As the temperature rises, it is essential to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Sunscreen is an indispensable tool in safeguarding your skin from premature aging, sunburn, and skin cancers.

However, not all sunscreens are created equal. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know which one to choose. Here are thirty things to consider before buying sunscreen:.

Sun Protection Factor (SPF)

The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is a measure of how well a sunscreen protects against only UVB rays, which cause sunburn. Higher SPF numbers indicate a higher degree of sunburn protection.

Broad-Spectrum Protection

Broad-spectrum sunscreen provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays, which helps prevent premature aging and skin cancer.

Water-Resistance

Water-resistant sunscreens maintain their stated SPF levels even after exposure to water or sweat for up to 40 or 80 minutes of swim time, respectively.

Reapplication Time

Reapplication frequency depends on the SPF level, time spent outdoors, and degree of activity. The recommended reapplication time is every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.

Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreens

Physical sunscreens contain minerals like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which function as a physical barrier and reflect UV rays away from the skin.

Chemical sunscreens use chemicals like oxybenzone and avobenzone, which absorb UV rays and requires 20-30 minutes of waiting before sun exposure.

Sensitivity and Allergies

Individuals with sensitive skin or allergies should choose a sunscreen that is made for sensitive skin or is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.

Age of User

Sunscreens formulated for infants and young children usually contain titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, are hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free. They also have lower SPF values and are water-resistant to accommodate frequent changing and bathing.

Skin Type

Choose a sunscreen that is suitable for your skin type. Those with dry skin should look for sunscreens with moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin.

Formulation

Sunscreens come in various formulations, including creams, gels, sprays, and no-rub sprays. Choose a formulation that caters to personal preference and needs.

Sunscreen Expiration Date

Sunscreens have a shelf life of two to three years. It is essential to check the expiration date to ensure the sunscreen is still effective.

Brand

Choose a reputable brand that uses quality ingredients and has high customer ratings and reviews.

Application Process

Read the application instructions, and ensure the sunscreen is applied generously to all exposed areas. Most adults need one ounce, or the amount found in a shot glass, of sunscreen to cover all exposed areas.

Ingredients

Choose sunscreens with safe and effective ingredients.

Avoid sunscreens containing oxybenzone, a chemical that is harmful to marine life, and retinyl palmitate, a form of Vitamin A that may cause skin irritation and increase skin sensitivity to the sun.

Sunscreen Formulation for Active Lifestyle

For an active lifestyle, choose a sunscreen that is highly water-resistant and formulated to provide long-lasting protection even when engaged in sporting activities or swimming.

Consistency

Sunscreens should have an even and consistent spreadability throughout the skin. They should not be too thick or too thin.

Sunscreen Application Before and After Skincare Routine

Apply sunscreen after your skincare routine and before makeup application. Ensure the sunscreen is fully absorbed into the skin before applying makeup.

Sunscreen for Tanned Skin

Tanned skin requires sunscreens with higher SPF levels because tanning increases the skin’s sensitivity to UV radiation.

Sunscreen for Fair Skin

Fair-skinned individuals should choose sunscreens with a high SPF level and broad-spectrum protection to avoid sunburn and premature aging.

Sunscreen for Oily Skin

Choose a lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic sunscreen that dries to a matte finish to avoid oil buildup and acne breakouts.

Sun Protection Clothing

Wearing sun-protective clothing, like hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts, is an additional way to protect from harmful UV rays.

Sunscreen for Sensitive Areas

Choose a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic sunscreen for sensitive areas like the face and neck.

Cost of Sunscreen

Sunscreens range in price depending on the brand and formulation. Choosing a higher-priced sunscreen does not necessarily mean it is more effective than a lower-priced option.

Sunscreen and Medications

Some prescription and over-the-counter medications react to UV radiation and may cause increased sun sensitivity. Consult a healthcare provider before using sunscreen if taking medication.

Work and Lifestyle Habits

Choose a sunscreen that is portable and easy to apply to accommodate lifestyle needs. Also, ensure to use sunscreen daily, regardless of occupation, and even on cloudy days.

Sun Time Exposure

Avoid sun exposure during peak hours, usually between 10 am to 4 pm, when the sun’s rays are strongest. Choose a sunscreen that provides long-lasting protection and apply as directed.

Organic Sunscreen

Chemical sunscreens, which are derived from synthetic compounds and petroleum, have raised concerns about potential adverse effects.

Organic sunscreens, on the other hand, use natural ingredients like beeswax, coconut oil, and shea butter to provide sun protection.

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate can harm marine life, and reef-safe sunscreens are an alternative that doesn’t contain these harmful ingredients.

Sunscreen and Diet

Include foods rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C in your diet. These foods help prevent sun damage from the inside.

Sunburn Treatment

Sunburns can be painful and irritating. Choose a sunscreen that contains aloe vera or other soothing ingredients to prevent and treat sunburns.

Sunscreen for Darker Skin Tones

Darker-skinned individuals also require sunscreen protection as their skin is still susceptible to sunburn and skin cancer. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an adequate SPF level to protect against harmful UV rays.