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Although sunscreen is often linked to sunny beach days, experts emphasize the importance of shielding your skin from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays throughout the year.
Even on overcast days, up to 80 percent of the sun’s rays can reach your skin. It’s also startling to know that one in five Americans will face skin cancer in their lifetime. “Each sunburn drastically raises your chances of developing skin cancer,” explains Dr. Karan Lal, a board-certified dermatologist in Arizona, to Mytour. He adds that daily sunscreen use is crucial because UV rays accelerate photoaging, which breaks down collagen and elastin, leading to brown spots and broken blood vessels over time.
What should you do? Applying sunscreen is essential, but with so many options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. To help, we consulted experts to highlight what to look for—and what to avoid—when selecting the best sunscreen.
Sunscreen Essentials: Key Facts You Should Know
Most people understand the importance of considering SPF (sun protection factor) when choosing sunscreen. Dr. Anthony Rossi, a board-certified dermatologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and founder of Dr. Rossi DERM MD, explains that SPF measures the “ratio of UVB ray exposure on protected skin versus unprotected skin.”
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), it’s crucial to choose a sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, has an SPF of 30 or higher, and is water-resistant. Dr. Rossi agrees, recommending an SPF of at least 25 to 30, though he emphasizes that SPF 30 or above is ideal. “This also depends on reapplying every two hours and applying a generous, even layer of sunscreen,” he tells Mytour.
But how much sunscreen should you use? Dr. Lal suggests that a shot glass-sized amount is sufficient to cover your entire body for proper protection. Don’t forget to check the expiration date, as sunscreen typically lasts about three years from purchase, as mandated by the FDA
Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens: Understanding the Key Differences
In addition to SPF, it’s crucial to scrutinize the ingredients in your sunscreen, as some formulations are superior to others. There are two main types: chemical and mineral (or physical) sunscreens. The AAD explains that chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays “like a sponge,” whereas mineral sunscreens act as a shield, deflecting the sun’s rays.
Chemical sunscreens penetrate the skin and often include active ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate. Their lightweight application and lack of white residue make them a favorite among consumers. However, recent research and studies indicate that oxybenzone and avobenzone may pose risks for children and pregnant individuals.
Mineral sunscreens, in contrast, remain on the skin’s surface and typically feature zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients. While highly effective, the AAD points out that mineral sunscreens often leave a white cast unless you opt for a tinted version.
The key is to choose a sunscreen you’ll use daily that suits your skin type. “For sensitive skin, avoid chemical sunscreens containing avobenzone, oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, and octyl salicylate,” advises Dr. Lal. “These are more likely to trigger allergic reactions.” Dr. Rossi, who avoids parabens, favors mineral sunscreens, traditionally referred to as sunblock. “Mineral sunblocks are gentler and less likely to cause irritation or allergies compared to chemical filters,” he adds.
Whether you opt for chemical or mineral sunscreen, always read the label to understand its benefits and performance. Consulting a dermatologist or healthcare provider before making a choice is also a wise step.
Top 4 Sunscreens You Should Consider Buying Today
1. Best Mineral Sunscreen: CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30; $18
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 | Available on CeraVe / AmazonDr. Lal praises CeraVe for creating the best mineral sunscreen. It features zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to block UVA/UVB rays, along with three essential ceramides that help repair the skin’s barrier and retain moisture. Free from oxybenzone, avobenzone, and benzene, it’s ideal for sensitive skin. “CeraVe’s hydrating mineral sunscreen, available in tinted and non-tinted versions, is incredibly gentle and my top choice for pediatric patients and those with highly sensitive skin,” Dr. Lal explains.
Purchase: Amazon
2. Best Chemical Sunscreen: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Body & Face Sunscreen SPF 60; $26
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Body & Face Sunscreen SPF 60 | Available on La Roche-Posay / AmazonLa Roche-Posay is another dermatologist-approved brand. Dr. Holly R. Mason, a dermatologist at Northeast Dermatology Associates in Salem, Massachusetts, highly recommends their Anthelios melt-in milk sunscreen for both body and face. Its active ingredients include avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene, but it’s free from oxybenzone and octinoxate. The formula features the brand’s unique Cell-Ox shield, offering antioxidant protection that’s ideal for sensitive skin prone to sunburn.
Purchase: Amazon
3. Best Tinted Mineral Sunscreen With High SPF: EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Tinted Face Sunscreen; $41
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Tinted Face Sunscreen | Available on EltaMD / AmazonThis fragrance-free, tinted mineral sunscreen, formulated with zinc oxide, soothes and shields sensitive skin. Dr. Lal notes that it “applies smoothly” and provides broad-spectrum protection against damaging UVA and UVB rays.
Purchase: Amazon
4. Best for Reapplication: Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder Sunscreen SPF 35 PA+++; $35
Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder Sunscreen SPF 35 PA+++ | Available on Supergoop! / AmazonDr. Lal is a big fan of Supergoop! due to its diverse sunscreen options. He particularly recommends this mineral powder sunscreen for reapplication, calling it his “favorite.” Made with 100% zinc oxide, ceramides, and olive glycerides (which help lock in moisture), it comes in four shades, including a translucent option. “I use it daily when outdoors,” Dr. Lal shares. “It’s drying, absorbs moisture, and is incredibly easy to apply!”
Purchase: Amazon
This article was first published in 2022 and has been revised for 2023.
