What level Sunscreen factor should I take for Durban?

We are visiting Durban in the height summer, mid-Dec to mid-Jan. We will be based in Durban, and will be visiting The Kruger National Park, Drakensburg and Eastern Transvaal.

What sunscreen factor do you advise for my family, we have fairly pale skins?

When I visited the Seychelles close to the equator, we were advised to apply factor 25 twice daily. Would that work for Durban?

Thanks
Zee

[Ming]

Hey Zee

When traveling in the Caribbean last year I used factor 25 on my face and neck and factor 10 on body until I was tanned. These days I am more careful and would recommend the use of at least 15 on your body and 30 on your face. You must reapply every time you take a swim. Anywhere near Equator you should use factor 20 or higher. You might find the weather in Durban disappointing; it has some of the lowest sunshine figures in Southern Africa. It is hot, humid, overcast and the rainy season. The other places you mention will need sun protection, in which case I would also suggest 30+, unless you are purposely trying to achieve a specific tan level. Don’t be foolish and ruin your trip with severe SUN BURN.

Ming

[felix]

Hey guys,

I have to say that the times I have stayed in Durban I have found the sun way less harsh than my homeground in Cape Town. The Ozone hole is not so bad in Durban. I also find that the fact that the humidity is so high helps stop your skin from drying out. Tanning is way more pleasurable and the results are also far better.

I'm not sure if anyone else has noticed this but I could swear that drinking a lot of fluid (especially water) in the sun helps greatly.

The other thing to remember, especially if you are ever in Cape Town, is that the times of day are very important. Don't even go in the sun between 11am and 2pm - being in those rays for just 20 minutes without suncream is enough to cause sunburn.

All in all though, I would recommend taking no chances - buy factor 30 sun screen and apply it throughout the day. If you find you are not getting a tan then apply slightly less the next day. The best way to tan is to build it up gradually - and sunburn is highly unpleasant.