A Guide To Finding The Perfect Sunscreen
Warm, sunny days are finally here and hopefully you’ve got some beach time marked on your calendars! Be sun-smart and make sure to save some space in your beach bag for your favorite SPF. While sunscreen is usually at the forefront of people’s mind during the warmer months, wearing it should be a practice year-round. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States and is also the number one cause of visible aging like wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.
WHICH SUNSCREEN SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?
First off, you’ll want to choose a sunscreen that’s labeled “broad-spectrum” as it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are known as the “aging rays” because they penetrate into the dermal layers of the skin causing wrinkles and sunspots. UVB rays are known as the “burning rays” and they cause inflammation and sunburns. Overexposure to both can lead to skin cancer and premature aging.
HOW DO YOU KNOW WHICH SPF YOU NEED?
SPF stands for sun protection factor and is a measure of how much UV light a sunscreen can filter out. An SPF 15 blocks about 93% of UV rays and an SPF 30 blocks roughly 97%. Dermatologists and physicians recommend using a minimum SPF 30 every day. More important than the SPF number is the amount and frequency applied. The rule of thumb is a shot glass amount for the body and a thimble sized amount for the face. Unfortunately, even the highest SPF is only going to protect the skin for a maximum of 2 hours so reapplication is critical. If you’re swimming, sweating, or playing sports you’ll likely need to reapply more often.
It’s important to note that no sunscreen can completely protect you from the ravages of UV rays so shade breaks, hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing are vital.
WHICH SPF IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
This is going to depend mostly on your skin type and condition. If your skin is oily or prone to breakout activity you’ll want to opt for formulations that are oil-free and non-comedogenic. If your skin is dry/dehydrated, choose sunscreen-moisturizer combos or sunscreens that are designed specifically for dry skin. Sensitive skin conditions are much better suited for mineral based sunscreens as they tend to be less irritating. They create a shield that blocks UV rays from penetrating the skin versus chemical sunscreens which absorb UV light and turn it into heat.
WHAT IS THE BEST SUNSCREEN AVAILABLE?
Just like with skincare products, consistency is crucial. The best sunscreen is the one you’re going to use every day so find one that you love, or at least one that you like enough to use all the time. As for the formulation, or vehicle your sunscreen comes in, that’s all about your personal preference. Sunscreens come in a multitude of different varieties from creams and gels to lotions and sprays. Some would argue that creams are better than sprays but we disagree. The efficacy of a sunscreen is based on the SPF factor and the amount and frequency applied, not the formulation or it’s consistency.
SO WHAT DO WE USE?
At SKIN, we take our sun protection very seriously and are huge fans of the Elta MD brand. Although we have a vast array of SPF options in our practice, Elta MD is definitely the fan favorite and it’s the #1 dermatologist-recommended sunscreen brand. Below is a list of the options we carry and a simplified breakdown of their benefits and features.
EltaMD Elements SPF 44 tinted/untinted-Stephanie’s obsession!
This 100% physical, ultra-moisturizing sunscreen is perfect for even the most sensitive skin types and can even be used post-procedure. Zinc oxide and Titanium dioxide provide full spectrum UV protection while hyaluronic acid smooths and hydrates the skin. UV Elements has a universal tint that provides a light coverage to beautifully enhance most skin tones. It can be used under makeup or as a stand-alone beauty product.
Why we love it-
Chemical-free UV filters
Can be used as a minimal-coverage makeup
Provides antioxidant protection to combat free-radical damage
Contains hyaluronic acid to provide additional skin moisture
Free from dyes, fragrance, gluten, oils, and parabens
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46-Dr. Colvin’s go-to sunscreen!
This oil-free sunscreen is a favorite amongst our male patients and is fantastic for calming and protecting the skin. Can be used post-treatment and after shaving. It contains niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and lactic acid which are ingredients that promote healthy-looking skin. This ultra-lightweight formulation leaves no residue and has a smooth, silky texture. EltaMD UV Clear is also available in a tinted formula.
Why we love it-
Calms and protects acne prone skin
Safe to use on even the most sensitive skin types including rosacea
Antioxidants combat UV induced skin aging
Full spectrum UV protection
Non-chemical, physical sunscreen that blends seamlessly into the skin
EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 tinted and untinted-Emily’s favorite!
Imagine if superior hydration and serious protection had a baby! The result would be an ultra-moisturizing, lightweight lotion that also provides full-spectrum UV coverage. We call that a win-win! EltaMD UV daily also contains a hefty dose of hyaluronic acid that diminishes the appearance of fine lines. Suitable for all skin types but is especially targeted towards dry/dehydrated skin conditions. Can be worn alone or underneath makeup.
Why we love it-
Full spectrum UVA/UVB protection
Great for all skin conditions
Provides additional protection against infrared radiation (IR)
Absorbs quickly into the skin
No sticky residue
Transparent zinc oxide allow product to glide easily into the skin
Paraben-free, fragrance-free, sensitivity-free and non-comedogenic
Elta MD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50-Julianna’s play-day SPF!
We want everyone to have their fun-in-the-sun but always play it safe! This is the perfect sunscreen for our outdoor enthusiasts. UV Sport is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and won’t sweat or rub off the skin. This is a great option for swimmers, kayakers, runners, and other athletes as it doesn’t drip into the eyes causing the dreaded sting.
Why we love it-
Can be applied to wet or dry skin
Water resistant up to 80 minutes
Full spectrum UVA/UVB protection
Transparent zinc oxide blends seamlessly
Additional antioxidant protection to combat skin aging
EltaMD Lip Balm SPF 31-Caroline won’t leave home without it!
Nothing says kissable quite like soft, smooth lips! Keep your pucker pristine and line free with this ultra-moisturizing, protective lip-balm. Contains 5% hydromanil that provides immediate and long-term lip hydration. Hydromanil slowly and sequentially releases moisturizing molecules deep into the skin resulting in a significant and noticeable increase in hydration. This is the ideal lip balm for all skin types and lifestyles.
Why we love it-
Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
Smooch-proof
Full spectrum UVA/UVB protection
5% transparent zinc oxide provides invisible protection
Antioxidant rich to absorb free radicals and prevent lip lines
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free, non comedogenic
Shop all these products by clicking their links in this post or on our shop here!
Want a customized skincare routine? Not sure where to start? Book a skin consultation with our Aesthetician! Call us at 415.409.6500 or book online!
To learn more, contact our San Francisco office and call us at 415.409.6500.