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Sunscreen is a crucial element of any skincare routine. No matter your skin type or age, you should be using it all year to protect against skin cancer and premature aging. We know the sunscreen market is vast and not all sunscreens are created equal, so we talked to Dr. Nazanin Saedi. She’s a Philadelphia-based dermatologist who gave us a few SPF recommendations and helped us break down everything you need to know. Time for some (protected) fun in the sun.
First, a glossary
SPF: sun protection factor. It measures the level of protection against UVA and UVB rays.
UVA rays: It’s the kind of sun that leads to premature aging and wrinkles, and can get through windows and glass. It can also lead to skin cancer.
UVB rays: The ones that give you sunburn and can lead to skin cancer.
Broad spectrum: This means the sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB rays, which is a good thing.
Mineral vs chemical: Mineral (or physical) sunscreen acts like a physical blocker; it repels or reflects the UV light. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends physical sunscreen for people with sensitive skin. Chemical sunscreens absorb (rather than repel) the UV light so your skin doesn’t. The AAD says chemical sunscreen is usually easier to rub into your skin without leaving behind a white residue.
Zinc oxide: The SPF buzzword of the moment — and not in a bad way. It’s an active ingredient found in mineral sunscreens and is “great because it’s a physical blocker,” Saedi says. “It reflects the UV rays [and] has great protection.”
Lotion vs spray: Many derms will advise lotions over sprays, Saedi says. With sprays, they’re harder to see and you don’t really know how much is coming out or if you’re using enough. Plus, some are worried about consumers inhaling the chemicals in aerosol products. (Psst: The AAD says to avoid using sprays around your mouth and face for this reason.) Since sprays often increase compliance — they’re so easily applied and reapplied, Saedi often recommends them. When it comes down to it, any sunscreen is better than no sunscreen.
Water resistant vs waterproof: Water resistant means you’re protected for up to 40 minutes in water. If a label says “very water resistant,” you’ve got 80 minutes, which is still less than the two-hour reapplication mark. Oh, and no sunscreens are “waterproof,” so don’t be fooled.
Sunscreen application 101
Yes, you need to wear sunscreen every single day. Even when it’s cloudy or if you’re inside, because certain UV rays can penetrate through glass.
Apply about 1 ounce of SPF to your exposed skin every two hours you’re in the sun. That’s approximately the size of a shot glass.
Reapplication is vital. Once in the morning isn’t going to cut it, and if you’re swimming, reapply more frequently.
Don’t neglect your ears, feet, neck, and scalp. Any skin that’s exposed needs sunscreen, and it’s best to put on your first layer 15 minutes before you go outside.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a broad spectrum, water resistant SPF of 30 or higher. SPF 30 blocks 97% of the sun’s rays. “After 30, the difference is nominal,” Saedi says. Anything above is just slightly more effective. Plus, there are no sunscreens that can block 100% of the sun's rays.
If your makeup has SPF in it, you should still wear sunscreen. Many experts point to the fact that makeup with SPF often doesn’t have broad spectrum protection. They also note that most people don’t apply enough makeup to actually protect against the sun effectively. (Remember that 1 ounce rule? Are you hitting every nook and cranny like your neck and eyelids?)
Generally, sunscreen should be the last step in your daytime skincare routine. If your makeup includes SPF and you use sunscreen on top, you’ll be protected by the SPF of whatever your top layer is, Saedi says. (If your makeup has SPF 15 and you put SPF 30 over it, you don’t get 45; you’ll get a protection factor of 30.)
And finally, our favorite daily sunscreens…
The best kind of sunscreen is one you’ll actually wear. Here are some options for you…
A sunscreen even sunscreen-haters will love…
This dual face and body option is oil-free, fragrance-free, and water-resistant. The broad-spectrum cream works for all skin types (sensitive skin included) and won’t leave you feeling greasy. It’s fast-absorbing, non-comedogenic, and “really just melts into your skin,” Saedi says. ($37.99+, Amazon)
Our very own bundle with Kinfield…
We teamed up with one of our favorite sunscreen brands to bring you two of our mainstays at a lower price. You’ll get the Daily Dew, which is hydrating, untinted, and water-resistant, and the Sunglow, which is lightly tinted with a glowy finish. They’re both SPF 35, reef-safe, and wear beautifully alone or under makeup. ($45, Kinfield)
A starter sunscreen for daily protection…
This one is a hydrating, sheer, unscented formula that has broad spectrum protection (and is even beard-friendly.) It’s oil-free and glides on easily so you won’t be left feeling greasy after use. Plus, it’s a clean sunscreen with antioxidants in it that’ll keep your skin moisturized and soothed. (18+, Amazon)
A mineral sunscreen that acts like a primer…
This mineral sunscreen with zinc has broad spectrum protection and gives you that glowy look. It has peptides in it, which, Saedi explains, helps boost collagen production and makes skin look firmer and smoother. Plus, this one shouldn’t leave that white residue behind either. We love that it’s tinted because you can use it as a makeup primer (or in place of any makeup at all.) ($64, Alastin Skincare)
A tinted sunscreen that’ll simplify your morning routine…
Meet the tinted multitasking option we can’t stop wearing every day. It actually improves our skin as we wear it, thanks to the niacinamide that hydrates and bisabolol that reduces inflammation. At the same time, zinc oxide protects against blue light and harsh rays. We love that it comes in four different shades. Psst…use code SKIMM20 for 20% off. ($39.50, Daybird)
A face stick that’s easy for kids to apply…
This stick is easy to carry around and shouldn’t explode in a bag like some tubes of lotion. The AAD specifically suggests using sticks for around the eyes. Plus, it’s fast-absorbing and quick to roll on, so your kids can easily master reapplication themselves. Psst…if you’re looking for a body lotion rec for kids, this is the one. ($10.99, Amazon)
A sunscreen for darker skin tones…
This brand was co-created with dermatologists of color and for those with melanin-rich skin. The invisible-looking oil is sheer and lightweight, so it won’t leave behind a white residue on your skin. Plus, it’s free of parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, and alcohol. ($18.58, Amazon)
A mist to keep your scalp from getting burnt…
This broad spectrum nourishing spray will protect your head, and won’t grease your hair up in the process. (Psst: It’s also great for those who are balding.) The spray is cruelty-free, paraben- and sulfate-free, vegan, color-safe, and water resistant. ($17.49, Amazon)
An accessory for an added layer of protection…
This hat has a zipper, so you can easily turn it into a visor. Its extra-large brim will keep the sun out of your face. Plus, it’s lightweight and breathable. Bonus: The hat is foldable and made of quick-dry material, so even if you get it wet you can easily pack it up after a long day at the beach. ($21.99+, Amazon)
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute a medical opinion, medical advice, or diagnosis or treatment of any particular condition.
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