Latest news with #KristinaCollins
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Best sports sunscreen for every outdoor activity, tested by a personal trainer
If slathering on sunscreen evokes memories of your mom's childhood reminders to protect your skin, you're not alone. Like many children, I dreaded the ritual of rubbing or spraying on sunscreen — those precious seconds seemed to last an eternity when all I wanted to do was throw myself into the pool. But now, especially as someone who is regularly active outdoors, I understand the importance and continue to preach it: Applying sunscreen isn't a chore; it's a vital layer of protection from the sun's damaging rays. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with the American Academy of Dermatology reporting that an estimated one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. The good news? Skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, and UV exposure is the most preventable cause of skin cancer. Unprotected exposure to UV rays, particularly UVA rays, is correlated with the development of skin cancer and premature skin aging, including wrinkles and age spots. Therefore, in the quest to prevent skin cancer, sun protection in the form of sunscreen and sun-protective clothing is the key. For runners, cyclists, golfers, water-sports enthusiasts or other athletes spending considerable time outside, the right sunscreen can make a huge difference. "For active individuals, sunscreen needs to go the extra mile," says Dr. Kristina Collins, board-certified dermatologist. "Sports sunscreens help maintain continuous protection in high-performance conditions, reducing the risk of burns, sun damage and ultimately, skin cancer." The term "sports sunscreen" has no FDA definition, but sporty folks should look for a handful of extra factors in their lotions, sprays or creams. "The most important factors to look for in a sunscreen are broad-spectrum protection, an SPF of 30 or higher and water resistance (either 40 or 80 minutes)," advises Dr. Ruth McTighe, board-certified dermatologist. "Equally important is choosing a sunscreen format — whether lotion, stick, spray or gel — that you'll be able to reapply consistently when outdoors or playing sports." It's not just the sunscreen itself that matters, but how and where you apply it. Namely, sunscreen should be applied to all areas of exposed skin (including your lips and scalp) — not just your face. Also, don't forget to apply on cloudy or cooler days, as UV rays can still penetrate. Finally, applying once isn't enough. "You should consistently reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors," emphasizes McTighe. "It's also important to reapply after swimming or sweating heavily — even if the product is water-resistant." McTighe also reminds us that sunscreen is just one part of a sun safety strategy: "Don't forget to avoid peak sun hours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and wear sun-protective clothing." While this can sound scary, there are plenty of options for athletes looking to keep their skin safe. We've rounded up our favorite broad-spectrum picks that'll stand up to water, sweat and, of course, the sun. SPF: SPF, or sun protection factor, measures how well a sunscreen protects you from UV radiation, specifically UVB rays, which cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer. "A sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30 or higher is recommended, as SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UV rays. While higher SPFs offer slightly more protection, no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays, and the increase in protection levels off around SPF 30," explains McTighe. Broad spectrum protection: Broad spectrum protection ensures coverage against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. Each dermatologist we consulted recommended broad-spectrum sunscreens only. Water and sweat resistance: "Sunscreen is neither sweatproof nor waterproof, which is why the FDA prohibits these terms on product labels. However, sunscreens can be labeled as 'water-resistant' — either 40 or 80 minutes — indicating how long the product remains effective while swimming or sweating," says McTighe. Noncomedogenic: Sunscreens labeled as noncomedogenic should not cause blocked pores, which is an extra perk if you'll be getting sweaty while wearing the product. Lightweight and nongreasy: Sunscreen can get a bad rap for being either greasy or heavy! If you opt for a sunscreen that is lightweight and nongreasy, you're more likely to wear it. Portability: If you're on the go and need to reapply sunscreen in the middle of a workout, consider looking for a TSA-friendly size or a stick sunscreen that you can easily slip into your bag. Ingredients: There are two primary kinds of sunscreen that feature different active ingredients. Mineral (sometimes referred to as physical) sunscreens create a physical barrier between your skin and the sun, reflecting rays away from your skin. Mineral sunscreens often include zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as primary ingredients. On the other hand, chemical sunscreens absorb the sun's rays before they reach your skin. These sunscreens use avobenzone, oxybenzone, ecamsule and/or octocrylene as primary ingredients. Format: Sunscreens are offered in lotions, liquids, sprays, mists, sticks and balms. Dermatologists agree that the best format is the format you'll be most likely to apply (and reapply). As an avid outdoor enthusiast, longtime athlete and certified personal trainer, I've tested plenty of sports sunscreens while exercising outdoors. For this product ranking, I tested 14 dermatologist-recommended options while hiking, running, walking, playing pickleball and practicing yoga outside. I recruited a friend with a different skin tone and health history who runs, cycles and rock climbs to test the same 14 products. I also spoke with multiple board-certified dermatologists and nurse practitioners to get professional insights into sun protection, specifically for athletes. Sunscreens were evaluated based on protection, application, texture, feel and overall experience. Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Sport Stick SPF 50: This sunscreen stick is made for sweaty days in the sun with 80 minutes of water/sweat resistance. The sunscreen goes on a little thicker and can feel sticky if it's not fully blended in. Coola Clear Sunscreen Spray: This spray feels exceptionally light and offers great protection under the sun during sweaty pickleball matches. We tested the fragrance-free version, but there are scented options too. Zo Skin Health Daily Sheer Broad-Spectrum SPF 50: This daily sunscreen is incredibly lightweight, smooth and moisturizing. It's on the higher end of the price range. MDSolarSciences Quick Dry Body Spray SPF 40: This spray stays true to its name — it dries quickly. However, I didn't love the scent. Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Spray: This spray didn't give off a sticky glaze and smelled great. Unfortunately, during very intense exercise, the spray ran and appeared white. Suntegrity Mineral Sun Sport Stick: Suntegrity's stick is a nice, on-the-go option that's compliant with the Hawaii Reef Act 104. However, it feels a little slicker and gives a slight white cast. PCA Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 45: For a pricier option, I wanted this sunscreen to work a little more effectively. While the formulation is lightweight, I found that it ran during outdoor activities and caused my skin to break out. UVA and UVB rays are structurally different and impact your skin in different ways. UVA rays have a longer wavelength and are associated with skin damage and aging (like wrinkles and fine lines) and are also rays associated with tanning. UVB rays have a shorter wavelength and are associated with burning. One way to remember is that with UVA, the "A" stands for "aging," and with UVB, the "B" stands for "burning." UVA and UVB rays together contribute to underlying skin damage that can lead to cancerous mutations and skin cancers. Broad-spectrum sunscreen coverage protects against UVA and UVB rays. "Reapply every two hours, or immediately after excessive sweating, towel drying or swimming — even if the product is water-resistant. If you're outdoors for long stretches, set a timer to remind yourself," says Collins. Sunscreen isn't the only form of sun protection for athletes, though. As McTighe advises, athletes can wear sun-protective clothing and avoid the sun during peak hours, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Yes! However, dermatologists recommend looking for specific guidelines. "Choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen that is water-resistant is your best bet for UVA protection while participating in outdoor activities and sports. The water-resistant component will help with any sweating that is likely to happen with outdoor activities," says Anna Chacon, board-certified dermatologist. The terms "reef-friendly" and "reef safe" are not regulated. "That being said, when it comes to sunscreen, reef-friendly tends to refer to mineral-based SPF sunscreen. If the active ingredients are zinc and/or titanium oxide, it's likely going to minimize harm to our coral reefs," explains Catie Boucher, board-certified dermatology nurse practitioner. Meanwhile, standard chemical sunscreens that utilize ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate may contribute to coral bleaching, though McTighe cautions that more research is still needed in this area. Often, the conditions in which sunscreens are tested for environmental safety don't translate to the real-world settings, so it's not clear to what extent chemical sunscreens could affect the reefs. One 2020 review study points out that most coral bleaching is caused by other agents and that there's no clear evidence that chemical sunscreens should be avoided for this reason. It's also important to note that some products marketed as "reef-friendly" may use nano zinc and nano titanium, which are less safe for marine plants and animals. "'Reef-friendly' isn't regulated by the FDA, so always read the ingredient list," says Dr. Robyn Gmyrek, board-certified dermatologist. "Using sunscreen is most important, regardless of type, to protect your skin from the sun," says Chacon. "Spray versus lotion sunscreen is a personal preference." However, proper application is key. "While a spray sunscreen can be convenient for reapplication and easier to apply on large or hard-to-reach areas, they are often under-applied and are sprayed unevenly, leading to inconsistent coverage. In addition, there is an inhalation risk if used on the face or in enclosed areas," says Gmyrek. She also has a few extra tips if you're using a spray sunscreen: Spray close to the skin until it glistens before rubbing it in Avoid spraying directly on the face. Spray it into your hands before applying it to your face Make sure the air is still, so the wind doesn't blow the sunscreen particles away from your body Reapply every two hours (or more frequently if you're sweating heavily or swimming), just like creams Each individual's skin is different, but generally speaking, dermatologists recommend mineral sunscreens with fewer ingredients. "Choose fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and noncomedogenic products," says Gmyrek. "If you are very allergic or sensitive, patch test any new sunscreen on a small area of skin before applying on your entire body." Kristina Collins, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist Ruth McTighe, MD, board-certified dermatologist Anna Chacon, MD, board-certified dermatologist Robyn Gmyrek, MD, board-certified dermatologist Catie Boucher, board-certified dermatology nurse practitioner Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Vogue
05-05-2025
- Health
- Vogue
10 Best Sunscreen for Mature Skin Formulas, According to Dermatologists
While dermatologists recommend wearing a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 and above every day—to everyone—the best sunscreen for mature skin goes a step beyond shielding the skin from UVA and UVB rays. Leaving no trace of white cast is mere table stakes for the modern class of expert-approved sunscreens, which also nurture aging skin with everything from radiance-boosting vitamins to DNA-repair enzymes and botanicals that hydrate and plump. But above all, the best sunscreen for any type of skin will be one that's a treat to apply, which is why Vogue's top formulas offer both sensorial delight as well serious sun protection. Vogue's Favorite Sunscreen for Mature Skin: 'It's important to choose a sunscreen that feels comfortable and works seamlessly with your skin type,' notes esthetician, skincare formulator, and brand founder Emme Diane. 'If it's pleasant to wear, you'll be far more likely to apply it consistently every morning—and consistency is what ultimately protects your skin.' To help you find an SPF that applies like a dream, be it chemical, mineral, non-toxic, or tinted formula, we turned to the pros for their expert and science-back recommendations. Ahead, find the sunscreens dermatologists heartily suggest to mature patients—and wear themselves. From top brands like Supergoop!, SkinCeuticals, and Augustinus Bader, these formulas will help the skin glow from within. Sun safely! In this article: Skinceuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 $42 BLUEMERCURY Why We Love It: Skinceuticals's fluid SPF 50 has translucent color spheres that boost the skin's radiance while providing sheer coverage. Kristina Collins, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Austin, Texas, calls the formula 'tinted and elegant,' adding that 'it blends well without settling into fine lines, making it ideal for mature complexions.' With 100% physical sun filters, the formula is also enriched with artemia salina, an aquatic-plankton extract that elevates skin's resistance to sun damage and heat-induced stress. Skinceuticals's fluid SPF 50 has translucent color spheres that boost the skin's radiance while providing sheer coverage. Kristina Collins, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Austin, Texas, calls the formula 'tinted and elegant,' adding that 'it blends well without settling into fine lines, making it ideal for mature complexions.' With 100% physical sun filters, the formula is also enriched with artemia salina, an aquatic-plankton extract that elevates skin's resistance to sun damage and heat-induced stress. Chemical or Physical: Physical (zinc oxide 5%, titanium dioxide 6%) Physical (zinc oxide 5%, titanium dioxide 6%) Key Ingredients: Artemia Salina, translucent color spheres Artemia Salina, translucent color spheres SPF Level: 50 50 Texture: Fluid Fluid Size: 1.7 fl oz Augustinus Bader The Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Augustinus Bader The Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 $140 NORDSTROM Why We Love It: Augustinus Bader's TFC 8—a proprietary blend of anti-aging ingredients designed to support skin repair—is so beloved that fans of the brand wish it were in every product they use. (That's why one such fan, Victoria Beckham, infused it into her brand's coveted concealer pen, with help from Dr. Bader himself.) As such, the brand's first SPF, which melds TFC 8 with physical sun filters, was met with excitement from industry insiders and Vogue editors when it launched this spring. I, for one, couldn't wait to get my hands on the chicly packaged product, and it's since become a staple in my morning routine. It also has a permanent place on my window side desk, so I can remember to reapply it every couple of hours. With the texture of a silky lotion—not dissimilar from the brand's iconic The Rich Cream—the sunscreen wears more like luxurious skincare than a traditional mineral SPF. It's moisturizing, fast-absorbing, and can double as a makeup base. Plus, its broad-spectrum SPF 50 makes it a serious defender against UVA and UVB rays. 'When it comes to sunscreens for mature skin, formulas like Augustinus Bader The Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 are particularly exciting,' Dr. Collins says. 'Mature skin tends to be more prone to dryness, sensitivity, and visible signs of aging like fine lines and uneven tone. This sunscreen stands out because it offers high broad-spectrum protection using non-nano zinc oxide, which is less likely to irritate sensitive skin.' Augustinus Bader's TFC 8—a proprietary blend of anti-aging ingredients designed to support skin repair—is so beloved that fans of the brand wish it were in every product they use. (That's why one such fan, Victoria Beckham, infused it into her brand's coveted concealer pen, with help from Dr. Bader himself.) As such, the brand's first SPF, which melds TFC 8 with physical sun filters, was met with excitement from industry insiders and Vogue editors when it launched this spring. I, for one, couldn't wait to get my hands on the chicly packaged product, and it's since become a staple in my morning routine. It also has a permanent place on my window side desk, so I can remember to reapply it every couple of hours. With the texture of a silky lotion—not dissimilar from the brand's iconic The Rich Cream—the sunscreen wears more like luxurious skincare than a traditional mineral SPF. It's moisturizing, fast-absorbing, and can double as a makeup base. Plus, its broad-spectrum SPF 50 makes it a serious defender against UVA and UVB rays. 'When it comes to sunscreens for mature skin, formulas like Augustinus Bader The Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 are particularly exciting,' Dr. Collins says. 'Mature skin tends to be more prone to dryness, sensitivity, and visible signs of aging like fine lines and uneven tone. This sunscreen stands out because it offers high broad-spectrum protection using non-nano zinc oxide, which is less likely to irritate sensitive skin.' Chemical or Physical: Physical (zinc oxide 13.2%, titanium dioxide 9.1%) Physical (zinc oxide 13.2%, titanium dioxide 9.1%) Key Ingredients: TFC 8, microalgae extract, cotton seed extract, pomegranate flower, perilla leaf, kakadu plum complex, raspberry seed oil, burti oil TFC 8, microalgae extract, cotton seed extract, pomegranate flower, perilla leaf, kakadu plum complex, raspberry seed oil, burti oil SPF Level: 50 50 Texture: Lightweight, creamy lotion Lightweight, creamy lotion Size: 1 fl oz Alastin Skincare Hydratint Pro Mineral Sunscreen Alastin Skincare Hydratint Pro Mineral Sunscreen $82 AMAZON Why We Love It: Designed to boost skin's radiance while protecting it from sun damage, 'This tinted mineral block is packed with hydrating ingredients and antioxidants, making it a lightweight SPF that protects against UV, blue, and infrared light,' says Deanne Mraz, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Connecticut. Jeanette M. Black, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and the Hamptons, has also seen the formula persuade her clients to apply (and reapply) their SPF on the daily. 'It's water-resistant for 40 minutes, fragrance-free, and has a glowing tint that a lot of my patients really like,' she says. 'The product is lightweight and great for everyday use.' Designed to boost skin's radiance while protecting it from sun damage, 'This tinted mineral block is packed with hydrating ingredients and antioxidants, making it a lightweight SPF that protects against UV, blue, and infrared light,' says Deanne Mraz, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Connecticut. Jeanette M. Black, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and the Hamptons, has also seen the formula persuade her clients to apply (and reapply) their SPF on the daily. 'It's water-resistant for 40 minutes, fragrance-free, and has a glowing tint that a lot of my patients really like,' she says. 'The product is lightweight and great for everyday use.' Chemical or Physical: Physical (zinc oxide 3.4%) Physical (zinc oxide 3.4%) Key Ingredients: Phytoene, phytofluene, ectoin Phytoene, phytofluene, ectoin SPF Level: 36 36 Texture: Lightweight, cushiony lotion Lightweight, cushiony lotion Size: 3.2 oz ISDIN Photo Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 Isdin Photo Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 $46 DERMSTORE Why We Love It: 'Lightweight and fast-absorbing, this mineral sunscreen is packed with DNA repair enzymes that support skin health in aging skin,' Dr. Collins says. With the inclusion of patented DNA Repairsomes, the sunscreen can help repair existing sun damage while guarding against future oxidative stress with antioxidants such as vitamin E and vitamin C. The 100 percent mineral sunscreen uses zinc oxide to shield the skin from UV rays, and its SPF level is 50, which more than meets dermatologists' recommendations to wear an SPF 30 or above every day. Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Birmingham, Alabama, is also a fan. 'This is a lightweight emulsion that delivers moisture and mineral zinc oxide for a chemical-free, physical sunscreen that eliminates the possibility of allergy,' he says. 'The formula absorbs easily and quickly into the skin, without a white cast—which can be a challenge with mineral sunscreens, especially on darker skin tones.' 'Lightweight and fast-absorbing, this mineral sunscreen is packed with DNA repair enzymes that support skin health in aging skin,' Dr. Collins says. With the inclusion of patented DNA Repairsomes, the sunscreen can help repair existing sun damage while guarding against future oxidative stress with antioxidants such as vitamin E and vitamin C. The 100 percent mineral sunscreen uses zinc oxide to shield the skin from UV rays, and its SPF level is 50, which more than meets dermatologists' recommendations to wear an SPF 30 or above every day. Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Birmingham, Alabama, is also a fan. 'This is a lightweight emulsion that delivers moisture and mineral zinc oxide for a chemical-free, physical sunscreen that eliminates the possibility of allergy,' he says. 'The formula absorbs easily and quickly into the skin, without a white cast—which can be a challenge with mineral sunscreens, especially on darker skin tones.' Chemical or Physical: Physical (zinc oxide 11%) Physical (zinc oxide 11%) Key Ingredients: DNA Repairsomes, vitamin E, vitamin C DNA Repairsomes, vitamin E, vitamin C SPF Level: 50 50 Texture: Milky fluid Milky fluid Size: 1.7 fl oz Supergoop! Daily Dose Bioretinol + Mineral SPF Why We Love It: Packed with ceramides, fatty acids, and prebiotics, Supergoop!'s lightweight oil was designed to lock in moisture while supporting the skin barrier. Thanks to an infusion of bakuchiol—a gentler, plant-based alternative to retinol—the fast-absorbing salve smooths fine lines and wrinkles while harnessing zinc oxide to shield the skin from UVA and UVB rays. And if you're craving a streamlined morning routine, this should be added to your bathroom cabinet, stat. 'This is a two-in-one product that's perfect for someone looking to combine anti-aging with sun protection in a single step,' Dr. Collins notes. Packed with ceramides, fatty acids, and prebiotics, Supergoop!'s lightweight oil was designed to lock in moisture while supporting the skin barrier. Thanks to an infusion of bakuchiol—a gentler, plant-based alternative to retinol—the fast-absorbing salve smooths fine lines and wrinkles while harnessing zinc oxide to shield the skin from UVA and UVB rays. And if you're craving a streamlined morning routine, this should be added to your bathroom cabinet, stat. 'This is a two-in-one product that's perfect for someone looking to combine anti-aging with sun protection in a single step,' Dr. Collins notes. Chemical or Physical: Physical (zinc oxide 16.5%) Physical (zinc oxide 16.5%) Key Ingredients: English oak bark extract, olive esters, glycerin, L-carnosine, 1% bakuchiol English oak bark extract, olive esters, glycerin, L-carnosine, 1% bakuchiol SPF Level: 40 40 Texture: Lightweight oil Lightweight oil Size: 1 fl oz Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen 50 Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen 50 $17 $11 AMAZON Why We Love It: Neutrogena's SPF 50, non-comedogenic formula has impressed Tia Paul, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Newport Beach, California—and she says that its price point is just an added bonus. 'This is an excellent budget-friendly option which is also incredibly lightweight and hydrating,' she says. 'Mature skin loves the hyaluronic acid boost in this formulation!' What's more, the sunscreen is water-resistant for 80 minutes. And for those hesitant to try a chemical sunscreen, Diane offers her perspective. Since physical sunscreens can be wiped away by sweat and friction from clothing, 'a chemical sunscreen, formulated with ingredients like oxybenzone or avobenzone, can provide longer-lasting protection,' she says. 'What's worse: an unexpected sunburn when you don't get adequate or long-lasting coverage, or avoiding chemical sunscreens, no matter the cost?' Neutrogena's SPF 50, non-comedogenic formula has impressed Tia Paul, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Newport Beach, California—and she says that its price point is just an added bonus. 'This is an excellent budget-friendly option which is also incredibly lightweight and hydrating,' she says. 'Mature skin loves the hyaluronic acid boost in this formulation!' What's more, the sunscreen is water-resistant for 80 minutes. And for those hesitant to try a chemical sunscreen, Diane offers her perspective. Since physical sunscreens can be wiped away by sweat and friction from clothing, 'a chemical sunscreen, formulated with ingredients like oxybenzone or avobenzone, can provide longer-lasting protection,' she says. 'What's worse: an unexpected sunburn when you don't get adequate or long-lasting coverage, or avoiding chemical sunscreens, no matter the cost?' Chemical or Physical: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 15%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 10%) Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 15%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 10%) Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin Hyaluronic acid, glycerin SPF Level: 50 50 Texture: Gel lotion Gel lotion Size: 3.0 fl oz Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Why We Love It: 'This is a great option for someone with mature or dry skin who also wants a non-toxic formula with zinc oxide,' says Dr. Paul. 'The squalane makes it ultra hydrating and smooth.' The formula also contains ectoin, a molecule that binds moisture to the skin for a plumpier, bouncier complexion and less trans-epidermal water loss. Butterfly ginger extract, another key ingredient, is an additional moisturizing molecule that keeps dehydration at bay. Reef-safe and fragrance-free, the sunscreen has a hidden superpower as a makeup primer: It can help foundation and other products grip the skin and prolong their wear. 'This is a great option for someone with mature or dry skin who also wants a non-toxic formula with zinc oxide,' says Dr. Paul. 'The squalane makes it ultra hydrating and smooth.' The formula also contains ectoin, a molecule that binds moisture to the skin for a plumpier, bouncier complexion and less trans-epidermal water loss. Butterfly ginger extract, another key ingredient, is an additional moisturizing molecule that keeps dehydration at bay. Reef-safe and fragrance-free, the sunscreen has a hidden superpower as a makeup primer: It can help foundation and other products grip the skin and prolong their wear. Chemical or Physical: Physical (zinc oxide 17.68%) Physical (zinc oxide 17.68%) Key Ingredients: Ectoin, plant-derived squalane, butterfly ginger extract Ectoin, plant-derived squalane, butterfly ginger extract SPF Level: 30 30 Texture: Lightweight lotion Lightweight lotion Size: 1.7 fl oz Rationale #3 The Tinted Serum Broad Spectrum SPF50+ Rationale 3 The Tinted Serum Broad Spectrum SPF50+ $124 NEIMAN MARCUS Why We Love It: 'This is a product I use every day,' says Ellen Gendler, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. 'It's a 24% zinc oxide solution and the most beautiful tinted SPF formulation I've ever seen.' With the texture of a silky serum, the SPF 50 sunscreen tends to mature skin with high-tech ingredients. It's infused with 'zinc fusion technology,' a proprietary system that calms redness and supports the skin barrier while offering solar protection. Additionally, it's made with 3D Shield Technology, which uses ceramic microspheres to protect the skin from environmental aggressors. 'This is a product I use every day,' says Ellen Gendler, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. 'It's a 24% zinc oxide solution and the most beautiful tinted SPF formulation I've ever seen.' With the texture of a silky serum, the SPF 50 sunscreen tends to mature skin with high-tech ingredients. It's infused with 'zinc fusion technology,' a proprietary system that calms redness and supports the skin barrier while offering solar protection. Additionally, it's made with 3D Shield Technology, which uses ceramic microspheres to protect the skin from environmental aggressors. Chemical or Physical: Physical (zinc oxide 24%) Physical (zinc oxide 24%) Key Ingredients: Zinc Fusion Technology, melanin, iron oxides, 3D shield technology Zinc Fusion Technology, melanin, iron oxides, 3D shield technology SPF Level: 50 50 Texture: Serum Serum Size: 1.0 fl oz MDSolarSciences Mineral Tinted Crème Why We Love It: Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, MDSolarSciences's velvety formula sinks into the skin with a matte finish. Enhanced with pomegranate and cranberry extracts for antioxidant protection, the tinted SPF is a go-to for Dr. Mraz. 'This is one of my favorites for combining UV protection with tinted coverage that doubles as makeup to blur imperfections,' she says. 'The formulation also includes skincare superheroes and antioxidants like vitamin C and green tea.' Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, MDSolarSciences's velvety formula sinks into the skin with a matte finish. Enhanced with pomegranate and cranberry extracts for antioxidant protection, the tinted SPF is a go-to for Dr. Mraz. 'This is one of my favorites for combining UV protection with tinted coverage that doubles as makeup to blur imperfections,' she says. 'The formulation also includes skincare superheroes and antioxidants like vitamin C and green tea.' Chemical or Physical: Physical (titanium dioxide 2%, zinc oxide 17%) Physical (titanium dioxide 2%, zinc oxide 17%) Key Ingredients: Pomegranate and cranberry extracts, green tea, vitamin C Pomegranate and cranberry extracts, green tea, vitamin C SPF Level: 30 30 Texture: Velvety lotion Velvety lotion Size: 1.7 fl oz SkinBetter SunBetterTone Smart SPF 75 Sunscreen Lotion Skinbetter SunBetterTone Smart SPF 75 Sunscreen Lotion $75 SKINBETTER Why We Love It: 'This has a creamy, tone-adapting color that looks great on skin of any age,' says Dr. Black. 'Many of my patients find that this product has replaced the need to wear primers and foundations.' It also wears well at the gym, tennis court, or pool. Because the formula is water and sweat-resistant for 80 minutes, Dr. Black frequently recommends it to her more active patients. Beyond UV protection, the SPF 75 formula also shields the skin from pollution, blue light, and infrared radiation. 'This has a creamy, tone-adapting color that looks great on skin of any age,' says Dr. Black. 'Many of my patients find that this product has replaced the need to wear primers and foundations.' It also wears well at the gym, tennis court, or pool. Because the formula is water and sweat-resistant for 80 minutes, Dr. Black frequently recommends it to her more active patients. Beyond UV protection, the SPF 75 formula also shields the skin from pollution, blue light, and infrared radiation. Chemical or Physical: Physical (titanium dioxide 3.5%, zinc oxide 10.0%) Physical (titanium dioxide 3.5%, zinc oxide 10.0%) Key Ingredients: Bisabolol, niacinamide, olive leaf extract, plankton extract, ginger root extract Bisabolol, niacinamide, olive leaf extract, plankton extract, ginger root extract SPF Level: 75 75 Texture: Lotion Lotion Size: 1.7 fl oz Everything You Need to Know What's the best sunscreen for aging skin? AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron Because mature skin is more prone to dryness and sensitivity, Dr. Collins recommends seeking out a formula that not only provides broad-spectrum sun protection but nourishes the skin with hydrating and reparative ingredients. The sunscreens on this list, from dermatologist-approved brands such as Augustinus Bader, Alastin, and SkinCeuticals, check every box. What to Look for in a Sunscreen for Mature Skin AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron 'Skin can lose its ability to maintain moisture as we age, and mature skin often needs more hydrating skin-care products,' says Dr. Black. 'This means that sunscreen itself should be more hydrating or be easily layered on top of a moisturizing cream.' (For instance, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen 50 contains hyaluronic acid and glycerin.) Dr. Black adds that any sunscreen should have an SPF 30 or higher and offer broad-spectrum protection. Diane gives extra points to sunscreens such as Supergoop! Daily Dose Bioretinol + Mineral SPF and Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen that feature a PA+ to PA+++ on the label. 'PA+++ is a grading system that focuses on UVA testing,' she says. 'If you notice PA+ on your label, the product offers some protection against UVA rays, which are the 'aging' rays that cause damage and cancer. As the symbols increase, so does the level of UVA protection. So in this instance, the higher ratings such as PA+++, is better in terms of sun protection,' she says. Finally, a formula that's fragrance-free is always a plus for mature skin. 'In general, I recommend patients to avoid sunscreens and other products with fragrances or other unnecessary ingredients that could potentially cause irritation,' Dr. Black says. And for patients of any age who are more active and might be exercising or swimming, she always recommends a water-resistant sunscreen.
