It’s one of dermatologist’s favorite things to preach: wear sunscreen. Wear it when you go out in the sun. Wear it even when it’s cloudy. That being said, it is true; you should check the UV index on your weather app, because even if it is not sunny, there are still harmful UVA and UVB rays in the atmosphere. Harmful UV rays penetrate clouds and get to your skin if it’s not protected, as harmful rays can lead to premature aging, wrinkles, skin damage, sunburn, and skin cancer.
But are you choosing the right sunscreen? Dermatologist Rebecca Kazin, MD, FAAD, associate director at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery weighs in on what you need to know before you buy and apply:
Myth: You always need to apply sunscreen before going out
Fact: Some sunscreens work immediately
There’s the thought that you should always slather on SPF a full 20 minutes before sun exposure, because that’s the time it takes to start working. That’s true for chemical sunscreens (like those with avobenzone or oxybenzone) because these use a chemical reaction to dissipate UV light. However, physical blocking sunscreens (like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide formulas) sit on the top of the skin and deflect UV light, so they start working immediately.
Myth: Sunscreen makes me breakout
Fact: Some are less likely to clog pores
Physical blocking SPFs tend to be less irritating, and that can lead to fewer breakouts. Dr. Kazin particularly recommends these for patients with sensitive skin or rosacea. If you have acne-prone or oily skin, go for a powder sunscreen.
Myth: If you have dry skin, you can use any sunscreen
Fact: You might find physical blockers to be too chalky for your skin and be bothered by the white residue they leave behind. Go for a chemical sunscreen instead, as these will be easier to apply.
Here are Dr. Kazin’s Top SPF Picks: (And don’t forget to add sunscreen to your hands and neck)
Best chemical sunscreen: Revision Skincare Intellishade, a broad-spectrum anti-aging tinted moisturizer.
Best physical blocking sunscreen: EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41, which is lightly tinted, oil-free, and water-resistant, and SkinCeuticals Physical Matte UV Defense SPF 50, an oil-absorbing, matte formula that hides sweaty skin.
Best anti-aging sunscreen: Journee Riche from Neocutis combines antioxidants and broad-spectrum protection to minimize fine lines and wrinkles while offering top-notch protection.
