Sunscreen in Canada: SPF, DIN and NPN, and Year-Round Use
Sunscreen in Canada is not quite the same product category as a moisturizer or a foundation. It is regulated more like a medicine, it carries a registration number, and it comes with specific directions that are easy to skim past. It also matters in more seasons than most of us think: a bright day on fresh snow can deliver more UV than a hazy afternoon in July. This guide covers how to read a Canadian sunscreen label, what SPF and broad spectrum actually mean, how much to use, and how to protect yourself and your family all year.
Why Canadian sunscreens carry a DIN or NPN
In Canada, a sunscreen is not a cosmetic. Health Canada regulates sunscreens as non-prescription drugs or natural health products, depending on their active ingredients, and every sunscreen authorized for sale must show an eight-digit number on the label. According to Health Canada's sunscreen guidance:
- sunscreens with chemical UV filters carry a DIN (Drug Identification Number);
- sunscreens with only physical (mineral) UV filters, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, carry an NPN (Natural Product Number);
- sunscreens that combine chemical and physical filters carry a DIN.
Neither number is "better." Both mean the product was reviewed for sale in Canada. What matters is that the number is there. A lotion or makeup product can contain sunscreen ingredients without being a sunscreen, but once it claims SPF or sun protection, it needs a DIN or NPN. Read the directions and any warnings on the package too, and follow them.
What SPF and broad spectrum mean
SPF
Health Canada describes SPF (Sun Protection Factor) as a relative measure of how long it takes unprotected skin to burn compared with skin protected by the recommended amount of sunscreen. It mainly reflects protection against UVB, the main cause of sunburn. Two points are easy to miss: SPF is tested with a generous amount of product, and no SPF lets you stay out indefinitely.
Broad spectrum
UVB burns, but UVA also reaches the skin, and Health Canada notes that both UVA and UVB can increase your risk of skin cancer. A sunscreen labelled "broad spectrum" protects against both. Health Canada recommends a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Water resistant
"Water resistant" and "very water resistant" mean the formula is designed to stay on better when you swim or sweat. They do not mean waterproof. You still need to reapply after swimming, heavy sweating or towelling off.
How much to apply, and how often
Most people apply far less than the amount used to test SPF, which means they get less protection than the label suggests. Health Canada's guideline for an adult is about 7 teaspoons (35 mL) to cover all exposed skin:
- 1 teaspoon for the face and neck;
- 1 teaspoon for each arm (2 total);
- 1 teaspoon for each leg (2 total);
- 1 teaspoon for the front of the body;
- 1 teaspoon for the back.
On a winter day when only your face is exposed, the face-and-neck teaspoon is the part to remember. Health Canada also advises:
- Apply at least 15 minutes before going out in the sun.
- Reapply at least every 2 hours while outdoors, and more often if you are sweating, swimming or towelling off.
- Protect your lips with a lip balm that has SPF.
- If you also need insect repellent, apply sunscreen first, then repellent.
Health Canada also suggests checking for a reaction before using a new product, especially on sensitive skin, and notes that some prescription and over-the-counter products can make skin more sensitive to UV. A pharmacist can tell you whether anything you take falls into that group. For your lips, our Lips department carries lip balm and lip care.
The UV Index in Canada, including winter
Environment and Climate Change Canada publishes the UV Index with its forecasts. ECCC's UV Index and sun safety page groups values into low (0 to 2), moderate (3 to 5), high (6 to 7), very high (8 to 10) and extreme (11+), and advises an SPF of at least 30 on uncovered skin when protection is needed. In Canada, the UV Index is generally highest in spring and summer, and ECCC says UV exposure risk is highest from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Snow and altitude
Winter is where Canadian sun safety gets interesting. ECCC explains that fresh white snow can reflect over 80% of the sun's UV rays, so you can get almost twice as much UV as the index suggests. More UV also reaches higher places, where the air is thinner and clearer. That makes spring skiing in the mountains a classic setting for a surprise burn. Even when the forecast says "low," ECCC notes that low UV poses minimal risk except when it is bright and there is snow on the ground.
For winter days outside, protect the skin that your hat, scarf and goggles leave uncovered, usually the cheeks, nose, forehead, ears and lips, and wear sunglasses or goggles that block UVA and UVB. In very cold weather, many people like to put on a moisturizer first and let it settle before applying sunscreen; browse our Moisturizers & Creams department for richer winter textures.
Babies and children
Babies need a different approach. Health Canada's sun safety tips for parents say to keep babies under one year out of direct sunlight and not to put sunscreen on a baby younger than 6 months without asking your health care provider first. Shade, a stroller canopy, a brimmed hat and light clothing that covers the skin are the main tools. For babies over 6 months, Health Canada advises a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. For older children, the same adult rules apply, and children learn by example, so model the habit yourself.
Expiry, storage and the rest of your sun plan
Check the date and keep it cool
Because sunscreens are regulated as drugs or natural health products, check the expiry date on the package. Health Canada notes that expired sunscreen may be less effective. Heat is hard on sunscreen too, so avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or in a hot car, and bring summer's tube inside for the winter rather than leaving it in the glovebox. If a product has separated, changed texture or smells different, replace it. A bottle used at the recommended amount should not last several seasons anyway.
Sunscreen is one layer, not the whole plan
Health Canada recommends combining sunscreen with protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and shade, and limiting time in the sun when UV is strongest. Sunscreen is for the skin you cannot cover. If you notice a new or changing spot on your skin, see your doctor or a dermatologist.
Sunscreen checklist
- Look for a DIN or NPN, "broad spectrum" and SPF 30 or higher.
- Use about 35 mL for your whole body, or a full teaspoon for face and neck.
- Apply 15 minutes before going out; reapply at least every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating.
- Check the UV Index, and remember snow can nearly double your UV exposure.
- Use a lip balm with SPF and UV-blocking sunglasses.
- Keep babies under one year out of direct sun; ask your health care provider before using sunscreen on babies under 6 months.
- Check the expiry date and store sunscreen away from heat.
For everything else in your daily routine, explore our Skincare department. Delivery details are on our shipping policy page.
Frequently asked questions
Why does sunscreen in Canada have a DIN or NPN?
Health Canada regulates sunscreens as non-prescription drugs or natural health products. Sunscreens with chemical filters carry a DIN, those with only mineral filters carry an NPN, and combinations carry a DIN.
What SPF does Health Canada recommend?
Health Canada recommends a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
How much sunscreen should an adult use?
About 7 teaspoons (35 mL) to cover all exposed skin, including one teaspoon for the face and neck. Apply at least 15 minutes before going out and reapply at least every 2 hours.
Can I get sunburned in winter in Canada?
Yes. Environment and Climate Change Canada notes that fresh white snow can reflect over 80% of UV rays, nearly doubling exposure, and higher altitudes get more UV.
Can I use sunscreen on my baby?
Health Canada advises keeping babies under one year out of direct sunlight and not using sunscreen on babies under 6 months without asking a health care provider. For babies over 6 months, use SPF 30 or higher.