Why sunscreen is important
The sun’s UV rays have both positive and negative effects on the skin. While the body needs vitamin D from the sun, unprotected skin can be damaged by both UVA and UVB rays. That is why daily sun protection is important, especially when the UV index is above 3.
Broad-spectrum protection
Sun protection should never be random. At Rudolph Care, we are dedicated to creating effective broad-spectrum SPF combined with nourishing, active skincare that delivers visible benefits for the skin.
When sun protection is broad-spectrum, it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays penetrate the surface of the skin and cause sunburn and cellular damage, while UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and can lead to photoaging, pigmentation changes and reduced elasticity.
As a rule of thumb, always choose broad-spectrum protection. On Rudolph Care sunscreen packaging, you can always identify broad-spectrum protection through logos that clearly indicate UVA and UVB protection.
UV rays vs. vitamin D
According to the Danish Cancer Society, most people produce sufficient vitamin D when they spend time outdoors in the middle of the day, even when wearing sunscreen.
But how long should you stay in the sun to produce enough vitamin D? It is a persistent myth that you need prolonged sun exposure. In fact, 10 to 20 minutes a day, three times a week, is enough, even when wearing sunscreen.
The skin produces vitamin D as long as it is needed and stops when the body’s stores are filled. During winter, the body uses these stores when the skin cannot produce vitamin D from sunlight.
If winter is long and dark, and you do not get enough vitamin D through your diet, supplementation may be necessary until sunlight returns and your body’s stores can be replenished.
Overall, it is a misunderstanding that you should avoid sunscreen to produce enough vitamin D. The body still produces vitamin D even when sunscreen is applied. Source: https://www.cancer.dk/forebyg-kraeft/sol/beskyt-din-hud/d-vitamin-trods-solbeskyttelse/
How to choose the right sunscreen
Your choice of sunscreen depends on several factors. You may need sunscreen for the face, sunscreen for the body, sunscreen for children, or protection for active days in the sun. Your skin’s tolerance and the intensity of the sun also play a role.
Rudolph Care sunscreens cover all SPF needs from SPF 15, 25, 30 and 50 and can be used by all skin types.
How much protection do different SPF levels provide?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and indicates how much protection a sunscreen provides against UVB rays. SPF 15 blocks approximately 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks approximately 97%, and SPF 50 blocks approximately 98%.
What about UVA protection? That is included as well. Our sunscreens provide broad-spectrum protection, meaning they include at least one third UVA protection and meet a minimum wavelength of 370 nm, in line with EU recommendations for optimal UVA and UVB protection.
Which SPF should you choose?
The official recommendation from the Danish Health Authority is SPF 30 in Denmark. Many other European countries recommend at least SPF 30 as well.
Previously, SPF 15 was considered sufficient in Denmark if applied in adequate amounts. However, studies show that people typically apply only one third to one half of the recommended amount. Therefore, SPF 30 is now recommended, as it provides better protection even when too little is applied.
At Rudolph Care, we still offer SPF 15. Our recommendation remains the same regardless of SPF: use the correct amount. One teaspoon for the face and a full handful for the body. Because this is a generous amount, it can be helpful to divide it into two applications for better absorption.
When going to the beach, when UV levels are high, or when the sun is reflected by water or sand, we always recommend a high SPF, preferably SPF 50.
Always keep babies and small children out of direct sunlight.
Sunscreen SPF 50
SPF 50 provides high protection, making it ideal for children, sensitive skin, intense sun conditions and extended outdoor activities.
High SPF is often associated with a rich and greasy texture that is difficult to apply. This is not a compromise we accept. All our high-SPF products, both SPF 30 and 50, are easy to apply without feeling greasy, sticky or leaving a white cast.
Products with SPF 50:
• Sun Balm SPF 50: A rich, caring balm for face and body. Water and sweat resistant, fragrance-free and fast absorbing. Ideal for active days for both children and adults.
• Sun Stick SPF 50: Easy to apply on lips and exposed areas. Fragrance-free and practical on the go.
• Kids Sun Lotion SPF 50: Gentle sun lotion created for children, but suitable for anyone who prefers a mild formula.
• Sun Body Lotion SPF 50: Combines nourishing body lotion with broad-spectrum sun protection.
• Sun Face Cream SPF 50: Day cream with high SPF that provides dewy radiance and nourishment from active natural ingredients.
Sunscreen SPF 30
SPF 30 also provides high protection, although slightly lower than SPF 50. SPF 30 protects 97% and SPF 50 protects 98%.
Products with SPF 30:
• Kids Sun Lotion SPF 30: Gentle sun lotion created for children, but suitable for anyone who prefers a mild formula.
• Sun Body Lotion SPF 30: Combines nourishing body lotion with broad-spectrum sun protection.
• Sun Face Cream SPF 30: Day cream with high SPF that provides dewy radiance and nourishment from active natural ingredients.
• Sun Face Serum SPF 30 with niacinamide and protection against UV rays and blue light
Sunscreen for the face
Rudolph Care facial sunscreens are day creams with SPF. We do not compromise on performance, scent or texture. Our facial sunscreens combine reliable SPF with active care from natural ingredients.
Our sun protection for the face:
• Sun Face Cream SPF 15, 30 & 50
• Sun Face Serum SPF 30
• Sun Face Oil SPF 25
• Sun Balm SPF 50
• Sun Stick SPF 50
Apply 30 minutes before sun exposure and use one teaspoon for the entire face.
Sunscreen for children
Children’s skin is thinner and more sensitive, requiring gentle protection. Our sunscreens are easy to apply and absorb quickly so children can continue playing.
Sunscreen suitable for children:
• Kids Sun Lotion SPF 30 & 50
• Sun Balm SPF 50
• Sun Stick SPF 50
Always keep babies and small children out of direct sunlight.
Fragrance-free sunscreen
Fragrance-free sunscreen is a good choice for children and sensitive skin. Many pregnant and breastfeeding women also prefer fragrance-free formulas.
Fragrance-free products:
• Sun Balm SPF 50
• Sun Stick SPF 50
• Kids Sun Lotion SPF 30 & 50
Rudolph Care sun products
At Rudolph Care, we are proud of our approach to sun protection. We use five chemical UV filters that meet EU recommendations for optimal UVA and UVB protection and are approved by the Nordic Swan Ecolabel:
• Ethylhexyl Triazone – chemical UVB filter
• Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate – chemical UVA filter
• Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone – chemical UVB filter
• Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine – oil-soluble UVA filter with synergistic effect
• Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine – water-soluble UVA filter with synergistic effect
The word “chemical” may sound negative, but when carefully selected, these filters are safe and effective. Chemical filters are controlled, meaning we have full knowledge of the content and performance. They also do not feel greasy, sticky or leave a white cast.
Sun products with respect for the ocean
Few people consider how the products we apply daily affect the ocean water we swim in. When you use Rudolph Care sun products, you can be sure that the UV filters benzophenone-3 and ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate are not on the ingredient list. These filters are suspected endocrine disruptors, and recent studies show they alter coral DNA and cause hormonal disruption, leading young corals to die.
If you run out of sunscreen on holiday and do not have Rudolph Care within reach, check whether benzophenone-3 or ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate appear on the ingredient list. They may also be listed as oxybenzone and octinoxate.
Tips for using sunscreen
The most important thing when using sunscreen is applying enough.
Additional tips:
• Apply generously, a handful for the body and one teaspoon for the face, 30 minutes before sun exposure
• Shade, sunhat, sunscreen
• Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating
• Store sunscreen in the shade
• Choose SPF based on skin type, sun intensity and activity
Certified sun products
Rudolph Care sunscreens are Nordic Swan Ecolabel certified and developed with a high content of natural and organic ingredients that strengthen the skin barrier and protect against UVA and UVB rays.
Kids Sun Lotion SPF 30 and 50 are also AllergyCertified, ensuring gentle products for children, pregnant and breastfeeding women.
It is a core value for Rudolph Care to care for both people and nature. Independent third-party certifications ensure that our products meet strict requirements.
FAQ – Sunscreen
Which sunscreen is best?
The best sunscreen is the one you use consistently and in sufficient amounts. Our most popular products are Sun Balm SPF 50, Sun Face Cream SPF 30, Sun Face Serum SPF 30 and Sun Body Lotion SPF 30.
Is SPF 50 better than SPF 30?
SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks 97%. SPF 50 therefore provides slightly higher protection. UVA protection meets EU recommendations with at least one third UVA protection and minimum wavelength of 370 nm.
Can you still tan with SPF 50?
Yes. SPF 50 blocks most UV rays, but not all, so you can still develop a tan while being better protected.
Which sunscreens should you avoid?
Choose sunscreen that feels comfortable and avoids unwanted ingredients. The Nordic Swan Ecolabel is a helpful guide, as it sets strict independent requirements across the product lifecycle.
What does the Danish Health Authority recommend?
Use at least SPF 30, whether in Denmark or abroad.
Can aftersun replace sunscreen?
No. Aftersun soothes and cools but does not protect against UV rays.
How long does sunscreen last after opening?
Rudolph Care sun products last 6 months after opening. Unopened products last approximately 2 to 2.5 years.