According to a recent study by the Skin Cancer Foundation, daily use of SPF 15 sunscreen can reduce your risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma by about 40 percent and lower your melanoma risk by 50 percent. But, the benefits of daily SPF use extend beyond skin cancer prevention. The sun causes over 90 percent of the visible signs of aging on our skin, including brown spots, broken blood vessels, and wrinkles. Sunscreen can, therefore, be viewed as one of the most powerful tools we have in our anti-aging skincare toolbox! But, with the multitude of sunscreens now available, it can be overwhelming to decide which formulation is best for your skin type.
What to Look for in ANY Sunscreen
Regardless of your skin type, there are some universal qualities that one should look for when selecting an SPF. Choosing a formulation labeled “broad-spectrum” ensures that your skin will be protected from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are long, penetrate the skin deeply, and are the predominant cause of premature skin aging. UVB rays, while shorter, are more intense and can lead to sunburn. When skin is exposed to either of these rays, your chances of developing skin cancer increase.
Best Sunscreens for Normal Skin
The key to selecting an SPF for normal skin is finding one that won’t make your skin too dry or oily. Normal skin types can also benefit from multi-tasking formulations that incorporate moisture, mineral tints, and antioxidants. These ingredients will keep normal skin hydrated and balanced without looking too shiny.
Skin Artisan’s Favorite SPFs for Normal Skin:
Revision Intellishade®, Revision Intellishade® TruPhysical, AlumierMD Sheer Hydration Broad Spectrum SPF 40
Best Sunscreens for Dry Skin
Dry skin types can significantly benefit from sunscreens with built-in moisturizers and hydrating botanicals. Look for formulations that include hyaluronic acid to bind water to the skin and ceramides that prevent the skin’s surface from losing hydration. Like normal skin, dry skin can also reap the benefits of sunscreens with additional antioxidants and peptides woven into their ingredient lists.
Skin Artisan’s Favorite SPFs for Dry Skin:
Revision Intellishade® TruPhysical, Revision Intellishade®, Total Defense + Repair Broad Spectrum SPF 34 by SkinMedica®
Best Sunscreens for Oily Skin
Many people with oily skin avoid SPF out of fear that it will make their skin oilier or cause breakouts. Fear not! There are highly sophisticated formulations available today that can help balance oil production and keep breakouts at bay. Look for SPFs labeled “non-comedogenic,” which means they will not irritate skin or clog pores. Next, seek sunscreens that directly state they are “lightweight,” “oil-free,” and safe for “acne-prone” skin. Many formulations exist today that include mattifying ingredients to control shine throughout the day.
Skin Artisan’s Favorite SPFs for Oily Skin:
Revision Intellishade® Matte, Essential Defense Everyday Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 47 by SkinMedica®
Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin
Finding an SPF that doesn’t cause irritation or redness can be tricky when you have sensitive skin. Mineral-based or physical sunscreens are better than chemical sunscreens for sensitive skin types. Why? Physical SPFs contain natural anti-inflammatory ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that reflect the sun’s rays and prevent it from building heat on the skin’s surface like a chemical sunscreen can. Physical and mineral sunscreens are also less prone to burn or sting eyes. Many of these products now contain other ingredients that calm redness and mineral tints that help camouflage redness and flushing.
Skin Artisan’s Favorite SPFs for Sensitive Skin
Essential Defense Mineral Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 35 by SkinMedica®, Revision® Intellishade, Clear Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 42 by AlumierMD®
When all is said and done, the best sunscreen for your skin is the one you will enjoy wearing daily and looks and feels great on your skin! Developing the daily habit of wearing is the most important step, and that will be more easily accomplished when you love your sunscreen! If you need assistance selecting the perfect SPF for your skin, schedule a complimentary consultation with a Skin Artisans Advanced Practice Esthetician to discuss your options by calling (952) 234-8414.
