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We all know what sunscreen is and what it does, but you know how sunscreen works? Well first we need to dive into the different types of sunscreen.
Chemical Sunscreen
Chemical sunscreen absorbs UV rays and disperses them.
Physical Sunscreen
Physical sunscreen slightly absorbs UV rays but mostly deflects UV rays off the skin.
What SPF Do I Need?
Studies show that SPF 30-50 provides about 97% sun protection, and higher SPF isn’t necessary (and often more expensive).
What about a Spray or Cream?
If applied correctly (yes, you need to rub in spray sunscreen), either one works. My recommendation: choose the one you prefer and will actually wear regularly.
How Do I Wear It?
REAPPLY. REAPPLY. REAPPLY. Every 2 hours. This is the mistake most of us make—we apply sunscreen when we get to the beach and then go the rest of the day without it. That means we’re protected for only about 90 minutes, and after that, our skin is free to burn!
Reminder: Reapply when you get out of the water or finish a sweaty outdoor workout!
Does Sunscreen Expire?
Yes, you should refer to the expiration date on the packaging, especially if your sunscreen is frequently exposed to sun and heat.
One of the most important things I tell all my patients is that you will still get a tan even if you're wearing sunscreen. It’s essential to wear sunscreen every single day, regardless of whether you burn or not. Even if you have dark skin and don’t typically burn, you STILL need sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Don’t forget areas like your scalp, ears, and lips—these are often overlooked but are just as vulnerable to sun damage.
A Dermatologists Recommendation for SPF
As for the sunscreen I personally recommend, I use Unseen Sunscreen by Supergoop every day for its lightweight and effective protection. When reapplying over makeup, I rely on Re(Setting) Mineral Powder by Supergoop, which makes it easy to refresh my protection throughout the day.
For added sun protection during long outdoor activities, I love wearing sun shirts, which provide excellent coverage, and big hats, my personal favorite for keeping cool and shaded. There are plenty of great, budget-friendly options available on Amazon. The bottom line is simple: use the sunscreen you’ll actually wear. If you have questions or want more personalized sunscreen recommendations, or if you'd like a skin check, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment!