SPF only refers to blocking UVB rays, not UVA rays, and both of these can damage your skin. High SPFs have been shown to allow more UVA rays to reach your skin while not providing much better protection against UVB rays. Additionally, high SPFs do not last any longer than lower SPFs.
Consider using mineral-based ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These sit on top of the skin rather than being absorbed. These ingredients are able to reflect UV rays and have been shown to be safe and effective ingredients in preventing negative effects of the sun. [6] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source They tend to be more effective than chemical sunscreens. [7] X Expert Source Kelly ChuProfessional Makeup Artist Expert Interview. 9 May 2019. You can find great mineral-based sunscreen options online here. If using chemicals, choose ones that protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Mexoryl SX, Mexoryl XL and Parsol 1789 are some chemicals that protect against UVA rays. Octinoxate, Octisalate and Homosalate are chemicals that protect against UVB rays. Look for a sunblock that contains these chemicals for the best overall protection from both types of rays. Avoid sunblocks that contain extracts of fruits or nuts. They have not been shown to block the sun and many of them can cause allergic reactions.
You can find broad spectrum sunscreen options here.
You can find water-resistant sunscreen options online here.
To limit your sun exposure, try taking breaks. For example, if you are going to the beach for a day, spend an hour swimming and then go inside somewhere to eat lunch and reapply sunscreen.
Another factor to keep in mind is your location. If you are in Mexico versus Canada, your sun exposure will be quite different! Protect yourself accordingly.
Certain skin types are more at risk for skin cancer. Fair skin with light hair or red hair tends to be most at risk for sunburns and cancer. Be especially careful if any family members have had skin cancer. Make sure to protect yourself with appropriate sunscreen and other protective measures such as dark clothing. [14] X Research source
For very young kids, those under 6 months old, sunscreen is not recommended. Instead protect them by keeping them in the shade, limiting their sun exposure, and having them wear a hat and protective clothing.
Try to limit time in the sun between 10am and 4pm when the rays are strongest.
If you find one that you like but you aren’t ready to buy it, write down its name so that you can read up on it later. This can help you to make an even more informed decision.
If there are a few that seem about equal, go ahead and just pick one and give it a try. If you have enough money, consider buying two so that you can try them both and see which you prefer.
If you need a sunscreen immediately and don’t have time to conduct a lot of research, go for a cream that is SPF 30, broad spectrum, paraben free, with zinc oxide and no oxybenzone or retinyl palmitate.
