Interested in the best sunscreen skin type matches and other SPF-related tips? Invest in your skin and keep its future bright by learning how to protect it from the sun and harmful UV rays. In this blog we’ll at the fundamentals of sunscreen, why it’s so important, and how to choose the best sunscreen for all skin types.
Sunscreen Basics
We’ve all seen the viral photos comparing the skin of a life-long sunscreen devotee to that of a hit-and-miss user. Sunscreen’s purpose is to protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. There are two types of UV rays; UVA and UVB. UVA can accelerate the signs of ageing such as wrinkles and sunspots, while UVB will leave you with potentially painful sunburn.
Both UVA and UVA increase the risk of developing skin cancer, and have the ability to penetrate cloud cover – which is why sun protection should be an essential part of your skincare routine, no matter what climate you live in. Sunscreen is the best defence against the effects of sun damage.
What is sunscreen and why is it important?
Sunscreen is a skincare product designed to either absorb or reflect UV rays, protecting your skin from their harmful effects. While for many of us sunscreen is considered a toiletry product that only sees use during the summer holidays, there’s an increasing amount of medical evidence that supports the use of sunscreen every day.
Types of sunscreens: physical vs chemical
There are two main types of sunscreen. The first is what’s known as physical (or mineral) sunscreen; this type of sunscreen contains ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Physical sunscreen sits on top of the skin and reflects UV rays away, preventing them from doing any harm. The second type of sunscreen, chemical sunscreen, absorbs UV rays and converts them into harmless heat.
Choosing the Right SPF
Do you understand what SPF stands for, and how this rating system works?
What does SPF mean?
The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of a sunscreen determines how well it protects you from UVB rays specifically. The number associated with each strength of SPF tells you how long it would take for the sun to burn your skin with that SPF in place, compared to without any protection at all. For example, wearing SPF 50 means that it would take 50 times longer to burn than if you hadn’t applied any sunscreen.
How to choose the correct SPF for your skin
No sunscreen blocks 100% of UV rays, but some come closer than others.
- SPF 15 blocks approximately 93% of UVB rays.
- SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays.
- SPF 50 blocks approximately 98% of UVB rays.
Picking the right SPF for you will depend on multiple factors – for example, if you have fair skin, it’s likely that you’re more prone to burning than people with darker skin tones and more melanin. However, some form of daily SPF is recommended no matter your skin colour. Other factors to consider when selecting an SPF include:
- How much time you spend outdoors.
- Whether or not you’re likely to sweat.
- Your age.
You also need to consider which sunscreen formulas will work the best for you depending on your skin type.
Considering Your Skin Type
Everyone knows that different skin types need different things from their cosmetics, and sunscreen is no exception, especially when used on your face. If you know your skin needs special considerations, you’ll benefit from understanding the best sunscreen for all skin types.
Sunscreen for sensitive skin
If your skin is easily irritated, look for sunscreen that are advertised as being designed for sensitive skin. Avoiding anything heavily fragranced, and read labels carefully to ensure that you can avoid any ingredients you know to be aggravating. Physical sunscreen is generally considered to be better for sensitive skin, as it sits on top of the skin instead of being absorbed.
Sunscreen for oily or acne-prone skin
Those with oily, acne-prone skin will need to look for non-comedogenic sunscreen, as this means it is less likely to block pores and is most-likely oil free. Some sunscreens may even include ingredients specifically used to target acne, such as azelaic acid.
Sunscreen for dry skin
UV rays can contribute to moisture loss in the skin, so it’s especially important for those with dry skin to remember their daily SPF. Look for sunscreens that come in a rich, lotion-like formula, and include hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid.
Ingredients: Which to Look for and Which to Avoid
Even if you’re blessed with perfectly balanced skin, you’re likely still interested in the best sunscreen for normal skin types. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key sunscreen ingredients; which to run towards, and which to run away from.
Beneficial ingredients in sunscreen
- Zinc oxide – for broad-spectrum protection for even the most sensitive skin.
- Vitamin E – to reduce free radicals, and reduce the signs of ageing.
- Aloe vera – for calming and soothing skin that may have already experience sun damage.
Ingredients to avoid
- Oxybenzone – there are concerns that this chemical filter can cause hormonal disruption, as well as causing damage to marine ecosystems.
- Fragrance – many sunscreens include synthetic fragrances that can exacerbate skin concerns such as eczema.
- Petroleum-derived emulsifiers – due to the petroleum base sunscreens containing this can be harsh on skin, as well as bad for the environment.
Additional Tips for Using Sunscreen
Do you consider yourself an SPF novice? Here are some tips for getting the most out of your sunscreen.
How and when to apply
- Always apply sunscreen to clean, dry skin for maximum effectiveness. When applying facial SPF after moisturising, allow your moisturiser to fully absorb beforehand.
- Apply more than you think you need, especially when it comes to your face – most people use too little sunscreen, reducing its effectiveness.
- Don’t forget, your lips need SPF protection too.
- Ideally SPF should be worn daily, year-round, but it’s especially important to apply it around 15-30 minutes before sun exposure.
- Make sure to reapply your sunscreen every two hours, especially if you’ve been sweating excessively, or swimming.
- Check the UV index when you know you’re going to be spending lots of time outdoors – it'll tell you when the UV rays are at their strongest.
Common sunscreen myths
There are lots of myths commonly associated with wearing sunscreen. Let’s debunk some of the big ones.
Myth: You only need to wear sunscreen when it’s sunny.
Truth: UV rays can penetrate clouds, and reflect off snow, water, and sand, making sunscreen important year-round and at any location.
Myth: People with darker skin tones don’t need sunscreen.
Truth: While melanin provides some protection against UV rays, it doesn’t make skin immune to sunburn, skin cancer, or the effects of premature ageing.
Myth: Wearing sunscreen blocks the body’s ability to produce vitamin D from sunlight.
Truth: Using sunscreen doesn’t prevent the UV exposure required from vitamin D production – and those with deficiencies can always use a supplement to boost their levels.
Don’t Sizzle in the Sun
Sunscreen should be a non-negotiable part of your skincare routine, no matter what climate you live in. If you’re looking for high-quality sun protection and aftercare, why not take a look at La Roche-Posay's Anthelios and Posthelios .