Latest news with #sunprotection
CNET
4 days ago
- General
- CNET
10 Sunscreen Myths That Could Hurt Your Skin This Summer
As the temperatures continue to rise, the more we'll all be outside. An essential part of spending time outside safely is applying sunscreen to protect your skin. It's easy enough. But there are a lot of misconceptions floating around about sunscreen -- what type you need, how much you need to apply and when you should wear it. In this case, believing everything you hear can spell bad news for your skin. To protect skin from damaging sun rays that can lead to sun poisoning, blisters and cancer, sunscreen is your best line of defense. Whether you're on the beach for hours or simply plan to extend your daily walk, it's essential to get sun care right. Let's separate fact from fiction and debunk some common sunscreen myths. Your skin will thank you. The top 10 myths about sunscreen 1. All sunscreen is the same Yes, the goal of all sunscreen is to protect your skin from sun damage. But each product works differently, depending on its ingredients and level of sun protection. There are generally two broad categories of sunscreen -- chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreens contain avobenzone and oxybenzone, which absorbs the sun's rays and converts them to heat. Physical sunscreens, also known as mineral sunscreens, have ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium oxide, which reflect the rays. The ingredients in sunscreen determine how they protect your skin from the sun. 2. Higher SPFs are better You would think the higher the number, the more protection you get. But that's not always the case. SPF 50 blocks roughly 98% of UV rays. SPF 100 only blocks 99%, a marginal difference. I'm not saying you shouldn't get SPF 100, just remember that no sunscreen can give you complete protection against the sun. The higher SPFs tend to give people a false sense of security against the sun, leading to skin damage. What does the number on your bottle of sunscreen mean? SPF stands for sun protection factor and measures how long a sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB rays. This metric is based on how long it takes your skin to burn in the sun without protection. Say it takes 30 minutes. If you applied SPF 30, it would take 30 times longer -- 300 minutes total. I caution that these numbers are determined in a lab, with perfect application that doesn't account for things like sweat, skin oils or accidentally rubbing off the product. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum, SPF 30 or higher, with reapplication every two hours. 3. Makeup with sunscreen is all you need to protect your face Using moisturizer or makeup with SPF included is a great way to add more sun protection. But it's not enough to provide adequate protection from the sun. When testing, skin care companies test with thick layers of the product to determine the SPF. In practice, you're probably not getting all the SPF on the bottle if you only apply a thin layer of the product. There's too much variation in how people apply makeup to say it's enough. Makeup with SPF is a nice addition, not a replacement for sunscreen. If you're wondering how the heck you're going to apply sunscreen after you've done your makeup, you can either blot your sunscreen on top of your makeup with a beauty sponge or buy a powder sunscreen like the . Read more: Best Facial Sunscreen 4. Waterproof sunscreen doesn't need to be reapplied Tell me if this sounds familiar from childhood: Your mom would lather you in sunscreen at the pool and make you sit there while it dried before jumping in the water. It was the longest wait of your life. It turns out your mom was right. Here's the thing about waterproof sunscreen -- it's not really waterproof. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, there is no such thing as waterproof sunscreen. Sweat and water will always wash sunscreen from the skin. That's why it's important to wait 10 to 15 minutes before getting in the water after applying sunscreen. You should reapply it every two hours, even if you haven't gotten in water. Westend61/Getty Images 5. Darker skin doesn't need sunscreen Melanin does offer some natural protection from the sun by diffusing UV rays. However, people with darker skin can still develop wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, sunburns and skin cancer. A study published in the Journal of American Academy of Dermatology found that people with darker skin tend to have lower survival rates for skin cancer, reinforcing the need for every person to wear sunscreen. It's important to note that people with darker skin tend to have lower survival rates because they are often underdiagnosed, not merely because of the color of their skin. 6. You only need to wear sunscreen when it's sunny Some people assume that no sunscreen is necessary because the sun is behind the clouds. But let me ask you, what is a cloud? If you guessed water vapor suspended in the air, then you are correct. While clouds can reduce the sun rays getting to your skin, they are not substantial enough to block them completely. More than 90% of UV rays pass through clouds. Even if it's cloudy, it's best to put on sunscreen. 7. You'll get a vitamin deficiency if you wear sunscreen Vitamin D is the essential vitamin made when the protein in our skin reacts to UVB rays from the sun. Essentially, we need sunlight to make the necessary amount of vitamin D that allows our body to absorb calcium and phosphorus. No sunscreen blocks 100% of sun rays, even if the packaging says 100 SPF. You'll still get approximately 2% to 3% of UVB rays, enough for your body to create vitamin D. 8. Tans are OK as long as you don't burn Safe base tans are a myth. The skin protects itself from further damage from UV rays by darkening. Having a base tan doesn't protect you from the sun and is a sign of skin damage. UV radiation is a human carcinogen. Even if you don't have a sunburn, unprotected sun exposure increases your chance of developing skin cancer. Establishing a base tan with a session at the tanning salon is still doing damage to your skin. skynesher/Getty Images 9. Sunscreen is bad for your skin The conversation around sunscreen safety mainly concerns oxybenzone and other chemical ingredients in some sunscreens. There has been an ongoing debate on the health risks of using chemicals in sunscreen. While the FDA hasn't found significant evidence that chemical sunscreens are harmful, more research is needed to conclude. A study published on JAMA Network discovered that 6 of the 13 ingredients in chemical sunscreen that the FDA is currently considering were absorbed and detectable in the bloodstream up to three weeks after one application. Additionally, some sunscreens can irritate sensitive skin or cause an allergic reaction because of the ingredients like fragrances. You can avoid this by choosing a sunscreen formulated for sensitive skin. 10. Sunscreen doesn't expire If you've ever used old sunscreen and squirted a separated mixture into your hand, you know firsthand that sunscreen expires. Over time, the ingredients break down and become less effective. That doesn't mean you have to buy sunscreen every year. According to the FDA, sunscreens are required to keep the same effectiveness for at least three years. So you can use the same tube of sunscreen for multiple years; just pay close attention to the expiration date, which is listed on the bottle. You shouldn't store your sunscreen anywhere in direct sunlight or where it can get too hot. It's not a good idea to store it in your car. Too long; didn't read? There are a lot of myths floating around about sunscreen, many of which can lead you to make the wrong decision for your skin. The bottom line is sunscreen should be an essential part of everyone's daily routine, especially if you're going to spend time outside. Reapply every two hours.
CBS News
20-05-2025
- Health
- CBS News
Just about any sunscreen does the trick, but here's how to make sure it really works
Skin is the human body's largest organ, helping to protect against germs and regulating body temperature. As important as it is to use sunscreen, experts say it's also important to know how to apply it correctly. First, put it on 15 minutes before going outside. That way it has time to soak into your skin. Then reapply every two hours, or more often if you're swimming, sweating or using a towel. Experts also say to avoid getting too much sun, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when ultraviolet rays are most powerful. Also, cover your skin with clothing when you can. Finally, be aware of the sun's reflection, especially if you're at the beach. "When you are near the water or on the sand, water and sand can actually magnify and somewhat reflect the rays of the sun, making it easier to get a sunburn," said Dr. Shane Dormady, director of medical oncology at El Camino Health. As for sunlamps and tanning beds, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says they can also be dangerous in exposing your skin to too much ultraviolet light. Which sunscreen is the best for you? According to the Environmental Working Group's 2025 sunscreen guide, the best sunscreen is the one you wear and apply often. The consumer organization released its annual list and found that nearly 500 products on the market meet its criteria for safe and effective options. The report also found that high SPF sunscreens provide only slightly more protection than lower SPF products.
Telegraph
20-05-2025
- Health
- Telegraph
The £20 French pharmacy SPF that ticks every box
If there's one item in my skincare routine I am particularly fussy about, it's sun protection. I probably wouldn't care so much if it was a product that I only needed to slather on for a sunny holiday. But sun protection should be used daily – yes, even in the UK – so the formula has to be absolute perfection. It shouldn't leave a white cast on the skin, it shouldn't cause your make-up to pill, and it shouldn't leave your skin feeling greasy or clog your pores. I know that's a lot to ask. But I'm not finished: I also don't want to spend a lot on a product that should be used daily, especially in the quantities dermatologists advise for proper sun protection (two finger-length stripes of sunscreen is about right for your whole face). Creams that cost in their hundreds may work marvellously but not everyone wants to spend that kind of money on a beauty product. This brings me on to the latest sun protection I've found that ticks all of my fussy skincare boxes. It's £20, which of course isn't cheap but it easily rivals the SPFs I've tried that are three or four times more expensive. It's the Anthelios UVAir SPF50+ by La Roche-Posay, a French pharmacy brand that I reach for time and time again because the formulas are so sophisticated – and, crucially, work well on all skin tones. Anthelios UVAir SPF50+, £20, La Roche-Posay The brand designed the UVAir extension of their popular Anthelios range to give a 'no excuses' option for anyone put off from using SPF. It fits the bill. The cream feels more like a lightweight fluid serum, and it sinks in really quickly. The finish on the skin is a little bit glowy but not at all greasy: it simply gives your skin a hydrated, healthy look. And no white cast – hurrah! (This, by the way, is mainly caused by the zinc oxide used in mineral sunscreens, which is naturally white and can give your skin an undesirable 'ghostly' quality.) The La Roche-Posay product is also excellent for anyone with redness or sensitive skin, and doesn't sting the eyes unlike other sunscreens on the market. I've already bought my second bottle of it. Super Healthy Skin Featherlight UVA/UVA SPF 50 Sunscreen + Primer, £15, Beauty Pie Another purse-friendly option, particularly if you are a subscriber to the beauty membership club, Beauty Pie, is the Super Healthy Skin Featherlight UVA/UVA SPF 50 Sunscreen + Primer. It's £15 (£25 for non-subscribers) and has a similarly lightweight, fluid texture to the La Roche-Posay sunscreen. It's designed to work seamlessly with make-up, so leaves a slight grippiness on the skin to help foundation stay in place. This is particularly useful in more humid climates. Expert Sun Protector Clear Stick SPF 50+ by Shiseido, £32, Boots It's also a good idea to keep a more portable sun protection with you on the go, for when you need to top up. I've really enjoyed using the new Expert Sun Protector Clear Stick SPF 50+ by Shiseido (another brand, this time Japanese, that creates brilliant sun protection). It's £32 and you can pick it up from Boots. The stick is easy to use and I find it doesn't disrupt any light make-up if you apply it on top. If you suffer from dry skin in the sun, this stick is made up of super-hydrating ingredients like argan oil, which feels more like skincare than suncare. As it should. It's a hit with men, too, because it's invisible and traceless on the skin. Three other suncare products I love… Heliocare 360° Pediatrics Stick SPF50+ £19.99, Look Fantastic OK, strictly this is a children's sun protection that I use on my kids as a top-up while they're playing outside, but I have no qualms in using it myself. It effectively protects the skin from the sun, leaves a transparent finish and has an addictive faint vanilla scent. The Uniform Tinted Mineral SPF 50 £34, Merit Beauty This just launched from one of my favourite minimal make-up brands, Merit. It is a fully mineral SPF that protects the skin while evening out the complexion in a variety of shades. If you don't like too many layers of skincare and make-up, consider this your one-and-done SPF and base – just make sure you use enough to get your full SPF 50 protection. Lip Screen SPF 50 by Raybalm £5.99, Amazon I learnt the hard way that you need a separate SPF for your lips after coming back from Greece last month: while my face didn't burn at all, my lips were dry and flaky for weeks after I returned. This lip balm is moisturising and protecting at the same time.
CNN
19-05-2025
- Health
- CNN
30 best face sunscreens you'll want to apply every day, according to dermatologists
Face sunscreen quick picks Mineral face sunscreen: Andalou Naturals Daily Shade and Blue Light Defense Facial Lotion SPF 30 Face sunscreen for dry skin: CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 50 Face sunscreen for acne-prone skin: EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46 Face sunscreen for mature skin: SkinMedica Essential Defense Everyday Clear SPF 47 Water-resistant face sunscreen: Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50 Tinted face sunscreen: Colorescience Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50 While the world of skin care is highly personal, there's one step that dermatologists agree everyone should be doing: applying sunscreen to your face. Practicing sun safety is about finding the product that works for you — one that you'll actually apply (and reapply) daily and works with your lifestyle, whether that be a tinted formula that can double as makeup or a sweat-resistant lotion that will keep you protected during workouts. 'No matter the forecast — cloudy, rainy or full sun — SPF is non-negotiable,' said Ian Michael Crumm, celebrity esthetician and the 2025 #GetNaked spokesperson for the Melanoma Research Foundation. Crumm's work with MRF reminds us that in addition to practicing sun safety and wearing sunscreen daily, it's also important to schedule an annual skin check with your dermatologist for early detection of skin cancer. After all, wearing sunscreen isn't just about your skin care routine, it's about your health too. Ultraviolet radiation, specifically UVB radiation, causes skin cancer, which can largely be prevented by staying out of the sun and wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen when you are exposed. That's why sunscreen is considered a drug in the US and you can use your FSA dollars to buy it — it reduces the risk of skin cancer. According to MRF, nine out of 10 cases of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, are preventable. While squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of skin cancer, are less lethal, they may still require surgery and can be disfiguring. A post shared by CNN Underscored (@cnnunderscored) Since your face is exposed to UV rays the most, finding a great face sunscreen that works with your skin and lifestyle is ultra-important. To help you find a new favorite formula, I asked dermatologists about their top picks. Here are the 30 they raved about, plus a few sunscreens I — a beauty editor who's tested over two dozen formulas — personally love too. Andalou Naturals Daily Shade and Blue Light Defense Facial Lotion SPF 30 Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York and New Jersey, loves this mineral sunscreen that is loaded with skin care ingredients and is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation. 'This mineral sunscreen contains zinc oxide and provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB coverage while also protecting against blue light and pollution,' she said. 'It also contains hyaluronic acid and bio-designed collagen to help boost moisture, helping to hydrate and plump the skin, and won't leave a white cast behind.' Supergoop! Mineral Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 Finding a mineral sunscreen that seamlessly blends into the skin can be tricky, but Crumm swears by this one that uses a mix of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. "It's a weightless mineral option that works beautifully under makeup or on its own," he said. "It's great for daily wear and doesn't leave a greasy feel." Isdin Eryfotona Actinica Daily Lightweight Mineral SPF 50+ Sunscreen Los Angeles-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Asmi Berry recommends this sunscreen fluid that repairs and protects in one step. Along with zinc oxide, it contains patented DNA Repairsomes, which help improve existing sun damage. Lightsaver Tinted Activated Mineral Sunscreen SPF 33 Dr. David Kim, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Lightsaver, said his formula is a zinc oxide-based mineral SPF that has a lightweight whipped texture. It happens to be one of my personal favorite sunscreens because of its pleasant texture and added skin benefits. "It's formulated with skin care ingredients such as photolyase to help repair UV damage, niacinamide to help brighten and squalane to hydrate," Kim said. Dr. Rossi Derm MD The Day Formula SPF 30 "Formulated with titanium dioxide and niacinamide, this SPF 30 daily sunscreen protects skin from the effects of sun damage, including the risk of skin cancer and premature aging," said Dr. Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist at MCDS Dermatology. Tizo Skin Ultra Zinc Body & Face Non-Tinted SPF 40 "This is nice when you want a sunscreen that can double as a makeup primer," Berry said. It's infused with vitamin C and E for antioxidant benefits and is safe for sensitive skin. EltaMD UV AOX Mist Mineral Sunscreen Spray SPF 40 'This mineral spray sunscreen leaves behind a sheer finish and also contains antioxidants to help protect against free radical damage,' Garshick said. 'It is lightweight and won't feel greasy while still leaving the skin feeling hydrated. It has a white-to-clear technology that makes it easy to see how much you're applying but then absorbs easily without a white cast.' CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 50 "This multitasker hydrates and protects with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, perfect for skin that needs moisture support all day," Crumm said. It's also a budget-friendly pick that you can easily pick up at the drugstore. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel Sunscreen SPF 50+ "This product has eight types of hyaluronic acid and is loved for how smoothly and seamlessly it blends into skin," Berry said of this Korean sunscreen. It has a gel consistency that adds a layer of light hydration while protecting the skin. Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense Face Sunscreen + Hydrating Serum SPF 60 Garshick recommends this affordable option that 'offers UV protection while also containing antioxidants to provide protection against environmental factors. It is lightweight and easy to apply.' The oil-free serum is suitable for those that want a hydrating primer-like formula that doesn't feel like a heavy moisturizer. Alastin Skincare HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36 Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kseniya Kobets of Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care in New York said this tinted sunscreen gives a nice glow to the skin while adding hydration. The multitasking product also comes in a bigger tube than other face sunscreens we''ve tried — 3.2 ounces! — so it'll last you a while (which helps justify the high price tag just a little bit). EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46 This is by far the most popular face sunscreen among dermatologists I've spoken to over the years, and Kobets and Berry said it's great for acne and rosacea-prone skin. It's a hybrid chemical and mineral sunscreen, featuring zinc oxide and octinoxate UV filters, that is oil-free and invisible on the skin. It also includes niacinamide to calm breakouts and lactic acid to help with skin texture. innisfree Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 45 Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ellen Marmur recommends this zinc oxide SPF in our guide to the best Korean sunscreens. It's made for sensitive and acne-prone skin and even has a hint of a green tint to combat redness. Krave Beauty Beet The Sun SPF 40 According to Crumm, this noncomedogenic sunscreen is a go-to for breakout-prone skin. "Lightweight, breathable and packed with antioxidants, this one won't clog pores or leave you greasy," he said. Dermalogica Clear Start Clearing Defense SPF 30 "To reduce shine on oily and acne-prone skin, this SPF 30 daily SPF contains natural tapioca starch, as well as willow bark extract, green tea extract and vitamin C for antioxidant protection," Camp said. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen Dry Touch SPF 60 Berry recommends this sunscreen to her patients that have acne-prone and oily skin. "This sunscreen is oil-free, noncomedogenic and it stays matte even in heat and humidity," she said. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 The chemical version of the Unseen Sunscreen Crumm recommends, this clear gel is also dermatologist-approved. It's especially good for oily skin, 'as it absorbs easily, leaving a clear, natural finish,' Garshick said. 'It not only offers protection against UVA/UVB rays but also contains red algae that may offer protection against blue light.' Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 This travel-friendly mineral sunscreen powder is great for makeup wearers, offering an easy way to nix shine throughout the day while also refreshing on SPF protection. It's a favorite of Dr. Nazanin Saedi, board-certified dermatologist and clinical associate professor at Thomas Jefferson University, who said, 'It's great for your face, hair line and, astonishingly, it's also water-resistant. After my morning sunscreen, I keep this on hand to help me reapply SPF throughout the day, especially when I'm spending the day outside.' SkinMedica Essential Defense Everyday Clear SPF 47 "A hybrid sunscreen, featuring chemical and mineral active ingredients, this SPF 47 sunscreen is paraben-free, hypoallergenic, oil-free and fragrance-free," Camp said. It's sensitive skin-friendly, so it's a good choice for those that have an anti-aging regimen full of other skin care actives, such as retinol and vitamin C. Medik8 Advanced Day Ultimate Protect SPF 50+ PA++++ I've been loving this SPF that features ectoin, a powerhouse anti-aging ingredient that dermatologists recommend for mature skin. Ectoin guards the skin from environmental stressors and helps support the skin barrier, which goes hand-in-hand with the protective qualities of SPF. It has a hydrating feel and can double as your daytime moisturizer too. Doctor Babor Protect RX Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 'This is a mineral-based sunscreen that feels light, is not at all greasy and won't leave a white sheen,' said Saedi. 'It contains moisturizing ingredients that will leave your skin feeling well hydrated.' These include soothing bisabol and antioxidant beta-carotene. Sonage Roux Tinted Day Creme With SPF 30 Another SPF and moisturizer in one, Saedi recommends this formula when we asked her about the best skin care routine for the 40+ crowd. The tint helps even out the skin tone, while the ceramides, peptides and niacinamide provide anti-aging benefits. La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Pro-Sport Sunscreen SPF 50 "This is a no-nonsense, high-performance sunscreen designed for active days," Crumm said. "It's water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, absorbs quickly and won't run into your eyes when you're breaking a sweat. It's perfect for outdoor workouts or beach days when you need reliable coverage that stays in place." Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50 Camp and Berry recommend this face and body sunscreen that's great for outdoor activities and workouts. The sweat- and water-resistant formula is noncomedogenic and doesn't feel sticky. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Kobets said this mineral sunscreen initially goes on white but then absorbs clear. It can be used on the face and body, offers up to 80 minutes of water resistance and is safe for sensitive skin. Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Lotion 'If I'm spending a day at the pool, chances are I have Sun Bum sunscreen in my bag,' Saedi said. 'This one is made for the face and is water-resistant for 80 minutes. It's fragrance-free, water-based, very lightweight and good for both sensitive and acne-prone skin types.' Colorescience Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50 Berry recommends this color-shifting tinted SPF and I'm a personal fan too. The unique formula comes out of the bottle white, but then adapts to your skin tone as you blend it in. More than just a gimmick, you get broad-spectrum protection and a medium-coverage tint that enhances the our review CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen With Sheer Tint SPF 30 Kobets said this drugstore pick 'has the perfect touch of hydration, tint and mineral SPF protection for everyday use.' The sheer color works on a wide range of skin tones and helps combat the chalky white cast. EltaMD UV AOX Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 Another EltaMD favorite among our experts, Crumm and Berry love this tinted mineral formula. It evens the complexion, adds a bit of hydration with hyaluronic acid and provides antioxidant protection with vitamins C and E, on top of the mineral UV filters. Isdin Eryfotona Ageless Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Camp is a fan of this tinted sunscreen from Isdin, which is made with a blend of peptides, antioxidants and those aforementioned DNA Repairsomes. According to the dermatologist, it has an "ultralight" feel and can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. You have a choice between SPF lotions, sprays, powders or sunscreen sticks. Within these categories, you can choose between chemical sunscreens or mineral sunscreens (more on this in the FAQs below). You may have heard about the potential health risks (to yourself and the environment) associated with chemical sunscreens, but at the end of the day, the dermatologists agreed that the best sunscreen is the one that you will use, regardless if it is mineral or chemical. To this point, Garshick said, 'Although some studies have shown that chemical sunscreens can be absorbed into the bloodstream, it does not necessarily mean the ingredients are unsafe or that the amount that is absorbed is enough to cause problems or concerns, so further research is needed. For this reason, the FDA recommends either type of sunscreen in conjunction with other sun-protective measures.' Just keep in mind that you should opt for broad-spectrum coverage of SPF 30 protection or higher. The type of formula you choose can be tailored to your skin type too. Camp said to go with a hydrating sunscreen with hyaluronic acid or ceramides if you have dry skin. Oil-free, matte or gel-based SPFs are suitable for oily or acne-prone skin, according to Crumm. 'Your sunscreen should feel like a seamless part of your routine, not a chore,' Crumm said. The following FAQs have been answered by board-certified dermatologists Dr, Asmi Berry, Dr. Brendan Camp and Dr. Marisa Garshick, as well as celebrity esthetician Ian Michael Crumm. What is the difference between chemical and physical sunscreen? What is the difference between chemical and physical sunscreen? 'Mineral sunscreens refer to sunscreens that contain ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that physically block UV rays, reflecting and scattering the UV rays from the skin surface, as opposed to chemical sunscreens that absorb the UV rays and convert them to heat,' Garshick said. Typically, mineral sunscreens are best for those with sensitive skin, as the dermatologist said that chemical sunscreen ingredients may be irritating. However, mineral sunscreens are the ones associated with leaving a white cast (although many new formulas add a touch of pigment to offset this) and 'some chemical sunscreens may be preferred, as they tend to rub in easily,' Garshick said. When do you need to wear SPF? When do you need to wear SPF? Our experts agreed that sunscreen should be worn daily year-round, not just in the summer or on sunny days. If you are spending your day outdoors, sweating or swimming, the experts said to reapply sunscreen every two hours. 'Reapplication is often the missing link in most people's routines, and it's critical for real protection,' Crumm said. As for how much sunscreen you should apply, the general guidance is that you'll need about an ounce of sunscreen (nearly a. shot glass' worth) for your whole body. For your face and neck, dermatologists advise using about a nickel-sized amount or two fingers' lengths. Which is better: zinc oxide or titanium dioxide face sunscreen? Which is better: zinc oxide or titanium dioxide face sunscreen? 'Both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide protect skin from UVB and UVA rays, but zinc oxide protects skin from a wider range of UVA rays, offering more complete UVA coverage,' Camp said. Crumm added that UVA rays are the ones that cause premature aging, while UVB rays cause sunburn. That's why broad-spectrum protection is important. In addition, some mineral sunscreens will include both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as active ingredients. What is the best face sunscreen for older skin? What is the best face sunscreen for older skin? 'Look for formulas that are hydrating and contain ingredients like niacinamide, peptides or hyaluronic acid,' Berry said. 'These help support the skin barrier while protecting from UV damage.' Crumm also said antioxidants like vitamin C or E pair well with SPF, helping improve texture, tone and fine lines over time. For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Dr. Asmi Berry, board-certified dermatologist and beauty biohacker in Los Angeles Dr. Brendan Camp, double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York Ian Michael Crumm, celebrity esthetician Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York and New Jersey Dr. David Kim, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Lightsaver Dr. Kseniya Kobets, board-certified dermatologist at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care in New York Dr. Ellen Marmur, board-certified dermatologist, dermatologic surgeon, founder of Marmur Medical and clinical professor at The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Dr. Nazanin Saedi, board-certified dermatologist and clinical associate professor at Thomas Jefferson University CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, beauty and fashion editor Sophie Shaw asked dermatologists about their tips for sun safety, what to look for in a face sunscreen and the best face sunscreens to shop.
BreakingNews.ie
18-05-2025
- Health
- BreakingNews.ie
Is expensive SPF really worth it?
When it comes to sun protection, it can be tempting to go for the luxe bottle that sits beautifully on a bathroom shelf. The promises of silky textures, chic packaging and designer branding might make high-end SPFs seem like the pinnacle of skincare – but are they actually better? Or are we just blinded by the Instagram-worthy marketing? Advertisement Dermatologists and suncare experts weigh in on what you're really getting when you invest in a premium sunscreen and what to look for if you want performance over polish. Function vs. finish It's no question that affordable SPFs are just as effective at protecting your skin from the sun as high-end ones. 'Affordable SPFs from trusted brands can offer excellent protection and meet the same safety standards as high-end options,' says consultant dermatologist Dr Sophie Momen. More expensive SPFs tend to feel better on the skin 'Pricier products may offer more luxurious textures, faster absorption or finishes that feel better on the skin, but in many cases, you're just paying for branding and marketing, rather than superior protection.' Advertisement However, the formula and level of protection is incredibly important. Premium products often boast more advanced UVA protection and skincare actives – and may avoid cheaper chemical filters linked to health concerns. 'There is also a possibility that the price can reflect the type of UV filters used in a formula to protect you,' explains Ultrasun's Abi Cleeve. Ingredients that justify the investment Not all SPFs are created equal – and some of the most worthwhile differences lie beneath the surface. According to Momen, 'An effective SPF should be broad-spectrum, offering both UVB (for burning) and UVA (for ageing) protection and it should be SPF 50, especially if you're outdoors frequently, have pigmentation issues, or are using active skincare ingredients.' Advertisement She also recommends formulas with antioxidants like vitamin E or niacinamide, water resistance and non-comedogenic features for acne-prone skin. 'High UVB protection – the SPF number – over 90 per cent UVA filters, additional skincare actives for a 'one and done' in your skincare routine and a formula that sits well on the skin [can justify the cost]' says Cleeve. 'It needs to be effective, comfortable to wear and support your overall wellbeing.' Eucerin Sun Actinic Control SPF100 Fluid Protezione Cheratosi Attinica Ultrasun Extreme SPF50+ Garnier BHA + Niacinamide Daily UV How to decode the label A €12 high-street SPF 50 and a €60 luxury equivalent might look similar, but are they really offering the same thing? Technically, yes – and no. Advertisement 'The SPF number measures UVB protection and must meet strict standards, regardless of the price,' says Momen. 'However, luxury brands may use newer or more photostable filters that provide better UVA protection, which is important for preventing pigmentation and premature ageing.' On a practical note, you should be looking for a 90 per cent UVA filter or above – this is harder to find in affordable SPFs. You should ensure your SPF label reads 'broad spectrum' 'Also consider how long the product protects you, and what the water resistance and photostability will be,' says Cleeve. 'A cheaper alternative may end up costing you more if you need to use more of it.' But don't let the beauty jargon confuse you. There are ways to keep the decoding simple. Advertisement 'Check for the SPF rating to ensure protection against UVB rays,' says Momen. 'For UVA protection […] look for a UVA symbol in a circle or a five-star UVA rating.' Cleeve recommends going even further. 'For environmental considerations look for the BASF EcoSun pass. Look for clarity on the percentage of UVA filter and look for those that state they are allergy tested.' Ultra Violette Extreme Screen Hydrating Body & Hand Skinscreen SPF 50+ The mistakes you might be making Even the best SPF can't save you if it's not used correctly. Both experts cite the same major misstep: underestimating your skin's needs. 'Using low-SPF products – like SPF 15 – is a key mistake,' warns Momen. 'Lab testing assumes a much thicker application than most people use, so lower SPFs offer significantly less protection. Always opt for SPF 30–50 – ideally 50!' Solely relying on the SPF rating as opposed to UVA and UVB protection is also a common oversight. 'Not checking the level of UVA protection alongside choosing their UVB protection [is a major mistake]' explains Cleeve. She also advises ditching the 'holiday scent,' as fragranced SPFs can cause unnecessary sensitivity during sun exposure. If you're dealing with sensitive skin, melasma, or acne, your SPF choice matters even more. 'For oily or acne-prone skin, non-comedogenic formulas are essential to avoid breakouts,' says Momen. 'People with melasma or pigmentation issues benefit from tinted sunscreens with strong UVA protection, as these help block visible light too.' Those with sensitive skin, rosacea, or eczema may benefit from higher-end, hypoallergenic options, says Cleeve, particularly those with mineral-only filters. MooGoo Tinted SPF 40 Face Cream The bottom line So, is splashing out really worth it? Well, if your budget allows for a luxurious, high-performing sunscreen that feels like a dream to wear – go for it. But if you're reaching for a £10 bottle from a trusted brand with broad-spectrum protection and SPF 50, you're still doing your skin a massive favour. The simple golden rule is to use it generously. Reapply. And whatever the price point, find a formula that fits your lifestyle.
