What is Broad Spectrum Sunscreen? (and Why You Need it)

May 01, 2026

By: Lauren Sindel

What is broad spectrum sunscreen | Side-by-side display features a woman with wet hair and sun-kissed skin at edge of pool and a close-up of a hand holding a bottle of Truly Solar Baby SPF 45 invisible sunscreen oil over shimmering turquoise water.

Some sunscreens only protect you from sunburn, but not from deeper skin damage.

Broad spectrum sunscreen is a type of sunscreen that shields your skin from both UVA (skin aging) and UVB (sunburn) rays.
Studies show that consistent use of broad spectrum sunscreen helps reduce the risk of skin cancer, sunburns, and premature skin aging.
Our favorite broad spectrum sunscreen is Truly’s Solar Baby SPF 45 Invisible Sunscreen Oil, a lightweight body oil with UVA/UVB filters that leaves you glowing (but never greasy).

Not all sunscreens are broad spectrum. If you want to reduce your risk of sunburn and visible signs of aging, you need a sunscreen that filters both UVA and UVB rays — and that’s exactly what broad spectrum sunscreen does.

What is Broad Spectrum Sunscreen?

Broad spectrum sunscreens protect your skin from both UVA and UVB radiation. Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays cause premature skin aging like fine lines and hyperpigmentation, while ultraviolet B (UVB) rays cause sunburns.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 95% of UV radiation that reaches us comes from UVA rays. However, both types of UV rays can damage the skin’s DNA which can lead to skin cancer.

Why Use Broad Spectrum Sunscreen?

Not all sunscreens are broad spectrum. Some only protect against UVB rays, which cause sunburn, but leave your skin vulnerable to UVA rays that penetrate deeper and contribute to premature aging and skin cancer.

Using a broad spectrum sunscreen ensures your skin is protected from both types of UV damage. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), everyone should use a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to help protect against sunburn, early skin aging, and skin cancer.

With a broad-spectrum sunscreen like Solar Baby SPF 45 Invisible Sunscreen Oil, you’ll actually enjoy wearing sunscreen daily. It’s hydrating, glow-enhancing, and smells like paradise.

Shop Broad Spectrum Sunscreen

Solar Baby SPF 45 Invisible Sunscreen Oil

Hydrate + Glow with Vitamin C

Looking for a silky, invisible sunscreen with 45+ coverage? You’ll love the Solar Baby SPF 45 Invisible Sunscreen Oil, a broad-spectrum formula that protects against UVA and UVB rays while leaving your skin looking gorgeously glowing.

Solar Baby is skincare meets suncare. Its luxe texture melts into skin without leaving you feeling greasy. Enriched with vitamin C and bakuchiol, it helps to visibly brighten and improve skin tone while maximizing sun protection.

For full ingredients list, directions, and usage information, see here.

How to Choose the Best Broad Spectrum Sunscreen

Choosing the right broad spectrum sunscreen is important for keeping your skin safe while also ensuring it fits your lifestyle so you’ll use it consistently. Here’s what to look for:

1. Make Sure It Says “Broad Spectrum”

This is non-negotiable. A sunscreen labeled “broad spectrum” protects against both UVA (aging, long-term damage) and UVB (burning) rays. Without this label, you’re not getting full protection.

2. Choose SPF 30 or Higher

Dermatologists recommend at least SPF 30, which blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks around 98%. The difference is small but higher SPF can give you more protection.

3. Pick the Right Formula for Your Skin Type

Oily or acne-prone skin: look for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas.
Dry skin: go for hydrating oils or creams with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil, or grapeseed oil.
Sensitive skin: mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often gentler.

4. Consider Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens

Mineral (physical): sit on top of skin and reflect UV rays.
Chemical: absorb UV rays and convert them into heat.

Both can be effective, but chemical sunscreens are often preferred for daily wear because they’re transparent, lightweight, and ideal for all skin tones.

5. Sunscreen with Skincare Benefits

Since you should be wearing SPF every day, it makes sense to use a product that combines sun protection with skincare. Enriched with vitamin C and grapeseed oil, Truly’s Solar Baby SPF 45 helps to visibly brighten and hydrate skin for a dewy, glowing finish.

FAQs

Why is it Better to Wear a Broad Spectrum Sunscreen?

Borad-spectrum sunscreen protects against the sun’s harmful ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. While UVB rays cause sunburn, UVA rays penetrate deeper and are linked to premature aging and long-term skin damage. According to the AAD, using a broad spectrum sunscreen helps protect against sunburn, early signs of aging, and skin cancer, making it a smarter choice than UVB-only protection.

Should I Use Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Every Day?

Yes. Dermatologists recommend wearing broad spectrum sunscreen daily (even on cloudy days or when you’re indoors near windows) because UVA rays can still reach your skin. Daily use helps prevent cumulative damage over time, keeping your skin healthier and more youthful-looking. Apply every two hours for optimum protection.

How Do You Know if Sunscreen is Broad Spectrum?

Check the label. In many countries, it will clearly say “broad spectrum.” You might also see a UVA symbol (like a circle with “UVA” inside) or additional ratings that indicate UVA protection. If it doesn’t mention UVA protection or “broad spectrum,” it may not fully protect your skin.