The Ultimate Sunscreen Guide – Everything you need to know about SPF, UV rays, shelf life, and the right protection

The sun is fantastic, but its UV rays can harm the skin if it's not properly protected. That's why sunscreen is an important part of skincare – both in Denmark and on holiday.

However, many are unsure about which sunscreen to choose. What does SPF actually mean? Is mineral sunscreen better than chemical? Can you use last year's sunscreen, and how long does it last?

In this guide, you'll find answers to the most common questions about sunscreen. We cover everything from SPF and UVA/UVB protection to shelf life, storage, and how to choose the sunscreen that best suits your needs.

What is SPF?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and indicates how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which are the type of rays that primarily cause sunburn.

The higher the SPF, the better the protection – but the difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50 is smaller than many people think.

The most important thing is not necessarily to choose the highest SPF, but to use enough sunscreen and remember to reapply it.

💡 Did you know?
Most people only use about half of the recommended amount of sunscreen. Therefore, many do not achieve the protection stated on the packaging.

UVA and UVB – what's the difference?

The sun emits different types of UV rays.

UVB

• Is the primary cause of sunburn.
• Is strongest in summer.
• Affects the outermost layer of the skin.

UVA

• Penetrates deeper into the skin.
• Contributes to premature skin aging.
• Present all year round – even on cloudy days.

A good sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB.

SPF 15, 30 or 50 – which should you choose?

The choice depends on your skin type and how long you stay in the sun.

SPF 15

• For shorter periods in the sun.
• Suitable for low UV exposure.

SPF 30

• A good choice for most summer days in Denmark.
• Provides high protection with correct use.

SPF 50

• Suitable for fair skin.
• Recommended for beach holidays, southern destinations, and longer periods in the sun.
• Good for children and people who easily get red.

Mineral or chemical sunscreen – what's the difference?

There are fundamentally two types of sunscreen: mineral and chemical. Both effectively protect against the sun, but they work in different ways.

Mineral sunscreen

Mineral sunscreens typically contain:

• Zinc Oxide
• Titanium Dioxide

Advantages

• Good for sensitive skin.
• Often contains few active UV filters.
• Provides broad protection against UVA and UVB.

Disadvantages

• Can have a thicker consistency.
• May leave a slight white cast.

Chemical sunscreen

Chemical sunscreens contain organic UV filters that absorb UV rays and protect the skin.

Advantages

• Light consistency.
• Absorbs quickly.
• Usually leaves no white marks.

Disadvantages

• Can be irritating for some individuals with very sensitive skin.

How to tell the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen

Look at the front

If it says: Mineral Sunscreen, 100% Mineral, Mineral Face SPF, or Mineral Body SPF – then the product is mineral.

Look at the ingredient list

Mineral UV filters: Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide

Chemical UV filters can include: Avobenzone, Octocrylene, Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T150, Tinosorb S, Tinosorb M

💡 Did you know?
Many manufacturers clearly state "Mineral" on the front of the packaging. If the product does not, the ingredient list can quickly reveal what type of sunscreen it is.

How much sunscreen should you use?

The recommended amount is:

• Face and neck: approx. one teaspoon.
• Entire body: approx. 30-40 ml – equivalent to about a shot glass.

If you use less, the actual protection will be significantly lower than the SPF stated on the packaging.

How often should you apply sunscreen?

Apply sunscreen:

• Approximately 20 minutes before going out in the sun.
• Every two hours.
• After swimming.
• After heavy sweating.
• After towel drying.

Can you get a tan with sunscreen?

Yes. Sunscreen does not block all UV radiation. You can still get a tan, but your skin is exposed to less damage, and the risk of sunburn is reduced.

Can you get sunburned with SPF 50?

Yes. This is often due to:

• Using too little sunscreen.
• Forgetting to reapply sunscreen.
• Staying in the sun for a very long time.
• The sunscreen being too old or stored incorrectly.

No sunscreen provides 100% protection.

How long does sunscreen last?

Unopened sunscreen typically lasts up to 3 years from the production date if stored correctly. However, the precise shelf life can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.

Once opened, you should follow the symbol with the open jar – for example, 12M. This means the product is recommended for use within 12 months after opening.

Can you use last year's sunscreen?

Yes – if:

• it has not expired
• it has been stored correctly
• it still smells and looks normal

If it has changed smell, color, or consistency, or if it has been stored for a long time in intense heat, it should be replaced.

💡 Did you know?
A sunscreen that has been in a hot car or direct sunlight all summer can lose some of its protective effect.

How to store sunscreen correctly

To maintain product quality, it is recommended to:

• Store sunscreen as cool as possible.
• Avoid direct sunlight for extended periods.
• Close the packaging tightly after use.
• Avoid prolonged storage at very high temperatures.

Sunscreen for children

Children's skin is more sensitive to UV rays than adults'. In addition to sunscreen, it is recommended:

• Shade in the middle of the day.
• UV swimwear.
• Sun hat.
• Sunglasses.

Sunscreen for face or body?

You can certainly use regular sunscreen on your face, but many choose a facial sunscreen because it often:

• Feels lighter.
• Is less greasy.
• Is developed for facial skin.
• Works well under makeup.

5 myths about sunscreen

1. "I won't get a tan with SPF 50"
Incorrect. You can still get a tan – your skin will simply be better protected.

2. "I don't need sunscreen when it's cloudy"
Incorrect. A large part of UV rays penetrate clouds.

3. "One application lasts all day"
Incorrect. Sunscreen needs to be reapplied regularly.

4. "Dark skin doesn't need sunscreen"
Incorrect. All skin types can be damaged by UV radiation.

5. "Last year's sunscreen always works"
Not necessarily. Shelf life and correct storage are very important.

Frequently asked questions

Is SPF 30 enough?
Yes, for most people – if used correctly and reapplied throughout the day.

What does the UVA symbol in a circle mean?
It means the sunscreen meets EU requirements for UVA protection.

Should you use sunscreen in the shade?
Yes. UV rays are reflected from sand, water, and light surfaces, among others.

Should you use sunscreen in winter?
In high UV exposure – for example, on a skiing holiday or in mountainous areas – it's a good idea.

Can sunscreen go bad?
Yes. Keep an eye on the expiration date, the open jar symbol (e.g., 12M), and whether the product has changed smell, color, or consistency.

Our recommendation

The best sunscreen is the one you want to use – every day. Whether you choose a mineral or chemical sunscreen, the most important thing is that it suits your skin type, is used in the recommended amount, and reapplied regularly.

At OutletNordics, you'll find a selection of quality sunscreens from reputable brands at outlet prices, so you can protect your skin without compromising on quality.