Ever felt confused standing in the sunscreen aisle? You’re not alone. Sunblock isn’t just about slathering on any white cream before heading outdoors. Picking the right sunblock and applying it properly really does make or break your skin’s protection.
First thing: not all sunblocks are equal. Look for the words ‘broad spectrum’ on the label. This means it guards you from both harmful UVA (causing early aging) and UVB (causing burns) rays. Aim for SPF 30 or higher—anything less is just not worth the risk if you plan to spend time outside. If you sweat a lot or plan to swim, water-resistant formulas make life easier, but don’t trust them to last forever. You still need to reapply every two hours, or right after getting wet.
Most people don’t use enough—here’s a reality check: adults need at least one shot glass (about 1 ounce) to cover their whole body. Dab a nickel-sized amount just for your face, plus extra for ears, neck, and the back of your hands. Missing these spots is a classic mistake. Don’t forget the tops of your feet and your scalp if you’re not wearing a hat.
Spray sunblocks seem fast and easy, but they can be tricky. You usually end up with uneven patches. If you use spray, always rub it in thoroughly and avoid breathing it in. Creams do take more effort, but you’ll know you’ve covered everything people often miss.
Timing matters too. Put sunblock on 15 minutes before you head outside. If you’re spending the day out, carry your sunscreen with you. You never know when clouds will part, and even on overcast days, up to 80% of UV rays make it through.
Worried about sensitive skin or breakouts? Go for mineral-based sunblocks with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. They block rays right on the skin’s surface and are less likely to sting or clog pores. These types also start working the second they’re applied—no waiting required.
Kids need even more protection. Opt for mineral sunblocks for them too, and dress them in hats and lightweight long sleeves during peak sun hours (usually 10am to 4pm). The Skin Cancer Foundation says a single blistering sunburn as a child doubles your risk of some skin cancers later in life. That’s a real motivator.
If you want extra perks, you’ll find sunblocks with hydrating ingredients and antioxidants. Just don’t let fancy extras distract you from the basics: broad spectrum, adequate SPF, and regular reapplication. And here’s something wild—a study in Australia showed people who used sunscreen daily had less aging and fewer wrinkles even decades later. So, sunblock isn’t just a summer thing; it’s an everyday skin investment.
Avoid multi-tasking products like makeup with SPF if you’ll be in the sun for long. It’s fine for short errands, but serious exposure needs serious protection. Stick a travel-sized sunscreen in your bag and you’ll never have to choose between healthy skin and a good time outside.
When choosing an eco-friendly sunblock, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, look for natural ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are known to be non-toxic and safe for the environment. Secondly, check the label to see if the product is certified organic, vegan and cruelty-free, to ensure that it is truly eco-friendly. Thirdly, look for sunblocks with a minimal amount of packaging, such as recyclable containers or biodegradable paper. Finally, avoid sunblocks with synthetic fragrances, as these can be damaging to the environment. Ultimately, choosing an eco-friendly sunblock is an important step in protecting yourself and the planet.