How to choose the most effective sunscreen

Choosing a good sunscreen that suits your skin type requires a certain level of sun protection knowledge...

Is a higher SPF always better?

Most of us tend to think that the higher the SPF number on a bottle, the better the sunscreen. That's true, and no one can deny it; you shouldn't choose sunscreen with an SPF below 15. However, you don't necessarily need to choose one with an SPF above 90, as it doesn't necessarily mean it offers higher sun protection, lasts longer, or is more effective. For best results, you should choose sunscreen with an SPF between 15 and 50.

Illustrative image

Choose a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

SPF is a measure of the average number of hours a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays – the type of ultraviolet rays that cause sunburn and skin cancer. Typically, only about 25% of the sunscreen you apply is effective, so the protection is significantly reduced. Therefore, you should choose a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. While UVB rays can cause sunburn, UVA rays penetrate deeper, leading to wrinkles and inflammatory skin conditions.

Understand the difference

If you're wondering whether to choose sweat-proof or water-resistant sunscreen, you should know that there are laws prohibiting sunscreen manufacturers from using the terms "sweat-proof" and "waterproof." Therefore, you can only choose sunscreens with formulas that are both sweat-proof and water-resistant. So, if you're going outside, opt for a water-resistant sunscreen; it will provide protection for up to 80 minutes before you need to reapply.

Sensitive skin

If you have sensitive skin or a skin condition, you should choose sunscreen designed for children to avoid negative effects on your skin. This is because children's sunscreens contain fewer irritants and chemicals than adult formulas. Additionally, you should avoid sunscreens that contain fragrance or alcohol.

Broad spectrum

An important thing to consider when buying sunscreen is whether it says broad-spectrum protection or UVA/UVB protection. Both types of rays are very dangerous and are a cause of skin cancer, so it's smart to find out which type of rays your sunscreen protects you from. While UVB rays can cause sunburn, UVA rays are a major contributor to wrinkles.

Which is better: spray sunscreen or cream sunscreen?

More and more types of spray sunscreens are appearing on the market. They seem more convenient and faster to apply, but in reality, they are not as effective as cream sunscreens. Furthermore, many experts believe that you may face the risk of allergies or poisoning if you spray sunscreen and accidentally inhale the fumes.

Once you've chosen the right sunscreen for your skin type, you also need to know how to use it correctly to achieve the best results:

Illustrative image.

Apply sunscreen 15 minutes beforehand.

For optimal and effective sunscreen application, you should apply sunscreen about 15 minutes before going outside.

Apply sunscreen before getting dressed.

You should apply sunscreen before putting on clothes or swimwear to ensure that all the skin on your body is protected. Don't assume that the parts of your body covered by clothing are safe, as UV rays can penetrate the fabric and have a negative impact on your skin.

Apply sunscreen – a step in your makeup routine.

For those who wear makeup, you can use sunscreen as a foundation right after your primer. We often think that foundations with added sun protection are sufficient, but in reality, the sun protection function in multi-purpose foundations is only secondary because it's not the product's main purpose. Therefore, sunscreen remains the best tool for protecting your skin.

Massage while applying sunscreen.

You shouldn't rush to apply sunscreen because that will prevent it from being evenly absorbed across your face. If you frequently work outdoors, you should increase your use of sunscreen on your face. Remember to apply it to both ears, hairline, and the front and back of your neck.

Avoid water when using sunscreen.

Water significantly reduces the effectiveness of sunscreen in protecting your skin. Therefore, when using sunscreen, you shouldn't shower, or if you do shower, be sure to dry yourself thoroughly and reapply sunscreen immediately afterward.

TP (compiled)