Health
Find Your Perfect Sunscreen For Healthy Skin
Health Points
- Choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher for optimal protection against harmful UV rays.
- Broad-spectrum, water-resistant formulas offer the best defense for all skin types and tones.
- Correct and consistent application is essential for reducing sun damage, premature aging, and skin cancer risk.
Choosing the right sunscreen matters more than you might think—especially as we age and our skin becomes more vulnerable to sun damage. Sunscreens are a key tool for protecting yourself from UV radiation, lowering your chances of skin cancer, and preventing sunburn or early signs of aging, such as wrinkles or age spots.
When shopping for sunscreen, look for those labeled as SPF 30 or higher. This means they block about 97% of the sun’s UVB rays. While it’s tempting to reach for the highest SPF possible, experts agree that proper application and reapplication are just as important. “You must reapply your sunscreen just as often as people wearing SPF 30,” experts advise. No sunscreen blocks 100% of the sun’s rays, so set a two-hour reminder and always reapply after swimming or heavy sweating.
Choosing between lotion, spray, stick, or gel? It often comes down to preference and lifestyle. For dry skin, cream-based sunscreens are a good fit. Gels can work better for oily skin, while sticks make application around the eyes easier. If you’re applying sunscreen to kids or hard-to-reach spots, sprays might be convenient. Just remember: whatever the type, it should be something you’ll use every day.
Take a peek at the ingredient list, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies. Some people react to avobenzone and octocrylene or fragrances and preservatives, so patch-test new products before a full application. Eco-conscious users might also want to avoid sunscreens with certain chemical filters, which could harm coral reefs and marine life—an issue now under study by environmental agencies. While some sunscreen ingredients can be absorbed into the bloodstream, regulatory bodies remind us that absorption doesn’t automatically mean danger, and we should continue protecting our skin.
Choose sunscreens labeled as “broad-spectrum.” This means they shield your skin from both UVA (often called “aging rays”) and UVB (the major cause of sunburn) damage. UVA rays can even penetrate windows, so consider daily application—even if you plan to be indoors.
Planning a swim or workout? Water-resistant varieties stay on longer during water exposure and sweating, but should still be reapplied every two hours. Beware of products marketed as “waterproof” or “sweatproof,” since these claims can be misleading and aren’t allowed by current regulations.
Mineral sunscreens, often made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, sit on the skin’s surface and physically deflect UV rays. They may leave a subtle white cast, but are recommended for sensitive or mature skin. Chemical sunscreens, by contrast, absorb UV rays and tend to have a lighter feel but may irritate some skin types or affect ocean ecosystems. Always read the label to know what you’re putting on your skin.
Pick a sunscreen matched to your skin type. If your skin is dry, look for added moisturizers. For oily or acne-prone skin, “non-comedogenic” and oil-free labels help prevent clogged pores. Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options can make life easier for sensitive skin. Some brands now formulate specially for mature skin—worth considering as we age.
Skin tone also plays a role in sunscreen needs. Those with lighter skin are more prone to sunburn and DNA damage and can benefit from higher SPF. Darker skin tones, although naturally more resistant to UVB rays, can be at higher risk for hyperpigmentation from UVA rays. “Regularly using a broad-spectrum sunscreen can help prevent photoaging and pigmentation,” dermatologists recommend.
To get the most from your sunscreen, apply it 15 minutes before heading outdoors, using about one ounce (enough to fill a shot glass) for all exposed skin. Don’t forget easy-to-miss spots like feet, hair parts, ears, neck, and lips. Only a third of U.S. adults reapply sunscreen as directed, but doing so every two hours—and every time you swim or sweat—vastly improves protection. Even cloudy days require sunscreen, since up to 80% of UV rays pass through clouds.
Finally, make sure your sunscreen hasn’t expired. Most have a shelf life of three years. Take a moment to check before each season starts.
The takeaway: Broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is your best bet for daily defense. Choose a formula you enjoy—and will use—and pay attention to your skin type and any sensitivities. If you’re ever unsure, a board-certified dermatologist is just a call away with advice tailored to your needs.