It can be hard to know how to choose the right sunscreen. Sunscreens help protect your skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, reduce your risk of skin cancer, and help prevent sunburn and premature aging.
Understanding factors like SPF, water resistance, and broad-spectrum protection can help you determine the best products for your needs and skin type.
A sunscreen’s sun protection factor (SPF) is a number that represents how much UV radiation exposure your skin can take without burning, not the length of time spent in the sun. Factors like your skin type, how often you reapply, and the time of day can affect sunburn risk. Experts suggest reapplying sunscreen every two hours and after sweating a lot or swimming.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends sunscreen with at least SPF 30, which blocks 97% of the sun’s Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. No sunscreen can block 100% of the sun’s UVB rays.
People with certain skin conditions or at a higher risk of skin cancer may need to select a higher SPF. You must reapply your sunscreen just as often as people wearing SPF 30.
Sunscreens come in lotions, creams, gels, sprays, ointments, and wax sticks. The best type for you often comes down to your personal preferences. Look for a variety that you’ll be willing to wear every day.
Different formulas may work better for different skin types or areas. For instance, a cream-based sunscreen may be better for dry skin, while a gel-based sunscreen may work better for oily skin. A stick or wax sunscreen may be easier to use around the eyes, and spray sunscreens can be easier to apply on kids.
The AAD does not recommend sunscreens containing insect repellants. Instead, purchase two different products and apply them separately. Insect repellants should be used sparingly.
Certain ingredients in sunscreen can cause side effects, especially if you have a health condition, sensitive skin, or allergies. Factors to consider include:
- Potential allergens: Ingredients like avobenzone and octocrylene can cause allergic reactions like contact dermatitis. Fragrances, alcohols, and preservatives may also cause reactions. If you’re unsure about a sunscreen, try it on a small patch of skin for a few days to see how you respond.
- Environmental impact: The chemicals in sunscreen may be harmful to coral reefs and other marine life. A 2022 report by the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) urged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to investigate the impact of sunscreens on marine ecosystems.
- Potential chemical absorption: Some sunscreen ingredients may linger in the bloodstream for extended periods. One study found that six ingredients—oxybenzone, avobenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, octisalate, and octinoxate—were absorbed into the bloodstream after one use and reached levels in the blood that surpassed the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) threshold.
Studies into the potential effects of absorbing sunscreen chemicals are ongoing. The FDA notes that absorption does not necessarily mean these ingredients are unsafe and urges people to continue using sunscreens alongside other sun protection measures, like wearing protective clothing.
The AAD recommends broad-spectrum sunscreens because they provide protection from both Ultraviolet A (UVA) and UVB rays.
UVA rays are sometimes called “aging rays” because they can lead to premature skin aging, wrinkles, and age spots. They can penetrate glass windows, so your skin may be exposed to sun damage indoors.
UVB rays, sometimes called “burning rays,” are the primary cause of sunburn. Though they can’t pass through window glass, you still need protection from them.
Water-resistant sunscreens are designed to stay on your skin longer when you’re in water or sweating.
Even if you’re wearing a water-resistant sunscreen, you should still reapply every two hours as normal, and immediately after swimming or exercising.
No sunscreen is completely waterproof or sweat-proof. Sunscreen manufacturers are not allowed to use these terms because they can confuse or mislead consumers. If you see a sunscreen marketed as waterproof or sweatproof, avoid buying it and consider reporting the manufacturer to the FDA.
Mineral and chemical sunscreens are both effective, but contain different active ingredients.
Mineral sunscreens (or physical sunscreens) primarily contain titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or both. They often leave a white residue on your skin. Dermatologists may recommend that people with sensitive skin use mineral sunscreens because they’re often free of harsh chemicals.
Chemical sunscreens do not contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. They tend to have a lighter formula than mineral sunscreens and don’t leave behind a white cast. However, they contain chemicals that may irritate the skin or pose threats to marine life.
Hybrid sunscreens contain chemicals as well as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Always read the list of active ingredients.
Some sunscreens are specially formulated for a particular skin type. Reading a product’s label can help you determine if it’s a good fit for you.
For example, if you have dry skin, you might want a sunscreen that contains added moisturizers. You may prefer non-comedogenic (pore-clogging) and oil-free sunscreens if you have oily or acne-prone skin. Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic sunscreens may be better for sensitive skin. Some sunscreens are designed for more mature skin.
All sunscreens should ideally be broad-spectrum, water resistant, and have an SPF of 30 or higher, but some factors may be more important to consider for different skin tones.
For example, people with lighter skin are at a higher risk of sunburn, DNA damage, and skin cancer. Individuals with sensitive skin or an underlying skin condition may also burn more quickly. Choosing a sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher can help protect against harmful UV radiation.
Darker skin may be naturally better protected against UVB rays, but more prone to hyperpigmentation from UVA rays. Regularly using a broad-spectrum sunscreen can help prevent photoaging and pigmentation.
The key to maximizing your sunscreen’s protection is wearing it consistently and applying it correctly. Here are some tips:
- Apply at least 15 minutes before going outside: If you wait until you are outside, your skin is already exposed and can burn.
- Use enough: Most people only apply 25-50% of the recommended amount (about one ounce, or enough to fill a shot glass).
- Apply on all exposed skin: Don’t forget the tops of your feet, the part in your hair, and your ears, neck, and lips.
- Reapply every two hours: Only about one-third of people in the United States reapply their sunscreen as recommended.
- Apply sunscreen daily: As much as 80% of the sun’s UV rays can penetrate the clouds.
- Cover your skin evenly: If you are using a spray, spray until your skin glistens. Then, take a minute to rub the sunscreen in.
- Check the expiration date: Sunscreens can expire about three years after being purchased, making them less effective.
Sunscreens are designed to prevent sunburns, reduce the likelihood of skin cancer, and decrease premature aging. When buying a new sunscreen, look for a broad-spectrum, water-resistant variety with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Choose a product that you will feel comfortable wearing every day. Consider the type of sunscreen, its ingredients, and your skin type. Talk to a healthcare provider, such as a board-certified dermatologist, if you have questions about choosing the best sunscreen for you.
