Sunscreen labels differ by country. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the UK's NHS each publish advice. This guide keeps them separate and repeats what they say. For skin conditions or babies, ask a doctor or pharmacist.

This guide is based on the public sources listed at the end. We have not tested the products or services mentioned.

This is a short reference page. The full guide is Sunscreen, Cosmetics and Hair Product Labels: What They Must Show and What to Check.

United States (FDA)

  • Sunscreens are regulated as nonprescription drugs.
  • SPF measures protection against sunburn, mainly UVB. The page says higher numbers (up to 50) offer more protection. SPF reflects the amount of sun exposure, not how many hours you can stay out.
  • Broad spectrum means protection against UVA and UVB. Products that are not broad spectrum, or have SPF below 15, must warn that they only help prevent sunburn, not skin cancer or skin ageing.
  • Water resistant: only tested products can say so, and must state 40 or 80 minutes. "Waterproof" is not allowed.
  • Labels give reapplication directions, usually every two hours and more often after swimming or sweating.
  • With no printed date, treat a sunscreen as expired three years after purchase.
  • Sunscreens bought outside the US may differ from US products, so read the label.
  • Some sprays contain flammable ingredients. Do not spray directly on the face.
  • Check for recalls. Sunscreen is not recommended under six months of age.

United Kingdom (NHS)

  • Choose SPF 30 or higher for UVB, and at least 4-star UVA protection, or a "UVA" logo in a circle, which the NHS says means it meets the EU standard.
  • The open-jar symbol with an "M" and a number shows months of use after opening.
  • An adult covering the whole body needs roughly 6 to 8 teaspoons.
  • Apply 30 minutes before going out if you could burn, and again just before leaving. Reapply about every 2 hours and after swimming, towel drying or sweating.
  • Babies under 6 months should be kept out of strong direct sun.

When ordering online

Check which country's rules the label follows, the size and price per 100 ml, the expiry or open-jar symbol, and the return policy for opened cosmetics. See buying skincare online.

Last checked: 15 October 2026. Sources: US FDA, sunscreen: how to help protect your skin from the sun; NHS, sunscreen and sun safety.