Applying sunscreen is a necessity to all skincare routines. One aspect to note is that it protects the skin against the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays, and it also helps in delaying aging and preventing sunburn and even skin cancer. With the numerous sunscreens on the market, choosing the right sunscreen for your skin ray protection can be quite a hard task. In this article, the reviews of sunscreen lotion and its type along with SPF comparisons shall be discussed in detail for the best options.
SPF: What Is It and Why Is It Important?
Before starting the sunscreen reviews let’s have a look at what SPF is and its purpose. SPF is how sunscreen products protect from UVB rays (which are the rays responsible for burning your skin) which tends to be the focus of most consumers. The number indicates how long will one have to be exposed to the sun and using that product for any skin type will only achieve such equivalent to no sunscreen on the skin.
- When you wear SPF 30 sunblock, around 97 percent of UVB rays are blocked.
- Wearing sunblock 50 means that around 98% of the UVB rays will be blocked.
- Applying SPF 100 on the skin means blocking 99% of the UV rays that cause tanning and sunburn.
It is equally essential to select a sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This type of radiation is more associated with skin cancer and premature skin aging, as UV A rays are absorbed deep into the skin.
Our Skin Type and the Most Effective sunscreen
Sunscreen is not a universal product for everybody. Depending on your skin type: dry, oily, sensitive, or mixed – some sunscreen will just be perfect for some skin types whilst others not. So, we narrowed the search and looked for SPF products based on skin type.
- Oily and Acne-Prone Skin
For oily/acne-prone skin you will have to reach for oil-free, water-based, and non-comedogenic sunscreen. Somewhere sub-glacial would need to be a matte finish as well to be able to keep the shine at bay.
Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
SPF Considerations: While the numbers don’t magically change the efficiency of sunscreen, in the case of acne-prone people, this sunscreen works on day-to-day wear with a maximum SPF of 46. Niacinamide, an ingredient that helps reduce redness, is also present making this product pleasing for those with inflamed skin types.
Sun Protection: Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB Coverage.
Pros:
- No greasy feel on the application due to the light formulation.
- Good for sensitive skin as it does not clog pores.
- This product contains niacinamide that takes care of acne as well as flushing.
Cons:
- A bit expensive than the average sunscreen in a pool.
- Dry Skin
For dry skin, it’s necessary to look for sunscreens with an SPF Content of more than 50 since they often include nourishing agents like Uvinul A Plus. A cream/lotion-based formula would also add a certain amount of moisture to the skin and hence, there wouldn’t be a feeling of taut or spacey skin post-application.
Best Sunscreen for Dry Skin: CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
SPF Comparisons: SPF 30 provides adequate protection for daily activities and thanks to CeraVe’s formulation enriched with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, skin remains hydrated and protected throughout the day.
Sun Protection: Broad spectrum mineral sunblock with physical protection against the sun.
Pros:
- The hydration formula is awesome for dry and sensitive skin.
- Non greasy and absorbs well without a sticky feeling on the skin.
- Fragrance-free and good for sensitive skin.
Cons:
- There is a possibility of getting a white mask, particularly for people with dark skin tones.
- Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin can be affected by irritation, therefore when purchasing sunscreen, try to find the ones that have no synthetic fragrances or are hypoallergenic, and contain no harsh chemicals. Mineral sunblocks containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often less irritating than traditional chemical-based sunscreens.
Best Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin: Neutrogena SheerZinc Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
SPF Comparisons: SPF 50 offers full protection and the mineral formulation is appropriate for all skins including the softest.
Sun Protection: Broad spectrum sunscreen with zinc oxide as the main active ingredient.
Pros:
- Effective water as well as fragrance-free formula makes it safe for use even in the most sensitive of skin.
- Up to 80 minutes of water resistance.
Cons:
- Can be too creamy and may leave a whitish film on the skin.
- Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30+
- SPF 30 is capable of providing sufficient protection for most sensitive and mineral-based sunscreen does not irritate the skin and is devoid of chemicals.
- Combination Skin
For combination skin, there’s a sunscreen that works in such a way that it doesn’t hydrate an oily area but when used, it hydrates dry areas. Best oil-free, lightweight, hydrating sunscreen that also helps in sebum production.
Best Sunscreen for Combination Skin: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
SPF Comparisons: SPF 40 is optimal for sun protection to its wearer in a way that no heaviness in its application is experienced and it’s ideal to combination skin users.
Sun Protection: Broad spectrum protection due to the innovative gel-like texture.
Pros:
- Highly lightweight so that even under makeup it remains immaculate.
- Poreless wear due to oil-free and breathable content.
- Won’t turn into a white film on the skin color particularly meant for women.
Cons:
- The cost is a little high cream than comparison-wise to other store creams.
Conclusion: Finding the Best Sunscreen for Your Skin
Several factors have to be taken into consideration in selecting the best SPF according to your skin, such as sun exposure, skin type, and personal preference. With all the oily, dry, sensitive, or reticent skin, there are indeed great options for these where protection and skincare.
