sun protection factor

noun

: a number assigned to a sunscreen that is the factor by which the time required for unprotected skin to become sunburned is increased when the sunscreen is used
abbreviation SPF

Examples of sun protection factor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Both variants had a sun protection factor (SPF) of around 30, while also minimizing skin cell damage and inflammation. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 4 Sep. 2025 While formulations vary, the general rule is to select a broad-spectrum shield with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30. Khanh T.l. Tran, USA Today, 29 Aug. 2025 Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 30 or higher and reapply as necessary, at least every two hours. Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 25 July 2025 This could be because olive oil only has a sun protection factor (SPF) of about 8. Monica Cull, Discover Magazine, 22 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for sun protection factor

Word History

First Known Use

1968, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sun protection factor was in 1968

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Cite this Entry

“Sun protection factor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sun%20protection%20factor. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

sun protection factor

noun
: spf
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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