What to Look For When Buying Sunscreen
Choosing the right sunscreen isn’t always as easy as grabbing the first SPF you see on the skincare aisle. For starters, you’ll want to make sure your sunscreen-of-choice can protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays while also being able to withstand sweat and water exposure. Below is a list of essential sunscreen considerations as recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and skincare experts.
The Right SPF
Sun protection factor or SPF refers to your sunscreen’s ability to protect your skin against UVB rays, so it’s commonly assumed that higher SPFs equal stronger protection. However, experts say that’s not necessarily the case. “When customers see a product marketed as an SPF 100+, some may think that means they’re protected from 100 percent of the UVB rays, or that the product will work all day.
According to the AAD, you should choose at least an SPF 30 sunscreen for daily use as it can filter up to 96.7 percent of UVB rays. But if you are fair-skinned, engage in outdoor activities, or have a higher risk for skin cancer, an SPF 50 sunscreen is your best bet. It can shield your skin from 98 percent of UVB rays and provide some room for error in case of under-application.
Broad-Spectrum
SPF values only indicate your sunscreen's coverage against UVB rays, which is why it’s important to make sure your sunscreen is also labeled as broad spectrum. A broad spectrum sunscreen means it offers protection from both UVB and UVA rays, which have longer wavelengths and can penetrate deeper into the skin.
Sunscreen Formulation
These days, sun protection comes in all shapes, sizes, and formulations—from lotions and creams to gels, sprays, and even powder. Ultimately, choosing the right formulation boils down to your personal preference and skin type, especially since sunscreen isn’t an apply-and-forget type of deal. You’ll want to pick a sunscreen that’s convenient for you to apply, reapply, and carry around throughout the day.
Additionally, consider your skin type. If you have dry skin, opt for creams and lotions to help your skin stay moisturized. Lightweight gels or powders with a matte finish are good for oily skin to help keep shine under control. Meanwhile, mineral, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic formulas are recommended for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Water Resistance
No sunscreen is truly waterproof, but they can be water-resistant. Experts recommend opting for water-resistant sunscreens, especially if you’re swimming or sweating excessively from exercise or sports. According to the AAD, sunscreens can only be water-resistant for either 40 or 80 minutes, so make sure to reapply them consistently afterward.
Chemical vs Mineral Sunscreens
Sunscreens fall under two different types, chemical and mineral, and their main difference lies in their active ingredients. Chemical sunscreens, as the term implies, rely on a cocktail of chemical ingredients that work hand-in-hand to protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays. They absorb and degrade UV light and create a chemical reaction that turns them into heat before releasing it from the body.
Meanwhile, mineral or physical sunscreens harness the natural UV filtering properties of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. These mineral blockers form a layer of protection on the skin that filters and deflect UV rays away from the body, much like a mirror that reflect light.
While both types of sunscreens are effective against UV radiation, most experts prefer mineral sunscreens over chemical ones because they are photostable, have a natural and broader UVA and UVB coverage, and work as soon as they are applied.
Your Level of Sun Exposure
Your level of sun exposure varies depending on your activities, the time of day, geographical location, and the UV index. If you frequently engage in outdoor activities for hours at a time or live in an area close to the equator, it’s best to choose an SPF 50 sunscreen to compensate for your level of sun exposure and adjust the frequency of reapplication.