Although sunscreen is one of the most important parts of a skincare routine, it is usually the most common thing that is skipped over, with only 11% of Americans wearing sunscreen every day. What's even more mind-blowing is that almost 50% of Americans say they NEVER wear sunscreen!! If you are someone who doesn't usually wear sunscreen, you may be asking yourself why this is such a big deal. Well, let me tell you. Sunscreen is so important to wear every day throughout the whole year because even on cold, cloudy days, up to 80% of the sun's UV rays can still get to you and your skin. Additionally, even if you are staying indoors for most of the day, and even though most windows can protect against UVB penetration, up to 75% of the sun's UVA rays (that are still harmful) can pass through a window glass. Protecting your skin from the sun's UV rays is important because this means you are more protected against premature aging, wrinkles, and some skin cancers.
Choosing Your Sunscreen
Now that you know the importance of sunscreen, you may be asking yourself how to know what kind of sunscreen you should buy. The truth is, as long as the sunscreen is labelled broad spectrum, and has at least SPF15 - SPF30, then whatever kind of sunscreen you like well enough to wear consistently is most likely perfect! However, if you need a little help deciding what sunscreen would be favorable to you, we've compiled a list to help you out a bit.
Every-Day Use
On a regular basis, or for days when you are inside most of the day, you should still be using sunscreen with at least SPF15. This is because even on these days, you still need protection from the sun when you take out the trash, walk to your car, get the mail, and other every-day things like this. And, as stated before, the sun's harmful UVA rays can still reach you through most windows.
Sensitive Skin
If you have sensitive skin or you just avoid chemicals, the best sunscreen for you would probably be mineral sunscreens, which contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Also be sure your sunscreen is fragrance-free and has no common allergens. Many sunscreens have inactive ingredients that can cause reactions, but these sunscreens work by sitting on the skin and blocking the sun to protect you.
Sports/Outdoors
If you work outside every day, or play sports outside or in water, sunscreens labelled sweat or water resistant would be suitable. However, since you would be in the sun almost every day, a sunscreen with a higher SPF would be recommended. What is also suggested is that you use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50.
Skin Color
For richly-pigmented skin, certain sunscreens can make your complexion look chalky, or unnatural. Opting for a sheer or tinted formula is usually preferred. If you are medium to dark-skinned, you can usually use SPF15 for your every-day use. For fair skin, or if you are quick/easy to burn, it is usually best to stick with SPF30 or higher.
Acne-Prone
If you have acne-prone skin, or are prone to breakouts, an oil-free and non-comedogenic formula (meaning they don't contain ingredients that block the pores), can protect your skin without adding to breakouts/blemishes.
Dry Skin
For dry skin, a two-in-one formula that contains both sunscreen and moisturizer would most likely be favorable to you. You can look for sunscreen labelled as moisturizing/hydrating, or you can find a moisturizer that has at least SPF15 or higher.