What to Look for in SPFs

Whether you’re in the salt or the snow, a proper sunscreen regimen is essential to prevent the negative effects of sun exposure like painful sunburns, risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging. Here are some helpful tips on choosing the best SPF sunscreen to properly protect your skin.

Know Your Skin Type

Finding a sunscreen that isn't uncomfortable and doesn't clog your pores can be a challenge. Not all sunscreen products are created equal, and knowing your skin type will help tremendously when selecting the right one.

Oily skin types

Opt for oil-free and lightweight products
Sunscreens labeled “non-comedogenic” are best
Choose a mineral/physical sunscreen rather than a chemical sunscreen
Look for ingredients like silica and isododecane

Dry, sensitive skin types:

Avoid products containing alcohol as it will dry your skin out further
Choose a mineral-based sunscreen containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide
Keep your eye out for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, colloidal oatmeal and ceramides

Normal skin types:

Look for product reviews that show “no whitecast”
Opt for fragrance-free and paraben-free products
Consider tinted sunscreens for an extra glow

Use Sunscreens With SPF 30 or Greater

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, indicates the degree of protection a sunscreen provides against UV B rays. So, if a sunscreen contains SPF 25, that means it would take 25 times longer for your skin to burn when wearing that particular sunscreen. Experts recommend using products with SPF 30 or greater for optimal protection.

Wear Sunscreen Everyday

Wearing sunscreen should be a daily habit, regardless of weather conditions or time spent outside. And if you are active outdoors, reapplying your sunscreen every two hours is recommended.

Don’t Count On Your Makeup for Protection

The SPF contained in your makeup foundations and creams will not fully protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Many skin experts and dermatologists agree that around .04 ozs, or a nickel-sized dollop, is the right amount of sunscreen to apply to your face. So, even if the makeup label shows an SPF of 30 or greater, it is likely that you are not using enough product for it to work correctly.

Choosing The Best SPF Sunscreen

All in all, the key to maximum sun protection is consistency. The benefits of applying and reapplying your sunscreen on a daily basis might not be noticeable but you will thank yourself down the road. Think of wearing sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses (or goggles if you’re shredding) as a long-term investment and the best anti-aging routine there is.