How to Choose the Right Sunscreen

With so many sunscreens on the shelves—lotions, sprays, sticks, mineral, chemical—it can be hard to know which one is best for you. But choosing the right sunscreen is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your skin from sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. Here's what dermatologists say to look for when comparing products.

Look for "Broad-Spectrum" on the Label

A good sunscreen should protect you from both types of ultraviolet (UV) rays:

• UVB rays cause sunburn and play a major role in skin cancer.
• UVA rays lead to skin aging, dark spots, and also contribute to skin cancer.

If a sunscreen doesn't say broad-spectrum, it may protect you only from UVB.

Choose SPF 30 or Higher

SPF tells you how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays. Dermatologists recommend at least:

• SPF 30 for daily use
• SPF 50 or higher if you'll be outdoors for longer periods

Higher SPF values help because most people apply far less than the amount used in testing, which lowers real-world protection.

Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens

Both types work well, but they suit different skin types.

Mineral Sunscreens

• Contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
• Good for: sensitive skin, rosacea, eczema, people who get eye stinging
• Pros: gentle, start working immediately
• Cons: can feel thicker or leave a white cast

Chemical Sunscreens

• Contain ingredients like avobenzone, octisalate, homosalate, or newer filters in some international formulas.
• Good for: most skin types
• Pros: lightweight, blend easily, great for everyday wear
• Cons: may irritate sensitive skin or eyes

There is no "better" type—choose the one you are most likely to use consistently.

Water-Resistance for Swimming or Sweating

If you'll be active outdoors, look for:

• 40-minute water-resistant
• 80-minute water-resistant

No sunscreen is fully waterproof or sweat-proof, so you still need to reapply.

How Much You Apply Really Matters

One of the most important—but most overlooked—parts of sun protection is the amount.

In laboratories, sunscreen is tested at a specific thickness. Most people use only 25–50% of that, which can cut the protection level dramatically.

To get closer to full SPF protection:

• Use about a nickel-sized amount for your face
• Use 1 ounce (a shot-glass amount) for your whole body
• Reapply every 2 hours, or sooner if sweating or swimming
• With sprays, apply until the skin looks shiny, then rub it in

Even the best sunscreen won't work if you don't use enough.

Consider Tinted Sunscreens if You Have Dark Spots

People with melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or darker skin tones may benefit from tinted mineral sunscreens. They contain iron oxides, which help block visible light—another trigger for pigmentation.

Does Price Matter?

Not necessarily. Many affordable sunscreens work just as well as expensive ones.

What you pay for often reflects:

• Texture and cosmetic elegance
• Added ingredients (like antioxidants or niacinamide)
• More tint options
• Marketing and branding

If you need to apply sunscreen generously every day, a lower-cost option can actually help you use the right amount without worrying about wasting product.

Pick a Formula You'll Actually Use

This may be the most important factor of all. The right sunscreen is the one you're willing to apply every day.

Options include:

• Lotions: great for body use
• Creams: good for dry or sensitive skin
• Gels: better for oily or acne-prone skin
• Sprays: convenient, especially for reapplication
• Sticks: helpful for kids and around the eyes
• Tinted formulas: blend well and help with pigmentation

The Bottom Line

When choosing a sunscreen, look for:

• Broad-spectrum protection
• SPF 30 or higher
• A formula that fits your skin type
• Water-resistance if you're active
• A product you like enough to apply generously

And remember: How you use sunscreen matters just as much as which one you buy.