Sun Protection Tips & Top Sunscreen Picks

May is skin cancer awareness month and as we move into the summer months, I thought I’d share some tips to help protect your skin in the sun. I’ve also provided some recommendations on my favorite sunscreens below.

o Whenever possible, avoid direct exposure to the sun between 10 am and 3 pm, when UVB is most intense.

o If avoiding the sun is not possible, cover up with clothing as much as possible and wear a broad brimmed hat to protect your face. 

o Always use a high SPF (30+) broad spectrum sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection factor.

o The higher the SPF the better.  While there seems to be a persistent myth that once you get over a certain SPF it doesn’t matter, in fact, studies have shown that higher SPF sunscreens do provide more protection.

o Most people under apply sunscreen by half. So apply liberally and remember to reapply!

o Spread sunscreen, don't rub it in. Best protection is achieved from a uniform layer on the surface of the skin.

o Contrary to some common myths, chemical sunscreens and physical sunscreens are both effective forms of protection. What is most important is to find a sunscreen formulation that you like and will actually use!

o Think about sun protection and sun damage at a cumulative level. Protecting from a sunburn today is important, but long-term protection from skin cancers and photoaging is critical (and can save your life!)

o Using sunscreen on a daily basis can significantly reduce your risk of various forms of skin cancer including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

Some of my recommended sunscreens

I'll wrap this up by providing a list of sunscreens that I personally like. Each person is different and my recommendations will vary depending on your skin type ie. oily, sensitive etc.  but this is a great set of products to choose from. To purchase any of these you can visit Shop My Shelf.

o   La Roche Posay Anthelios Ultra Fluid Mineral Body Lotion SPF 50

Love this for all over protection and it does not feel heavy.

o   SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50

One of my favorites for the face. It’s purely mineral, light weight and has a nice tint to it.

o   Colorescience Sunforgettable Brush-on Sunscreen Powder SPF 50

Easy to apply (dust powder on) and for those that wear makeup you don’t have to worry about reapplying a sunscreen over top of your foundation. You can learn more about Colorescience here.  

o   Vichy Ideal Soleil Stick SPF 60

Love this for my kids’ faces! The stick is to apply and I’m less likely to get sunscreen in their eyes as they squirm.

o   SkinMedica Total Defense + Repair Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50+

This is another go to of mine. It also acts as a superscreen to protect against infrared rays.

o   EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46

A good option for patients with sensitive or acne prone skin