Washington Esthetician State Board Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Prep Resource

Recommending clients to wear protective lotion with a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 is based on established guidelines for effective sun protection. SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures the level of protection sunscreen provides against UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn and can contribute to skin cancer.

An SPF 30 sunscreen filters approximately 97% of UVB rays, which is generally considered sufficient for most individuals when used properly. This level of protection is deemed appropriate for daily wear, especially for people who may spend time outdoors or in sun-exposed environments. Sunscreens with a lower SPF do not provide the same level of protection, as SPF values below 30 allow a higher percentage of UVB rays to reach the skin, increasing the risk of skin damage over time.

Choosing a sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher may provide slightly greater protection, filtering about 98% of UVB rays, but for most daily activities, SPF 30 is typically adequate. Additionally, it is crucial for clients to apply the sunscreen liberally and reapply it every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating, to maintain effective protection regardless of the SPF value.

In short, advising clients to use sunscreen with at least SPF 30