. Here are some clear guidelines, based on Canadian and Quebec recommendations, for the whole family.
On this page
- What FPS Means
- UVA, UVB, and broad-spectrum
- Choose Based on Your Skin Type
- Amount and Frequency of Application
- Sunscreen for Babies and Children
- Medications and Photosensitivity
- Beyond Sunscreen: Other Forms of Protection
- Myths and Misconceptions
- Frequently asked questions
What FPS Means
Visit FPS, or sun protection factor, measures a product’s ability to filter out ultraviolet B rays, which are the primary cause of sunburn. The number indicates how many times longer the product delays the onset of redness compared to unprotected skin. Please note: this is not a linear scale. A higher SPF does not provide proportionally greater protection, and an impressive number on the packaging is never a substitute for careful application.
How to Read the Numbers
A sunscreen blocks some UVB rays, but never all of them: no product offers complete protection. The differences between high SPFs are actually small in terms of the percentage of rays filtered. The Canadian Cancer Society and the Canadian Dermatology Association generally recommend an SPF of at least 30 for everyday use.
| FPS | Percentage of UVB rays filtered (approximate) |
|---|---|
| FPS 15 | Approximately 93 % |
| SPF 30 | Approximately 97 % |
| SPF 50 | Approximately 98 % |
What the Numbers Don't Tell Us
This chart illustrates why switching from SPF 30 to SPF 50 does not double the protection. In real life, the difference between two products comes down mainly to how they’re used. A family that generously applies SPF 30 every two hours will often be better protected than someone who slathers on a thin layer of SPF 50 in the morning and doesn’t think about it again for the rest of the day. What matters more is the amount applied and how often it’s reapplied—two points discussed in more detail below.
UVA, UVB, and broad-spectrum
Visit ultraviolet radiation The UV rays that reach the skin fall into two broad categories with distinct effects. The SPF tells only part of the story: you also need to take UVA rays into account, which are often overlooked because they don’t cause immediate redness.
Two types of rays, two modes of action
- UVB rays affect the skin's surface and cause sunburn. Their intensity varies depending on the season, the time of day, and the latitude.
- UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin, contribute to skin aging, and also play a role in the risk of skin cancer.
- UVA rays are present year-round, even in winter, and can penetrate clouds and glass, including car windows.
| Features | UVB | UVA |
|---|---|---|
| Depth of Action | Skin surface | Deeper layers |
| Most noticeable effect | Sunburn | Skin Aging |
| Attendance | Varies depending on the season and time of day | All year round, even on cloudy days |
| Go through the windows | Not many | Yes |
The "broad-spectrum" label
The statement broad spectrum indicates that a product protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Health Canada regulates the use of this claim on sunscreens sold in Canada. This is a key selection criterion: a product with a high SPF but no UVA protection leaves the skin vulnerable to aging and to some of the risk of skin cancer. In practice, therefore, look for two things on the label: an SPF of at least 30 and the “broad-spectrum” label.
Key Takeaways
- The SPF primarily measures protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn.
- UVA rays penetrate deeper and are present even on cloudy days or through glass.
- The "broad-spectrum" label guarantees protection against both types of rays.
- An SPF of at least 30 combined with broad-spectrum protection provides a good foundation for daily use.
- No sunscreen blocks 100 % of the sun's rays: it complements other protective measures, but does not replace them.
- Reapplying the product is just as important as the number shown on the bottle.
Choose Based on Your Skin Type
Visit skin type It affects how quickly you burn and how vigilant you need to be, but it never means you don’t need to protect yourself. Fair skin burns more quickly, while dark skin, which contains more melanin, benefits from partial natural protection—though it is not immune to skin damage or skin cancer. The Institut national de santé publique du Québec (INSPQ) also points out that ultraviolet radiation is a preventable risk factor for the entire population.
Guidelines, not hard-and-fast rules
| Skin Type | Sun Trends | Point to Note |
|---|---|---|
| Very clear | Burns easily, tans only slightly | High SPF, diligent reapplication, seeking shade |
| Clear to Intermediate | Sometimes burns, tans gradually | Daily protection, increased vigilance during peak hours |
| Dark | Rarely gets sunburned, tans easily | Protection is still necessary; regular skin checks |
Formulation and Ease of Use
- People with sensitive skin or skin prone to reactions often tolerate so-called "mineral" sunscreens—which contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide—better.
- People with acne-prone skin generally prefer noncomedogenic formulas that don't clog pores.
- Lotions, body milks, sticks, or sprays: the best texture is the one you’re willing to apply generously and regularly.
Ease of application promotes adherence: if you like the texture, you’re more likely to use it. And regardless of skin type, anyone who notices a mole that’s changing, a lesion that won’t heal, or any other skin abnormality should have it evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Amount and Frequency of Application
Visit amount applied is the most commonly overlooked factor. Most people apply too little, which significantly reduces the actual protection compared to the SPF listed on the packaging. Applying sunscreen properly is just as important as choosing the right one. For an adult wearing a swimsuit, you’ll need about two to three tablespoons of product to cover the entire body.
Good Habits
- Apply generously to all exposed areas about 15 to 30 minutes before going outside.
- Don't forget the areas that are often overlooked: ears, the nape of the neck, the tops of the feet, thinning scalp, and the lips—use a suitable balm.
- Reapply every two hours, and more often after swimming or heavy sweating.
- Reapply the product after drying off with a towel, even if it is water-resistant.
- Check the expiration date: Expired sunscreen loses its effectiveness.
Water-resistant does not mean waterproof
The term “water-resistant,” which is also regulated by Health Canada, means that the product remains effective for a limited time in water—usually 40 or 80 minutes, depending on the label—not indefinitely. After swimming, sweating, or drying off with a towel, you must reapply—period. An afternoon at the beach or water park therefore requires several applications, regardless of what the bottle says.
| Situation | Recommended Reapplication Frequency |
|---|---|
| A typical day outdoors | Every two hours |
| Swimming or water sports | After each time you get out of the water |
| Intense physical activity | After sweating profusely |
| Towel Drying | Immediately afterward |
Are you concerned about a skin lesion, a mole that’s changing, or an unusual reaction to the sun? Rather than waiting, have a professional evaluate the situation. You can set up a meeting at one of our service locations in Quebec or choose a online consultation as a first step. Employers who wish to incorporate sun protection into their occupational health program can also consult our Business Offerings.
Sunscreen for Babies and Children
Visit toddlers' skin is thinner and more vulnerable, which makes protecting children particularly important. Sunburns sustained during childhood increase the risk of skin cancer later in life, which is why it’s important to establish good habits early on. However, recommendations vary depending on age.
Within six months
- The Canadian Pediatric Society recommends keeping babies under six months of age in the shade and out of direct sunlight.
- We recommend lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and a stroller equipped with a sunshade.
- Sunscreen can be used on small areas that are difficult to cover, but shade and clothing remain the first line of defense.
After six months
You can use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, in addition to clothing and shade. Mineral-based formulas are often well tolerated by children’s skin. Apply generously and reapply regularly, just as you would for adults, paying special attention to the ears, the back of the neck, and the tops of the feet—areas that are often overlooked when little ones are squirming. If you have any questions about a specific product or a child with sensitive skin, a healthcare professional or pharmacist can advise you.
Medications and Photosensitivity
Some medications cause a photosensitivity, which is an exaggerated reaction of the skin to the sun. Exposure that is normally harmless can then lead to redness, rashes, or severe sunburn. This condition is often misunderstood, and many people learn about it the hard way during the first hot days of the Quebec summer.
Affected drug classes
Certain antibiotics, particularly those in the tetracycline and quinolone families, certain diuretics and medications for high blood pressure, as well as certain anti-inflammatory drugs, antifungals, and dermatological treatments may be responsible. This list is not exhaustive and does not refer to any specific individual situation. If you are taking a medication, the best course of action is to check with your pharmacist or doctor to see if any special precautions regarding sun exposure are necessary. Never change your treatment on your own.
Useful Precautions
- Be extra careful about sun protection during photosensitizing treatment.
- Stay in the shade, wear loose-fitting clothing, and go out during the cooler parts of the day.
- Report any unusual skin reactions that occur during treatment to a healthcare professional.
Beyond Sunscreen: Other Forms of Protection
L’sunscreen is just one tool among many. A comprehensive sun protection strategy combines several measures, because no product can replace common sense when it comes to the sun. Think of a day of canoeing in July: the water reflects the sun’s rays, the breeze masks the heat, and sunburn sets in without warning despite the sunscreen applied at the start.
Additional Measures
- Seek out shade, especially during the hours when the sun is at its strongest, usually around midday.
- Wear clothing that covers your skin, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses.
- Check the UV index, published by Environment and Climate Change Canada, to adjust your activities accordingly.
- Be wary of reflective surfaces such as water, sand, or concrete, which increase exposure, as does snow in the spring.
| UV Index | Level | Recommended Course of Action |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 2 | Weak | Minimal protection for most people |
| 3 to 5 | Moderate | Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are recommended |
| 6 to 7 | Raised | Protection needed; shade at midday |
| 8 to 10 | Very high | Enhanced protection, limit exposure |
| 11 and older | Extreme | Avoid the midday sun as much as possible |
Keep an eye on your skin
Regular skin self-exams help detect suspicious changes early. Look for the appearance or changes in a mole, a lesion that won’t heal, or an unusual spot. If you have any doubts, a healthcare professional can assess the situation and determine whether follow-up is necessary.
Myths and Misconceptions
People with dark skin don't need sunscreen
False. Dark skin provides some natural protection, but it is still vulnerable to UV-related damage and is not immune to skin cancer. Sun protection is recommended for all skin types, without exception.
On cloudy days, there's no risk
False. A significant amount of UV radiation passes through clouds. You can still get sunburned on a cloudy day, especially in the summer. Caution is advised whenever the UV index is moderate or high.
An SPF of 50 eliminates the need to reapply
False. No sunscreen eliminates the need to reapply. The product wears off with sweat, swimming, and the passage of time. Reapply every two hours, regardless of the number listed on the bottle.
A tan protects the skin
Nuanced. A tan offers minimal protection, but it is primarily a sign of skin damage that has already been caused by UV rays. It is not a substitute for proper protection and is not a health goal.
Just one application in the morning is enough for the whole day
False. Protection wears off over time and with activity. Applying sunscreen once in the morning isn't enough to protect you for an entire day in the sun. Regular reapplication is what really keeps the product effective.
Frequently asked questions
Which FPS should you choose for everyday use?
A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is a good everyday choice for most people. The key is to apply enough of it and reapply it regularly, rather than relying solely on a higher SPF number.
What is the difference between UVA and UVB rays?
UVB rays act on the skin's surface and cause sunburn, while UVA rays penetrate deeper and contribute to skin aging. Both types of rays play a role in the risk of skin cancer, which is why a broad-spectrum product is important.
Should you put sunscreen on a baby?
Before six months of age, it’s best to rely on shade and protective clothing rather than sunscreen. After six months, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 can be used in addition to these measures. A pharmacist or healthcare professional can recommend a suitable product.
Can my medication make my skin more sensitive to the sun?
Certain medications can cause photosensitivity. Since this varies depending on the medication and the individual, it’s best to check with your pharmacist or doctor to see if any special precautions regarding sun exposure apply to your situation.
How often should you reapply sunscreen?
As a general rule, every two hours—and more often after swimming, heavy sweating, or drying off with a towel. Even water-resistant products should be reapplied regularly.
When should I see a doctor about my skin?
If you notice a mole that changes in size, shape, or color, a lesion that won’t heal, or any other persistent skin abnormality, it’s wise to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional, either in person or via a teleconsultation.
Sources
- Canadian Dermatology Association — Sun Protection
- Canadian Cancer Society — Stay Safe in the Sun
- Health Canada — Sunscreens and UV Protection
- Quebec National Institute of Public Health (INSPQ) — Ultraviolet Radiation
- Canadian Paediatric Society — Sun Protection
- Environment and Climate Change Canada — UV Index
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