Sunscreen for Your Scalp, Ears, and Other Forgotten Spots
The high-risk areas most people forget to cover.
SPF 30 lets through about 50% more UVB than SPF 50 (3% vs 2%).
No sunscreen blocks 100% of UV, which is why reapplication matters more than chasing a higher SPF.
Frequently asked questions
Does a higher SPF mean more protection?
Only marginally. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB, SPF 50 about 98%, and SPF 100 about 99% — and no sunscreen blocks 100%. Applying enough and reapplying matters far more than chasing a high number, and SPF says nothing about UVA protection.
What is the two-finger rule for sunscreen?
The two-finger rule is a simple guide: squeeze sunscreen in two lines along your index and middle fingers, base to tip, to cover the face and neck. It approximates the research-backed amount (about a quarter to half teaspoon) that most people otherwise under-apply.
Does sunscreen fully prevent tanning?
No. A tan is the skin's response to DNA damage, and because no sunscreen blocks 100% of UV — and most people under-apply — some tanning can still occur. Sunscreen reduces the damage, but there is no safe tan from the sun.
r/AsianBeauty: 'Am I using way too little sunscreen on my face?'
Sources & citations
- FeelGoodPal, 'SPF Explained: What SPF 30, 50 and 100 Mean'
- feelgoodpal.com ↗