BEST SUNSCREEN TO PICK

When selecting a sunscreen, it's essential to choose one formulated with transparent zinc oxide, and is noncomedogenic, sensitivity-free, fragrance-free, and paraben-free. 

SPF 30 or SPF 50?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, indicating how well the sunscreen protects skin against sunburn. A sunscreen with SPF 30 protects you from around 96.7% of UV rays, whereas SPF 50 means protection from about 98% of UV rays. Anything beyond SPF 50 makes little difference in terms of sun damage risk, as no sunscreens offer 100% protection from UV rays. Therefore, wearing a hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing is also necessary to avoid sun damage. 

Physical or Chemical Sunscreen? What Is the Difference?

The two most common types are chemical and physical sunscreens. 

Physical Sunscreens

Physical sunscreens, or sun blocks, use mineral-based ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to create a barrier on the skin that blocks UV rays. They protect against UVA and UVB rays, are safe for babies and during pregnancy, and offer immediate protection. They are less likely to irritate sensitive skin and are better for heat-activated skin conditions like acne or rosacea but need frequent reapplication. 

Chemical Sunscreens

Chemical sunscreens, or organic sunscreens, contain compounds like oxybenzone and avobenzone that absorb UV rays, convert them into heat, and then release and scatter the heat from the skin. Chemical sunscreens are not recommended for acne-prone, rosacea-prone, or irritated skin but are ideal for daily use due to their thinner formulation that spreads on the skin like a lotion. 

Expert Recommendation

What I, Brigitte Beasse, Skin Care Expert, Recommend to My Clients:

“When my clients have normal to dry, sensitive, or breakout-prone skin, I highly recommend a physical sunscreen like Bio Jouvance 50+ daily moisturizer. Its formulation contains all the ingredients to protect and treat their skin with key vitamins and hyaluronic acid. However, oilier skin tends to tolerate oil-free chemical sunscreens better, such as the Oil-Free Glo 40+ Daily moisturizing sunscreen. These sunscreens act only when UV rays contact the skin, transforming the UV rays into heat, making them feel less heavy on oily skin as they do not require frequent reapplication. GLO Beauty Skin C-Shield Anti-Pollution Moisture Tint SPF 30 is also ideal as daily makeup coverage, with thin makeup particles that do not clog pores.”