Which Sunscreen Is Right for Me?

When the weather gets warm, especially in summertime, many of us look forward to spending more time outside. While sunlight can provide essential Vitamin D and even boost your mood, unprotected exposure to the sun can cause skin damage and lead to skin cancer. If you want to enjoy the outdoors this summer, it is important to remember to keep your skin protected.

What are the benefits of sunscreen?

Sunscreen protects your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays can damage the skin on a cellular level, leading to premature skin aging and skin cancer. Sunscreen filters out most UV rays but not completely. The amount of UV light a sunscreen filters out depends on the sun protection factor (SPF) level.

Sunscreen also helps prevent sunburn. UVB (ultraviolet B) rays have a shorter wavelength than UVA rays, and primarily affect the outer layer of the skin. While UVB rays make up only about 5% of the UV rays from the sun, they cause most sunburns. The intensity of UVB rays varies depending on the time of day and year. Keep in mind that you can get a sunburn at any time of year, even on cloudy days.

"Choosing the right sunscreen is one of the best ways to protect your skin and reduce your risk for skin cancer and other sun-related conditions.”

Sherissa Charles, MD, Family Medicine Physician at Catholic Health

What are the different types of sunscreen?

There are two types of sunscreens: mineral and chemical.

Mineral sunscreen (or physical sunscreen) contains titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. Physical sunscreen sits on the surface of the skin and uses natural minerals to physically deflect UV rays. It acts like a shield and prevents UV rays from penetrating the skin. Physical sunscreen is also known as sunblock because it blocks rays from reaching the skin.

Chemical sunscreen does not contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. It absorbs into the skin and absorbs UV rays before they can cause damage. Chemical sunscreen converts UV rays into heat that the skin can release. The main ingredients in chemical sunscreen include avobenzone, homosalate, oxybenzone, octisalate and octocrylene.

Is sunscreen safe for all skin types?

“Sunscreen is safe and necessary for all skin types and tones,” said Dr. Charles. “A common misconception is that people with darker skin tones do not need protection from the sun. Although melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color, blocks some of the sun’s rays, it does not block them completely. Sunscreen is an effective defense.”

Sunscreen is also available for different skin types, such as dry or sensitive skin. People with sensitive skin may want to choose physical sunscreen since it does not absorb into the skin.

What are the SPF recommendations for adults and children?

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends SPF 30 or higher for adults and children over 6 months. Children under 6 months should be kept out of direct sunlight.

The SPF level tells you how well sunscreen protects skin against sunburn. The number after SPF tells you how much longer untanned skin will take to redden. For example, SPF 30 means it would take your skin 30 times longer to burn with sunscreen than without it.

How much sunscreen should I use and how often should I apply it?

Apply enough sunscreen to cover any exposed skin. Adults generally need about one ounce of sunscreen for full coverage. That is the equivalent of about one shot glass full of sunscreen.

Remember to apply sunscreen to your feet, ears, neck, and the top of your head. You should also use a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips.

Reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating. No sunscreen is truly waterproof. The label should tell you how long the sunscreen lasts while swimming or sweating—many last 40 to 80 minutes.

“Even on a cloudy day, you need to apply sunscreen,” said Dr. Charles. She also noted that avoiding the sun and finding shade or air conditioning on days with scorching temperatures is best to protect your skin and reduce your risk for heat illnesses.

Apply Sunscreen to Both Your Face and Body

Sunscreen is available for both your face and body. The skin on your face is thinner than the skin on your body and needs more protection. Facial sunscreens often have unique formulas to make them easier to absorb. Although you can use body sunscreen on your face, it is not recommended.

Do I need new sunscreen every year?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires sunscreens to retain their original strength for at least three years. If your sunscreen's expiration date has passed, throw it away. If the bottle does not have an expiration date, try to remember when you bought it. If it was more than three years ago, it may have lost its strength and will not be as effective.

If the sunscreen's color or consistency has changed, throw it away. Sunscreen can break down if it is not stored correctly. If the bottle is exposed to direct sunlight or excessive heat, it can lose its effectiveness faster.

Is SPF clothing effective?

Sunscreen is one of several ways to protect yourself from sun damage. Sun-protective clothing can also help. Clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF), like SPF, also blocks some of the sun’s rays. The color and fabric of the clothing can also make a difference. Dark and bright colors block more UV rays. Sheer fabric is less protective than canvas or denim.

It is important not to rely solely on sunscreen when you go outside. Wear protective clothing, including sunglasses and hats, and seek shade if you are outside between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest.

Schedule Your Skin Exam

“Talk to your primary care physician about when you should start seeing a dermatologist for an annual skin exam,” said Dr. Charles. “Let them know if you notice any unusual skin markings, spots or growths. They can refer you to a dermatologist for further diagnosis and treatment.”