Sunscreen: How to Choose the Right One

Sunscreen blocks or absorbs ultraviolet (UV) radiation, helping reduce skin damage caused by the sun. Regular use can help prevent premature skin aging, dark spots, sunburn, and skin cancer.

Sunscreens are available with sun protection factor (SPF) values ranging from 15 to 100, depending on the level of protection they provide. However, sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is recommended for effective skin protection.

For adequate protection against UV rays, sunscreen should be applied correctly and reapplied as needed. It is also important to choose a sunscreen that is suitable for your skin type, which can be done with guidance from a dermatologist.

How to choose the best sunscreen

The best sunscreen depends on its SPF and the person’s skin type, as shown in the following examples:

Although different SPF levels offer varying degrees of UVB protection, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher for everyone, regardless of skin tone.

Always check the label to make sure the sunscreen protects against both ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays, known as UVA and UVB rays.

UVB protection helps prevent sunburn, while UVA protection helps protect the skin against premature aging and skin cancer.

How to choose sunscreen for your face

When choosing the best sunscreen for the face, it is important to consider skin type, level of sun exposure, and specific skin care needs.

People with oily skin may prefer gel, serum, or oil-free sunscreens, which are less likely to clog pores. People with dry or normal skin may prefer cream-based sunscreens, which can also help moisturize the skin.

Mineral sunscreens and tinted products containing pigments, such as makeup, may help protect the skin from visible light emitted by the sun and digital screens, including tablets, computers, and cell phones.

Best sunscreen for dark spots

To choose the best facial sunscreen for dark spots, it is important to consult a dermatologist. The dermatologist will consider the person’s skin type, the cause of the discoloration, and their specific sun protection needs.

People with melasma, rosacea, or a history of skin cancer may be advised to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

For people with melasma, a dermatologist may also recommend a tinted sunscreen containing iron oxide. This type of sunscreen helps protect the skin from visible light from the sun, which can worsen melasma and other dark spots.

How to use

Tips for using sunscreen include:

• Apply sunscreen to dry skin at least 15 minutes before going outdoors.
• Apply about 1 teaspoon to the face and neck.
• Apply 1 teaspoon to each arm and forearm.
• Apply 2 teaspoons to each thigh and lower leg.
• Apply sunscreen evenly over all exposed skin, including the feet, ears, back of the neck, and hands.
• Reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating, according to the product directions.
• Use sunscreen every day, even on cloudy or cooler days.
• Use a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher.

Other important sun safety measures include seeking shade whenever possible, wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat, and limiting prolonged sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Stick sunscreen

Stick sunscreen should be applied directly to the skin by gliding the product over areas that will be exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, and specific dark spots.

This type of sunscreen allows for precise and convenient application without direct contact with the hands. It is especially useful for small areas and for reapplication throughout the day.

Spray sunscreen

Spray sunscreen should be applied from a distance of about 4 to 6 inches from the skin. It should then be spread with the hands to ensure even coverage.

It is also important to avoid inhaling the spray, applying it directly to the face or near the mouth, or spraying it against the wind.

Liquid sunscreen

Liquid sunscreen should be applied directly to the skin and spread evenly with the hands until it is fully absorbed. Be sure to cover all exposed areas of the skin.

Apply a generous amount and reapply it every 2 hours or after heavy sweating, swimming in the ocean or a pool, or towel drying to maintain effective protection against the sun's rays.

When to use

Sunscreen should be used every day throughout the year, regardless of skin tone, age, or weather conditions.

Sunscreen should also be used on cloudy or rainy days because UV radiation can pass through clouds and reach the skin.

Importance of daily use

Daily sunscreen use is important for helping prevent conditions such as:

• Precancerous skin lesions

• Skin cancer

• Premature skin aging

• Sunburn

• Dark spots on the skin

Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients such as avobenzone, octisalate, and octocrylene. These ingredients absorb UV radiation and convert it into a small amount of heat, which is then released from the skin.

Mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These mineral ingredients protect the skin by absorbing, reflecting, and scattering UV radiation.

Although sunscreen may slightly reduce the skin's production of vitamin D, it does not completely prevent it.

Important precautions

Before using a sunscreen for the first time, a skin test can be performed to check for an allergic reaction.

To perform the test, apply a small amount of sunscreen behind the ear and leave it on for about 12 hours while observing how the skin reacts. If no reaction occurs, the sunscreen can be applied to the rest of the body.

Makeup and skin care products with SPF

Many makeup and skin care products, such as moisturizers, lip products, and pressed powders, contain SPF and may provide additional sun protection.

However, these products should not replace regular sunscreen. Sunscreen should still be applied every day as part of the skin care routine.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, sunscreen should be applied after other skin care products and before makeup.