As a pale skinned, freckle faced red head, I know a thing or two about sunscreen! I use it religiously to help fight against skin damage. How do you know which sunscreen is best for you? It really depends on your lifestyle.
I know that some people hate putting on sunscreen for a variety of reasons. I am here to tell you that there is no excuse for not wearing sunscreen every single day.
There are so many different formulas available that you can find one that you will love and actually use.
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Not only does sunscreen help prevent skin damage like wrinkles and sun spots. But it is also vital in helping to prevent skin cancer.
No matter how much you loathe putting on sunscreen, it just isn’t worth risking the chance of getting melanoma.
I’ve put together a list of some of the most common complaints people have when using sunscreen and found a solution with finding the right sunscreen for you.
I have tried to pick products that are easily available, effective, and affordable. I don’t know about you but I can’t spend $50 on a bottle of sunscreen with the amount that I use every week!
Note: I am not a medical professional. These are just my opinions and findings from online research. If you have questions consult your doctor.
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Which Sunscreen is Best for You?
The complaint: “It takes too long to work.”
Most chemical sunscreens take about 20 minutes to start working from the time you put it on. If you want to skip the wait time, use a sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium oxide.
Since they lay on top of the skin, they are effective immediately to block those UV rays.
Recommendation: Aveeno Natural Protection Lotion Sunscreen
The complaint: “Sunscreen makes my skin breakout.”
Look for an oil-free formula. The oils in sunscreens are what cause acne prone skin to break out. If you use acne medications, be extra vigilant about wearing sunscreen as they can cause your skin to be more prone to burns.
Recommendation: Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin
The complaint: “I’m inside most of the day, I don’t need sunscreen.”
You may be inside the office working most of the day but you are still coming and going in the mornings and the evenings.
You should use a sunscreen that is broad spectrum since UVA rays are present as long as there is sunlight. Since you don’t need a sunscreen to fight the mid day sun, look for a lightweight formula.
Recommendation: CeraVe SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Lotion
Choosing the Right Sunscreen
The complaint: “It runs in my eyes during my workout.”
If you are going to be out on a very hot day or you are active and know that you are going to sweat, it is important to get a quick drying formula. It will absorb into your skin and not lay flat on top and eventually run into your eyes.
Look for a sunscreen that is water proof (up to 80 min.)
Recommendation: Banana Boat Sunscreen Sport Performance Cool Zone Broad Spectrum Lotion.
The complaint: “Makes my makeup look cakey.”
A lot of people don’t want to use sunscreen because it ruins the look of your makeup. Formulas have come a long way and they are even hydrating for your skin.
Look for a sheer, lightweight formula that goes on smooth. Choose a sunscreen that is specifically for faces.
Recommendation: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Liquid Daily Sunscreen.
The complaint: “Natural sunscreen makes me white and chalky.”
Ingredients like zinc oxide can cause the look of natural sunscreen to leave a white film on your skin. New formulas have zinc oxide to block UV rays and still blend into your skin.
You may have to do a bit more blending in than you would with a chemical sunscreen but it is worth it to fend off sun damage.
Natural facial sunscreens tend to blend in easier than the body sunscreens.
Recommendation: Goddess Garden Facial SPF 30 Natural Sunscreen
The complaint: “I have dark skin, I don’t need sunscreen.”
If you have dark skin, you do have more protection than light skin, but you are only getting about an SPF 4! You need at least an SPF 30.
Every skin color can get skin cancer, Bob Marley died from melanoma. You can use a sheer, lightweight formula so that it blends easily into your skin.
Recommendation: Coppertone Clearly Sheer SPF 30 Sunscreen
More Tips to Choose the Best Sunscreen for You
The complaint: “I hate the smell of sunscreen.”
I feel you on this one. I don’t particularly like the “sunscreen smell” either. I don’t mind it at the beach but I don’t want to smell like that everyday.
Look for a formula that is fragrance free or has a very light scent.
Recommendation: L’Oreal Paris Advance Suncare Silky Sheer Lotion
The complaint: “Sunscreen makes me hot and sticky.”
Look for a sweat-wicking formula. The chemicals that are used in some sunscreens to block the sun can also convert it’s light into heat and some people can feel that.
Some sunscreens have new “cool-dry” formulas that use the same breathable technology that are in workout clothes.
Recommendation: Neutrogena Cooldry Sport Sunscreen
The complaint: “I still want a tan.”
Self tanners have come a long way. This is coming from a very pale woman who looked orange every time I would use them. You have to try different formulas to find what works for you.
You can get color without having to tan. Let’s face it, a tan is just sun damage and you don’t want that for your skin. Stick to the self tanners, your skin will look younger for it.
Recommendation: Jergens Natural Glow
No matter which sunscreen you decide is right for you, make sure you use it every day. I know that it can be a pain to put on and reapply but it really is worth it.
Protect yourself this summer and throughout the year by finding which sunscreen is best for you.
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