It is common knowledge that sunscreen is the most important skincare product out there – and one that we all need to be using. By applying a healthy layer of sunscreen daily, we are already taking a huge step in the right direction. If you are looking to level-up your sunscreen game, taking your skin type into account when shopping can make all of the difference. At the end of the day, we all just want to look and feel good with our UV protection on.

At the same time, it can get overwhelming to figure out what ingredients to keep in mind when looking for your new sunscreen. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back – let’s get started!

First Things First

It’s important to remind ourselves of a few general sunscreen rules. Regardless of skin type, these are definitely things to look out for when sunscreen shopping.

Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 

Research shows that SPF30 blocks 97% of UV rays – 4% more than SPF15 and only about 1% less than SPF50. It’s the ideal number! Make sure that you don’t settle for less.

“Broad-Spectrum” label 

You may have seen this label on sunscreens, but maybe you don’t know exactly what it means. A “broad-spectrum” sunscreen will protect the skin against both UVA and UVB rays (known for causing premature aging and sunburns, respectively). UV rays, as a whole, are also responsible for the majority of skin cancer cases. We want all the protection we can get! Make sure to add this label to your checklist. 

“Water-resistant” label

This one is pretty self-explanatory. Whether you are sweating while out and about during the summer or taking dips in the pool, it’s always good to ensure that your sunscreen isn’t going to give out on you. Stay prepared for any circumstance with water-resistant sunscreen. 

Different Skin Types and What to Look For: A Guide

Dry Skin

Beyond the obvious sun protection that sunscreen provides, dry skin calls for a product that will also help add and retain moisture in the skin. Keep an eye out for sunscreens that contain ingredients such as ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid. 

Not only will you get the UV protection you need, but you will also dodge those annoying, flaky dry patches on your face! 

Oily or Acne-Prone Skin

If you don’t know what to look for, applying sunscreen to oily skin can be, more often than not, a frustrating process. Most products can leave your skin feeling extra greasy, as if you don’t deal with enough of that already! Try looking for water-based, quick-absorbing sunscreens with matte finishes. 

In terms of ingredients, niacinamide is a good one for you, especially if you deal with acne as a consequence of your skin type. It will tone down the redness and give you a soothing effect. In order to ensure that the sunscreen won’t block your pores and result in more inflammation, search for ones that are labeled “non-comedogenic.” 

Combination Skin 

While you’ll still want to keep your skin hydrated, you might also want to steer away from oil-based sunscreens. Search instead for a non-greasy product that has the hydrating ingredients we mentioned under the dry skin section! 

Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, you know how stressful shopping for new skincare products can be. In the sun protection department, you want to go for mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens. 

Zinc oxide and titanium oxide are two phenomenal ingredients for you; they will not cause irritation, and will instead build a protective layer on your skin. Avoid unnecessary ingredients, such as one used for fragrances – it’s not worth risking it!

We hope this gives you some insight on where to get started next time you’re out shopping for your next sunscreen. Oh, and one more tip! If you are still intimidated by all of the ingredients and aspects to keep in mind, this one’s for you: take a peek at the products you already use and love to get a quick sense of the ingredients that are working for you. Good luck!