Sunscreen Guide
What sunscreen should I use?
Sunscreens can be confusing, so let’s simplify it. There are two main things to consider: SPF and type of blocker.
SPF:
SPF tells you how well a sunscreen protects against the sun’s damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays. Higher SPF means more protection—but no sunscreen lasts all day. Reapply every 1.5 to 2 hours when outdoors or swimming.
Spray sunscreens make reapplication much easier (especially for kids). While sprays may not cover as evenly as lotions, they’re still more effective if you actually use them. SPF 30 is fine for most situations, but in very sunny or high-altitude areas, SPF 50 or higher is needed.
Type of blocker:
There are two main types of sunscreen blockers: physical and chemical.
Physical blockers (also called mineral blockers) contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide—just look for “zinc” or “titanium” on the label. These work immediately by reflecting the sun’s rays and are less likely to cause allergic reactions. That’s why they’re common in “sensitive skin” and “baby” sunscreens.
Physical sunscreens can leave a white cast and be harder to rub in, but they’re still the best choice for kids and for sensitive skin.
Great physical blockers:
All other active sunscreen ingredients are chemical blockers. These work by being absorbed into the skin, which takes about 20–30 minutes before they start protecting you. The problem is, most people apply sunscreen once they’re already outdoors—at the pool, beach, or on a hike—so their skin is exposed and unprotected during that time.
Some chemical blockers can trigger allergic reactions, and a few have even been banned in Hawaii for contributing to coral reef damage. That said, chemical sunscreens are often less expensive and tend to rub in more easily than mineral sunscreens.
Great chemical blockers:
Tinted sunscreens
Recent research shows that visible light—especially blue light from phones, computers, and the sun—can contribute to hyperpigmentation (dark spots). Tinted sunscreens containing iron oxides help block this visible light and are effective at preventing and reducing dark spots, including melasma.
Great tinted sunscreens:
European Sunscreens:
European sunscreens are far ahead of those in the U.S. because Europe classifies them as cosmetics, allowing faster innovation. The U.S. hasn’t approved a new sunscreen ingredient in nearly 20 years.
Most European sunscreens contain TRIAZINE and TRIAZONE, which 1) rub in easily, 2) leave no white film, and 3) last longer. When I was in Amsterdam, even $2 store-brand sunscreens were better than most U.S. options.
If you know someone traveling to Europe, ask them to bring back a few bottles. My favorite is La Roche-Posay Anthelios Milk SPF 50+ Eco Tube—look for TRIAZINE and TRIAZONE on the label.
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