How to Pick the Best Sunscreen for You

Sunscreen is one of the most important skincare products you can use, but it can be tough to know which one is right for you. There are so many different types and brands on the market, and it can be hard to figure out which one will provide the best protection. In this blog post, we'll discuss some of the factors to consider when choosing a sunscreen, and we'll recommend some of our office favorites.

What to Look for in a Sunscreen

When choosing a sunscreen, there are a few key factors to consider:

SPF: SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. This number tells you how long it will take the sun’s rays to redden the skin when using the product as directed versus without any sunscreen. In the case of a SPF 30, it will take your skin 30 times longer to burn than if you weren’t wearing any sunscreen at all. The higher the SPF, the more protection your skin will receive but the gains are incremental the higher it gets. For example, an SPF of 30 will block out 97% of UV rays, while an SPF of 50 will block out 98%. While the FDA suggests a minimum SPF of 15, the American Academy of Dermatology suggests picking a product with 30 or higher.

Broad-spectrum: Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays cause premature skin aging, while UVB rays cause sunburn. It's important to choose a sunscreen that is broad-spectrum to protect your skin from both types of UV rays. Most broad-spectrum products will also protect against blue light.

Water-resistance: If you're going to be sweating or swimming, you'll need to choose a water-resistant sunscreen. Water-resistant sunscreens are designed to stay on your skin even when you're wet.

Reapplication: No matter what type of sunscreen you choose, it's important to reapply it every two hours, more if you're sweating or swimming. You should also reapply sunscreen after toweling off. Many people have a false sense of security if they initially apply a high SPF so reapplication is an important step.

Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium oxide, avobenzone, and homosalate are a few very common ingredients in most sunscreens. Some people with sensitive skin may need to choose a sunscreen that is free of certain chemical ingredients, such as oxybenzone or octinoxate, that may cause irritation.

Types of Sunscreen

There are two main types of sunscreen: chemical and physical.

Chemical sunscreens: Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat. They are generally more lightweight and cosmetically elegant than physical sunscreens. However, they can sometimes irritate sensitive skin. EltaMD UV Clear is a great option that has both a physical and chemical component that is non-greasy, non-comedogenic and sensitivity-free.

Physical sunscreens: Physical sunscreens work by creating a physical barrier on your skin that reflects UV rays away. They are generally more gentle on the skin, but they can be more difficult to rub in and can leave a white cast on the skin. These products are not aesthetically pleasing for dark skin tones. A few of our office favorites are EltaMD UV Elements, UV Physical, and UV Stick.

How to Apply Sunscreen

To get the most protection from your sunscreen, it's important to apply it correctly. Here are some tips:

  • Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside. This is how long it generally takes for the skin to absorb the product.

  • Apply enough sunscreen to cover all exposed skin. For an average adult body it will take about 1 ounce (think one shot glass full). For the face and neck it’s about ½ teaspoon worth.

  • Reapply sunscreen every two hours; more often if you're sweating or swimming.

  • Be sure to reapply sunscreen after toweling off! Don’t forget behind your ears, tops of feet, and lips.

Other Sun Protection Tips

In addition to wearing sunscreen, there are other things you can do to protect your skin from the sun. These include:

  • Wearing protective clothing, such as a hat, sunglasses, and rash guards. Many companies, like Coolibar, have designed some great clothing options.

  • Seeking shade when possible. If your shadow is short, find some shade.

  • Avoiding the sun during the peak hours of 10am to 2pm.

The best sunscreen is ultimately the one you’re willing to wear consistently. By choosing the right sunscreen and following the tips above, you can help protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays and help prevent premature skin aging. If you need help figuring out which product is ideal for you, call Aesthetics by Design in Denver for a consultation.

Bibliography

“Global Solar UV Index.” World Health Organization, World Health Organization, https://www.who.int/publications-detail-redirect/9241590076.

Guan, Linna L., et al. “Sunscreens and Photoaging: A Review of Current Literature.” American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, vol. 22, no. 6, 2021, pp. 819–828., https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-021-00632-5.

Holloway, Leith. “Atmospheric Sun Protection Factor on Clear Days: Its Observed Dependence on Solar Zenith Angle and Its Relevance to The Shadow Rule for Sun Protection.” Photochemistry and Photobiology, vol. 56, no. 2, 1992, pp. 229–234., https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1751-1097.1992.tb02151.x.

Hughes, Maria Celia, et al. “Sunscreen and Prevention of Skin Aging.” Annals of Internal Medicine, vol. 158, no. 11, 2013, p. 781., https://doi.org/10.7326/0003-4819-158-11-201306040-00002.

Parsons, Peter G, et al. “The Shady Side of Solar Protection.” Medical Journal of Australia, vol. 168, no. 7, 1998, pp. 327–330., https://doi.org/10.5694/j.1326-5377.1998.tb138960.x.

“Sunscreen FAQs.” American Academy of Dermatology, https://www.aad.org/media/stats-sunscreen.

Sarah RutherfordAesthetics by Design