How to choose a sunscreen
Many beauticians will say the best skincare product for your skin is sunscreen. A good sunscreen ('broad spectrum', or 'full spectrum') will not only protect you from UVA rays, which causes skin to prematurely age; it should also block harmful UVB rays, which are the ones that burn the skin and could lead to skin cancer. We've broken down SPF and UV index in the past, so here's a closer look at sunscreen types and how to choose the right one for you.
Take into consideration what type of skin you have. If you have dry skin, opt for moisturizing sunscreens such as a cream, lotion, or ointment with SPF. If you have allergy-prone skin or conditions such as acne, eczema, or rosacea, avoid products with fragrances. You'll want to look for physical sunscreens, which we'll cover later.
If your family has a history of skin cancer, melasma, or if you have fairer skin, generally, you burn more easily– so you should opt for a sunscreen with higher SPF (at least 30).
For people with darker skin, or people who tan easily, you'll still need sunscreen. You might not want to use physical sunscreens because it can leave chalky, white streaks on the skin. Choose chemical sunscreens with a broad-spectrum and SPF of at least 15.
For most people across the board, the baseline is to buy a sunscreen with SPF of at least 15, anything over 50 is excessive because the level of protection is an infinitesimal increase after that.
What types of sunscreen are there?
There are two types of sunscreen: chemical and physical. Chemical (organic) sunscreen is more runny and acts like a sponge, absorbing the sun's rays. It provides more UVA protection, protecting your skin against both UVA and UVB rays. You can differentiate it in the store from physical sunscreen if you see any of these ingredients:
- Octylcrylene
- Avobenzone
- Octinoxate
- Octisalate
- Oxybenzone
- Homosalate
- Helioplex
- 4-MBC
- Mexoryl SX and XL
- Tinosorb S and M
- Uvinul T 150
- Uvinul A Plus
Chemical sunscreens can sting your eyes if it rubs or sweats off and the chemical filters might irritate some skin types. It takes about 20 minutes after applying for the sunscreen to be effective
Physical (inorganic) sunscreens act as a sunblock and deflect the sun's ray. You could say it's... just a reflektor. *ba dum tss* It is more thick and opaque and may be harder to spread on skin than chemical sunscreens (and it can leave flattering streaks of white on your skin). It is effective as soon as you apply it on your skin. It may not fully protect against all UVA rays, however, depending on the product.
Physical sunscreens are recommended for people with sensitive skin because it is non-comedogenic and does not clog pores, so if you are more prone to acne, choose physical over chemical. You can identify it by its two common ingredients: titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
Remeber that sunlight still passes through clouds and you should always apply, even to parts of your body you might neglect such as lips (there are lip balms with SPF) and ears.