Things to consider when choosing a sunscreen

Sunscreen might seem like a summer staple, but it’s actually a year-round essential. Regardless of if it’s sunny or cloudy, hot or cold, protecting your skin from UV damage is one of the most important things you can do for your long-term health.

“Sun protection is so important, as it helps to minimize both short-term and long-term damage to the skin, including cancer,” says Rezilient Health Nurse Practitioner Katie Marshall. “UV rays can still penetrate clouds, and sun damage can occur even when it’s not sunny.”

So what should you look for in sunscreen? Is SPF 100 really better than SPF 30? And is the SPF in your moisturizer enough? Katie shares advice on what matters most when it comes to choosing and using sunscreen effectively. 

Look for these three things on the label

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, your sunscreen should check three key boxes: 

• Broad spectrum protection (guards against both UVA and UVB rays)
• SPF 30 or higher
• Water resistance

“Ultimately, the best choice in sunscreen is the one you’ll be willing to use,” Katie says. “Because some protection is always better than none.” 

SPF: What it really means

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, doesn’t measure how long sunscreen lasts – it measures how much protection it gives you from UVB rays. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 100 blocks about 99%. The increase isn’t dramatic, and no sunscreen offers 100% protection.

But what is more important than the number is reapplying. “All sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours,” Katie advises, “or more frequently depending on activity, especially if you’re swimming or sweating.” 

Choose a type that works for you 

Sunscreens come in all kinds of forms: lotions, creams, sprays, sticks, powders, even tinted versions. What you use can depend on your skin type, activity level, or simple preference: 

• Creams work best for dry skin and the face
• Gels are ideal for oily skin or hairy areas like the scalp
• Sticks are good for around the eyes
• Sprays are convenient for kids, but be sure to rub it in and spray until the skin glistens to ensure full coverage

“Don’t apply spray sunscreen while smoking or near heat or flames,” Katie cautions. “And never spray it near the face or mouth.” 

Tinted sunscreens can also help protect against visible light, which can worsen dark spots, and may provide a better cosmetic match for deeper skin tones.

What to avoid if you have sensitive skin

If you’re prone to allergies or skin irritation, read labels carefully. According to Katie, the top three allergens found in sunscreens are: 

• Benzophenone-3 (in many chemical sunscreens)
• DL-alpha-tocopherol (a synthetic form of Vitamin E in some mineral sunscreens)
• Fragrance 

“For sensitive skin, I recommend fragrance-free mineral sunscreens,” Katie says. 

Moisturizer or makeup with SPF: Is it enough?

Not quite. “While it’s better than nothing, it’s generally not enough to rely on makeup products alone for sun protection,” Katie says. These products often aren’t applied as generously as needed and usually aren’t reapplied throughout the day. 

Don’t forget the details

Some often-missed spots include: 

• Lips (use an SPF lip balm)
• Tops of your feet
• Scalp (especially if you part your hair or have thinning hair) 

And while you’re protecting your skin, consider layering in sun-protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses to round out your sun safety routine. 

“Anyone can get skin cancer, regardless of age, gender, or skin tone,” Katie adds. Daily protection matters.” 

The best sunscreen is the one you’ll actually use, so find a formula you like, use it generously, and reapply often. Your future self (and your skin) will thank you.