Shopping for the best sunscreen can be a challenge.
So many new choices! Summer's almost here, so it's a great time to stock up. Even with all the new forms on the market; natural, whipped, tinted, the basics to protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays haven't changed.
Apply liberally and often!
There are literally hundreds to choose from
New innovations include naturally sourced 100 percent zinc oxide, tinted, whippped, something for kids, something for babies, or something that's compatible with sensitive skin conditions. Even with all the new forms and choices...the basics haven't changed. Apply liberally and apply often!
Lotions tend to provide better protection than sprays or wipes. The application goes on more generously and evenly. Generally, a liberal application is 1 ounce (30 milliliters) to cover exposed parts of the body. You might need to apply more, depending on your body size. If you have a 4-ounce (118-milliliter) bottle, you'll use about one-fourth of it during one application. Reapply every two hours.
UVA and UVB
Be sure to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays prematurely age skin and UVB rays burn; both can cause skin damage, eye damage, and skin cancers. . How much SPF? Dematologists say to choose one with an SPF of at least 30 that's also water resistant, even if you don't plan on getting wet, you will sweat. If you're doing an activity, like sports or yoga, choose an SPF of 50 or higher.
The Skin Cancer Foundation grants its Seal of Recommendation to products that meet the Foundation’s criteria for safe and effective UV sun protection. Brands that are currently in the Seal of Recommendation Program can be found here:
Shelf Life
Sunscreen does expire, but most big name brand sunscreen has been formulated to stay stable for three years, so the the Food and Drug Administration doesn't require an expiration date on the packaging. But we think if you're using it properly, liberally, you're sunscreen is unlikely to last three years, right?