Essential Sunscreen Tips and Tricks

Of course sunscreen is a dermatologist's best friend and sun protection is one of our favorite topics to remind people about. But despite all of the information shared on the topic, I find I still get daily questions about what to look for in a sunscreen and “rules” for sunscreen application. So I’ve attempted to synthesize a number of key points into a single graphic here. Details in the text below.

First let’s talk about picking a sunscreen:

🔹SPF 30 (minimum) - There is data to support the idea that higher SPF can provide greater sun protection. I also recommend a higher SPF as studies show that on average people apply only a quarter to a half of the recommended amount.

🔹Broad-Spectrum - UVB can cause sunburns and UVA can prematurely age the skin. Most sunscreens these days protect against both, but be sure to check the label. 

🔹Chemical vs. Mineral (Physical) Sunscreen - Both are effective and a lot comes down to personal preference. Mineral sunscreen may be less likely to irritate the skin and is often better for those with rosacea or melasma. They are also generally recommended for use during pregnancy. Chemical sunscreens tend to leave less of a white cast on the skin and may be more resistant to water and sweat. I personally use both.

🔹What About Moisturizers with SPF, Make-up with SPF or Brush-On Sunscreen? I generally recommend a separate sunscreen. That said, a moisturizer with SPF can be effective when used in a sufficient amount and reapplied as discussed below. I also love to use a brush-on powder sunscreen for on-the-go reapplication on top of my liquid sunscreen. Makeup with SPF is less likely to provide adequate coverage and I recommend using a liquid sunscreen underneath your makeup.

𝑰 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒔𝒂𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒔𝒖𝒏𝒔𝒄𝒓𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒖𝒔𝒆!

 Next up is sunscreen application:

 🔹It’s suggested to apply 15 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2 hours when in the sun (or after swimming / sweating)

 🔹BE SURE TO APPLY A SUFFICIENT AMOUNT - For your face this should be equivalent to about ¼ to ½ teaspoon or two finger lengths. For face and body the guideline is to use approximately 1 oz, the equivalent of a shot glass. 

 🔹Don’t forget ears, lips, neck and back of the hands!

In addition to sunscreen, it is important to remember overall sun protection strategies including avoiding direct sun exposure as much as possible and wearing sun protective clothing, hats and sunglasses.