SPF Level
According to Dr. Greenfield, SPF should be 30+ (minimum) for the face, and mineral sunscreens provide broad-spectrum protection.
Key Ingredients
Protection doesn’t mean you have to compromise on hydration. “Look for moisturizing ingredients such as ceramides, squalene, and hyaluronic acid to enhance skin hydration and avoid leaving the skin chalky with a white cast,” says Obioha-Lolagne.
If breakouts are your main concern, King notes that two factors can cause sunscreen-related breakouts: occlusion of the pores by comedogenic materials or a sensitivity reaction to chemical UV-blocking ingredients. Breakouts can result from any ingredient in the product, not just the active sunscreen components. Other emollients, fragrances, preservatives, or additional ingredients can also cause breakouts. Look for “non-comedogenic” on the label. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are both non-comedogenic.
King also warns to be wary of expiration dates. If the sunscreen has expired or the ingredients have been exposed to direct sunlight and high temperatures, the heat and sun can break down the chemicals, rendering them ineffective and potentially irritating to the skin
Texture
Greenfield advises that the texture should be light and breathable to avoid clogging pores or causing breakouts, yet thick enough to stay on the skin and not rub off easily. Lotions, creams, and gels are preferred over sprays, which can result in skipped areas.
Should I wear sunscreen if I have sensitive skin?
Absolutely! Dr. Greenfield emphasizes, “It’s perfectly fine to have a little sun exposure on your body, but UV radiation will only cause accelerated aging, discoloration, and texture changes on your face. I recommend facial sunscreen every single day, rain or shine.”
Is SPF 50 too much for sensitive skin?
According to Shambam, the amount of SPF is not the primary factor for sensitive skin; rather, it’s the type of chemicals, actives, or ingredients that often cause reactivity. Products with higher percentages of chemical actives can be more aggressive and lead to irritation. Shambam explains that while using a sunscreen with SPF 50 is perfectly fine, the difference in protection between SPF 30 and SPF 50 is minimal, and even less so between SPF 30 and SPF 70 or higher. A quality broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 blocks 95-97% of UV rays. She adds, “For the most sensitive or reactive skin types, it’s important to read the labels, be aware of key ingredients, and look for products specifically labeled for sensitive skin.”
What sunscreen should you use if you’re allergic to the sun?
“Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide-based sunscreens are usually the best and most effective options to prevent allergic reactions when in the sun,” Shambam says. However, she does advise patients who are allergic to the sun to do their best to avoid exposure when possible. When that’s not feasible, UPF clothing, hats, and umbrellas are always recommended.
