With the unofficial start of the summer this weekend, you’re bound to spend more time in the sun over the next few months. While you should already be wearing sunscreen every day, if you haven’t started yet, Memorial Day Weekend and #skincareawarenessmonth are a great time to start making a commitment to your skin. Sunscreen not only helps prevent against the development of skin cancer, but also prevents against photoaging. Below, find some tips on navigating different suncreens, as well as my current favorite facial sunscreens.
What’s the difference between chemical and physical sunscreens?
Chemical sunscreens are those that contain organic compounds such as Octylcrylene, Avobenzone, and Octinoxate. Physical suncreens use inorganic agents such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Chemical sunscreens are more readily available and easier to apply, but tend to be more irritating on the skin. Physical sunscreens are thicker, whiter, and harder to apply. Advantages of physical sunscreens are their limited skin penetration and sensitization. With nanotechnology, these physical sunscreens can become easier to apply, however, there is more of a risk that they may penetrate the skin.
Ultimately, sunscreens that fail to meet user demands lead to poor compliance, and poor UV protection. Not surprisingly, the best sunscreen product is the one that is readily used. So find a sunscreen (or two) that you like and you will use it regularly.
Skinmedica Essential Defense Mineral Shield: I love this physical sunscreen, as it is relatively sheer and lightweight compared to other physical sunscreens. It goes on easily and is great for everyday use. As with all the Skinmedica products, it has a great texture and is intensely moisturizing.
Beautycounter Dew Skin Moisturizing Coverage: This tinted moisturizer with SPF 20 is perfect when you want some extra coverage without the weight of a foundation. It is easy to apply, and although thinner than some other similar products out there, provides nice smooth coverage that doesn’t feel too heavy.
Thinksport KIDS Safe Sunscreen: This is the only sunscreen I use for my son. It is a physical sunscreen, and has the safest ingredients out there. It definitely goes on white, and is harder to rub in, but the scent is mild and pleasing, and it is not very thick, which makes applying it to a squirming toddler easier than you would think. I use this for myself whenever I am also applying it on my son. It is an excellent product for someone who is concerned with the safety profile of other sunscreens.
Naturopathica Daily UV Defense Cream SPF 50: I have to admit, I love just about everything from Naturopathica, and this sunscreen is no different. I only recently started using it, but like all their other products, I am hooked. It is a lightweight physical sunscreen with green tea extract to help protect the skin against free radicals.
Glossier Invisible Shield: This is by far the easiest and most pleasant sunscreen I have ever used. It is light, almost like a serum, and smells like sunshine (really). As the name suggests, it is clear, making application a breeze. I normally stay away from chemical sunscreens because they irritate my skin, but I find this one to be moisturizing and soothing. If you are a newcomer to sunscreens, and can’t seem to remain loyal, this is a good place to start.
