Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin

A Simple Guide 

We all know we’re supposed to wear sunscreen when spending time in the sun. But have you ever thought about which sunscreen you should actually be choosing? There are more differences between products than just the SPF number. So how do you know what really matters?

Understanding what’s inside your sunscreen, and how to apply it correctly, can make a big difference in how well your skin is protected. Here’s what to look for when choosing a sunscreen and how to use it effectively.

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Start with a Broad-Spectrum Protection 

The most important thing to check on any sunscreen label is “broad-spectrum.” This means the sunscreen protects against both types of ultraviolet radiation: 

UVA rays: These penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute premature aging and skin cancer. 

UVB rays: These rays are primarily responsible for sunburns. 

Without broad-spectrum protection, a sunscreen may help to prevent burns but still allow deeper skin damage. 

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Sunscreen Ingredients

Sunscreens protect your skin using either mineral (physical) filters or chemical filters.

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Mineral Sunscreens

Use ingredients such as:

• Zinc oxide
• Titanium dioxide

These ingredients sit on the surface of the skin and reflect ultraviolet radiation away from the skin. 

Often recommended for people with: 

• Sensitive skin
• Acne-prone skin
• Rosacea or eczema
• Children

They start working immediately after application, which makes them convenient for outdoor activities. 

The main drawback is that some formulas can leave a visible white cast, though many newer formulations have improved this. 

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Chemical Sunscreens

Use ingredients such as: 

• Avobenzone 
• Octocrylene
• Octisalate
• Homosalate
• Octinoxate

These ingredients absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin. 

Chemical sunscreens tend to feel lighter and blend more easily into the skin. Because of this, many people find them easier to apply regularly. 

However, they typically need to be applied about 15-20 minutes before sun exposure to become fully effective. 

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Ingredients Some People Choose to Avoid

Most sunscreen ingredients approved in the United States are considered safe. However, some people prefer to avoid certain ingredients due to skin sensitivity or environmental concerns.

One ingredient often discussed is oxybenzone. Some people choose to avoid it because it can cause irritation for sensitive skin and has been restricted in some regions due to concerns about coral reef health.

Another ingredient sometimes avoided is octinoxate, a UVB filter commonly used in chemical sunscreens. Like oxybenzone, it has also been restricted in some locations due to potential environmental impacts on coral reefs.

For people who prefer to avoid these ingredients, especially those with sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often recommended as gentle alternatives.

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How Much SPF Do You Really Need?

SPF (sun protection factor) measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, the ones causing sunburns.

Dermatologists generally recommend using at least SPF 50 for daily protection. 

What SPF numbers mean: 

• SPF 15 blocks about 93% of UVB rays
• SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays
• SPF 50 blocks about 98% of UVB rays

Higher SPF can provide slightly more protection, especially during long days outside, but no sunscreen blocks 100% of UV rays.

More importantly, sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours and after swimming or heavy sweating. 

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Does the Form of Sunscreen Matter?

Sunscreen comes in several different forms, such as lotions, sprays, and sticks, with the most effective one often being the one you will actually apply correctly and consistently. However, some forms provide more reliable coverage than others. 

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Lotion Sunscreen

Lotions are generally considered the most reliable form of sunscreen. They make it easier to see where you’ve applied product, making people less likely to miss areas. Because of this, dermatologists often recommend lotions for full-body coverage. 

The main downside is that they can take longer to apply and may feel heavier on the skin. 

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Spray Sunscreen

Spray sunscreens are popular because they are quick and convenient, especially for reapplication at the beach or pool.

However, sprays can be less reliable if they aren’t applied thoroughly. It’s easy to spray too little product or miss areas of skin entirely. 

For best results:

• Spray generously until skin glistens
• Rub the sunscreen into the skin after spraying
• Avoid spraying directly onto face

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Stick Sunscreen

Stick sunscreens are particularly useful for small or sensitive areas, such as:

• The face
• Around the eyes
• The nose
• Ears
• Lips

They are also convenient for reapplying sunscreen throughout the day due to being more portable and less messy. However, sticks are not ideal for covering large areas of the body.

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The Most Common Sunscreen Mistakes  

One of the biggest reasons sunscreen fails is simply not using enough. 

For full-body coverage, most adults need about one ounce of sunscreen (roughly a shot glass amount).

Areas that are frequently missed include:

• Ears
• Scalp and hairline
• Back of the neck
• Tops of the feet
• Lips

These areas receive significant sun exposure but are easy to overlook. 

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Final Tips

Before heading into the sun for extended periods, remember that proper protection is key. Dermatologists recommend using at least SPF 50 and reapplying every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating.

It’s also a good idea to take a moment to look over your skin and note any new or changing spots.

Tracking your skin over time makes it easier to notice changes early. Tools like SkinCheck’s body mapping and photo comparison features allow you to monitor your skin and keep a record of spots that may change over time.

Spending a little time protecting and checking your skin today can help keep it healthy for years to come.