How Should I Choose a Sunscreen?

With summer weather and outdoor adventures just around the corner, keeping your skin safe from the sun is vital. Sunscreen is an essential tool in preventing skin cancer, something that will affect one in five Americans.

There are two main types of sunscreens: physical and chemical. Those with sensitive skin or allergies should use physical sunscreens, often marketed as mineral, sensitive, or baby. Physical sunscreens also tend to be less greasy for individuals who do not like the feel of traditional sunscreen. The main ingredients of physical sunscreens are titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide. This type of sunscreen works by having a physical barrier that sits on top of the skin and reflects UV. The newer types of physical sunscreens are less cakey than older varieties, and tinted versions exist as well.

Chemical sunscreens are appropriate for all skin types; some prefer this option since it melts into the skin. The main ingredients can include octinoxate, avobenzone, octocrylene, etc. These sunscreens work by absorbing into the skin, then converting the absorbed UV rays into heat, which then gets released back into the environment.

If you are wondering, “How should I choose a sunscreen?” our team at Natural Image OC is here to help you keep safe this summer.

What To Look For in a Sunscreen

When deciding on a sun protection lotion, it is important to look for the following on the label:

• Broad spectrum: This will protect you from ultraviolet (UV) A and UV B rays, both of which can cause skin cancer
• Sun protection factor (SPF) 30 or higher: This measures how well a sunscreen protects you from burning—for example SPF 30 keeps out 97 percent of UV rays
• Water-resistant: This helps the sunscreen protect you while you are swimming or underwater, typically offering 40 to 80 minutes of protection

If you have sensitive skin, a physical filter sunscreen is less likely to cause a negative reaction compared to a sun cream that uses chemical ingredients. Options with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are beneficial.

Sunscreen is available in a variety of options, such as lotions, gels, sprays, and sticks. Some sunscreens may offer tinting or antiaging ingredients, or even benefits for acne-prone skin.

How Often To Reapply Sunscreen

While selecting the best sun cream for your needs is important, applying sunscreen properly is also essential. When using sunscreen on your entire body, you should apply one ounce. For your face, you can use a nickel-sized amount.

You should apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going out, reapplying every few hours and directly after swimming or sweating. Toweling your skin after swimming will remove sunscreen, so you should reapply it immediately after using a towel.

It is important to be extra vigilant when applying sunscreen if:

• You have pale skin
• You are putting it on your child
• It is summertime
• You will be outside at midday
• You will be at higher altitudes

You should also be aware that certain medications—including acne treatments, allergy medications, antibiotics, and inflammatories—can increase your sun sensitivity.

Sunscreen is typically good for up to three years, although you should follow the product’s use-by date. When not using your sunscreen, it is helpful to store it in a cool, dry place away from humidity and heat if possible.

Some Sunscreens We Recommend

Physical Sunscreens:

• Isdin Eryfotona Actinica
• Isdin Eryfotona Ageless (tinted)
• Revision Intellishade TruPhysical (tinted)
• eltaMD UV AOX Mist

Chemical Sunscreens:

• eltaMD varieties

Contact Natural Image OC Today for Advice on Picking the Best Sunscreen for Your Summer Adventures

Sunscreen is an essential part of a safe summer. Our team at Natural Image OC is here to support your safety and wellness as you spend time in Orange County. If you are wondering how to choose a sunscreen, get in touch with our team today for guidance and to learn more about the best year-round skin practices.