Sun protection fact check: UV filter, sun protection factor & myths at a glance

19 May 2025

How does sunscreen protect against UV radiation?
Sunscreens use special UV filters that protect your skin from the harmful effects of sun exposure – such as sunburn, premature skin aging, and pigmentation spots.

They are a key part of modern skincare, especially in summer or when spending more time in the sun. But how exactly does this protection work?

There are basically two types of UV filters that are used in sun creams:

Chemical UV filters Physical UV filters
  • They penetrate the uppermost layer of the skin.
  • Absorb UV rays and convert them into heat
  • Particularly effective against UV-B and sometimes also UV-A rays.
  • They lie on the surface of the skin.
  • Reflect & scatter UV rays on the skin surface
  • Protection spectrum: depending on the combination UV-A and UV-B possible

What does SPF (Sun Protection Factor) mean?
SPF measures protection against UVB rays – the ones that cause sunburn. It indicates how much longer you can stay in the sun without damaging your skin.

Example:
Your natural protection time is around 10 minutes (depending on your skin type).
With SPF 30:
10 minutes × 30 = 300 minutes of sun protection

Important:
This is a theoretical value. Experts recommend using only 60 % of it – around 180 minutes with SPF 30.

What you should know:

  • Reapplying sunscreen maintains protection but doesn’t extend it.

  • No sunscreen offers 100 % protection – use shade, protective clothing, and a hat.

Fact Check: The Biggest Myths About Sunscreen
Despite growing awareness, many myths about sunscreen and UV protection persist. Here are the most common sunscreen myths – and the truth behind them:

Myth 1: "I only need sunscreen when the sun is shining."
❌ False: UV rays penetrate clouds – even on overcast days, your skin can be damaged.
Fact: Daily sun protection is essential – even in spring, autumn, or under diffuse light.

Myth 2: "One application lasts all day."
❌ False: Sweating, friction, and water reduce effectiveness.
Fact: Reapply every 2 hours – especially after swimming or physical activity.

Myth 3: "Sunscreen prevents tanning."
❌ False: Sunscreen protects from sunburn, but not from a healthy tan.
Fact: You still tan with SPF – more gradually, evenly, and safely.

Myth 4: "I have dark skin, so I don’t need sunscreen."
❌ False: Darker skin tones can still suffer UV damage.
Fact: Every skin type needs sun protection – especially to prevent aging and long-term skin issues.

Face Guard Advanced – your everyday skin defender
Powerful yet lightweight: Face Guard Advanced by Janssen Cosmetics offers daily UV protection for your face – perfect for everyday use and all skin types.

  • Broad-spectrum UVA + UVB protection

  • IR protection

  • Ectoin® for cellular defense

  • Shields against oxidative stress

  • Slows photo-induced skin aging

  • Lightweight, breathable texture

  • Suitable for all skin types and compatible with any day cream

Professional sun protection for the body
To effectively protect your skin from sunburn, premature aging, and dark spots, professional sun care is essential. Our Sun Protection Spray SPF 30 and High Protection Sun Care SPF 50 provide broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection – perfect for everyday use.

  • High protection against UVA and UVB rays

  • Helps prevent UV-induced skin damage (e.g. sunburn)

  • Reduces the risk of unwanted pigmentation

  • Slows photoaging (e.g. wrinkle formation)

  • Shields against oxidative stress caused by blue light and IR-A rays

  • Ideal for sensitive or sun-reactive skin areas

  • Lightweight texture that absorbs quickly

Soothing care after sun exposure
After a day in the sun, your skin needs more than just rest – it needs targeted care. The After Sun Lotion from Janssen Cosmetics is a calming emulsion that effectively reduces redness, heat sensation, and moisture loss. Natural active ingredients support the regeneration of sun-stressed skin, provide a pleasant cooling effect, and help prevent premature aging and peeling.

For long-lasting, even tan and a smooth, well-cared-for skin feeling – every day after sun exposure.

  • Supports the skin’s natural repair system

  • Cooling and relaxing care

  • Promotes an even, long-lasting tan

  • Soothes and refreshes sun-stressed skin

  • Leaves skin noticeably soft and smooth