How to select a Sunscreen

How to select a Sunscreen ⬇️

Summer is around the corner, so today we’re discussing how to choose the right sunscreen for you. And while you should use sunscreen every day of the year, it’s even more important during summertime – when the days are longer, the sun is stronger, and it’s easier to spend more time outdoors ☀️

Choose a sunscreen with “broad spectrum” protection. Sunscreens with this label protect against both UVA and UVB rays. All sunscreen products protect against UVB rays, which are the main cause of sunburn and skin cancers. But UVA rays also contribute to skin cancer and premature aging.

Only products that pass a certain test can be labeled “broad spectrum.” Products that aren’t broad spectrum must carry a warning that they only protect against sunburn, not skin cancer or skin aging. We prefer mineral/physical sunscreens that contain high levels Zinc or Titanium particularly in those with sensitive skin, rosacea, eczema or those with pigmentary problems.

Make sure your sunscreen has a sun protection factor (SPF) 30 or higher. The SPF number is the level of protection the sunscreen provides against UVB rays. Higher SPF numbers do mean more protection, but the higher you go, the smaller the difference becomes. SPF 15 sunscreens filter out about 93% of UVB rays, while SPF 30 sunscreens filter out about 97%, SPF 50 sunscreens about 98%, and SPF 100 about 99%. No sunscreen protects you completely.

“Water resistant” does not mean “waterproof.” No sunscreens are waterproof or “sweatproof,” and manufacturers are not allowed to claim that they are. For best results, reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours and even more often if you are swimming or sweating. Sunscreen usually rubs off when you towel yourself dry, so you will need to put more on.

We recommend the following SPF’s:
Elta MD® UV Sheer Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
Elta MD® UV Clear SPF 46
Elta MD® UV Clear SPF 46 (Tinted)
Elta MD® UVGlow Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 36
Elta MD® UV Sport SPF 50
Elta MD® UV Pure SPF 47