Here are some important factors to consider when choosing a sunscreen for your skin type and needs:
✔️ Comprehensive protection: this is important “This is to protect yourself from both harmful UVA/UVB rays,” says Lucy Chen, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist at River Chase Dermatology in Florida. Exposure to these wavelengths can cause dangerous sunburn, skin damage that can lead to skin cancer, and signs of aging such as hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and sagging skin.
✔️ SPF30 or higher: SPF 30 or higher is best, says David Lortscher, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in San Diego, California and CEO of Curology. And you might want to take it to the next level. A study by GH Beauty Lab found that, on average, a woman applies only about 1/3 of the amount of sunscreen needed to achieve her SPF level listed on the product’s packaging. Ta. So, for added insurance, opt for an SPF of 50 or higher, especially when outdoors, recommends Danusia Wnek, senior chemist at GH Beauty Lab.
✔️ Active ingredients: Choose from chemical sunscreen actives and mineral sunscreen actives (or a mixture of both).
- Chemical formula According to Dr. Michael Somenek, a plastic surgeon in Washington, D.C., “this process of absorbing ultraviolet light and converting it into heat allows the body to emit more ultraviolet light and ultimately prevent skin burns.” he says. Chemical sunscreens tend to be better for swimming because they are water resistant, but while they are often easier to apply and don’t leave a white residue, you will need to reapply the sunscreen more often than mineral sunscreens.
- Mineral blend (also called physical sunscreens) form a barrier on your skin that reflects or filters UVA and UVB rays. These sunscreens may spread less easily on the skin and leave behind a white cast, but they usually provide more lasting protection than chemical formulations.
✔️ Types of formula: Scientists at GH Beauty Lab say, “We prefer lotions and creams over sprays because they are more likely to last longer on the skin and form an even protective layer on the skin,” says Director of GH Beauty Lab, Sabina Wiseman says. Additionally, “If your skin is prone to dryness, creams may be better for you,” says Dr. Chen. For kids, she points out, “sprays are easy to use, but be sure to spray generously, as you may need to apply two coats.”
✔️ water resistance: This means the SPF can withstand sweaty days and hours spent swimming.But please know that there is no such thing as water.evidence or sweatevidence Sunscreen. Current FDA guidelines only give you the option of “40 minute water resistant” or “80 minute water resistant.” The label “sweat and water resistant” means the formula maintained its SPF level on the tester’s skin in a water bath for the specified amount of time, says Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian Dermatology Oncology. and Stephen Q. Wang, MD, Chief of Dermatologic Surgery. Newport Beach, California. After that period, it must be reapplied.
✔️ yourRelative type: For those with dry skin, “look for ingredients like dimethicone, glycerin, aloe, and oil, and avoid spray or gel sunscreens that contain alcohol,” advises Dr. Chen. She adds that people with oily skin should choose lightweight sunscreens that contain oil-absorbing ingredients such as silica.
