Usually people look at my skin and they immediately assume that I know a thing or two about facial sunscreen. They are not exactly wrong in this assumption, but it is rather unfortunate that the same stereotype does not exist for everyone else who has a face or skin.
We all need to wear facial sunscreen, even though it sometimes seems a stress. If you have problems finding the right sunscreen for your skin type, or if you simply lack motivation, then I hope I can change that.
Importance of wearing facial sunscreen
Facial sunscreen can protect us from all the evil that the sun can do to our skin. While only sunburns are obvious, there are two other long-term concerns: premature aging and skin cancer. The latter is obviously much worse than the first, but I know that sometimes vanity is a much better motivator than death.
The sun's rays damage our skin, no matter how dark it is. While melanin (the chemical in the skin that makes it look darker) contains a natural SPF, it is not high enough to completely protect against all the dangers of the sun.
While many sunscreens protect against sunburn (which is what the SPF measures, it's important to find a facial sunscreen that also protects against long-term skin damage, such as pigmentation and sunspots, and also mitigates the carcinogenic effects of the sun .
UVA, UVB and UVC: The Different Sunbeams
The sun emits three types of rays: UVA, UVB and UVC. We do not have to worry about UVC radiation because these rays do not reach us here on earth.
UVB rays are the ones we've been most worried about historically (they're all too) sunscreens can protect us from that). The UVB rays are responsible for damage to the uppermost layers of our skin, resulting in sunburn and surface cancer.
UVA rays penetrate deeper into our skin and cause premature aging (wrinkles and sunspots, I'm looking for you!). Recently, there is also evidence that UVA radiation is responsible for some types of skin cancer.
SPF, Broad Spectrum and PA: The Types of Sunscreen
There are three common ways in which sunscreen is advertised and regulated, and it is important to know what each of them means to them.
We're all very familiar with the first one, SPF, I'm sure. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and what it measures is how long the sunscreen prevents your skin from burning. If your skin will normally burn after 10 minutes of sun exposure, an SPF 15 will keep your skin from burning for 150 minutes.
However, after reaching SPF 30, subsequent SPF increases do not necessarily correlate with much stronger protection - instead they only lull you into a false sense of security. Since SPF only looks at sunburns, this means that an SPF only tells you how much UVB your sunscreen protects from you.
Broad spectrum sunscreens are sunscreens that can block both UVA and UVB rays, thereby protecting the skin from all three of the sun's facial worries: burning, aging and cancer. To count as a broad-spectrum sunscreen, a facial sunscreen must be able to block at least 1/3 as much UVA as UVB.
The excellent new addition to the reviews of facial sunscreen is the PA system. PA stands for UV protection class of UVA and measures how well a face shield protects the skin from UVA radiation. On a facial sunscreen, you may see both the SPF and something like PA +, PA ++, PA +++ and so on. The more plus signs in addition to the PA, the longer the time in which The sunscreen can protect your skin from UVA radiation.
This system comes from Japan and has become popular in the West along with the popularity of Asian Beauty. If one of your primary concerns is to prevent premature aging, look for a sunscreen that has both SPF and at least PA ++. Another way to classify sunscreens that occasionally pop up is PPD. PPD stands for Persistent Pigment Darkening and tests how long a sunscreen protects the skin from dusk. Because the darkening of the skin is caused by UVA, the PPD tells you the UVA protection capabilities of the sunscreen.
Chemical vs Mineral Face Sunscreen << Some common chemical sunscreens contain avobenzone, Tinosorb, Helioplex and octinoxate. There are many more chemical sunscreen ingredients out there, some of which are not yet approved for use in the United States.
The only two mineral sunscreen ingredients are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. If you've ever noticed that a sunscreen throws your skin white or gray (or heard someone complain about it), then that's because these sunscreen minerals are white pigments that reflect the light.
Some myths exist that mineral and chemical sunscreens work very differently, but it's not entirely true - both work primarily by absorbing UVA and UVB and turning them into heather, though mineral sunscreens also provide some reflect these rays as part of their protective mechanism.
All in all, both mineral and chemical sunscreens can be excellent ingredients, although there are some concerns about the environmental impact of some chemical sunscreen ingredients. Oxybenzone and octinoxate, for example, have been associated with the destruction of coral reefs near popular beaches.
Should I worry about vitamin D deficiency?
As you may already know, Exposure UVB radiation stimulates the production of vitamin D in our body. Because of this, some people have expressed concerns about whether using a sunscreen will cause vitamin D deficiency.
While this is theoretically possible, studies conducted have shown no association between the use of sunscreens and vitamin D - perhaps because of imperfect sunscreen applications or perhaps because there are more factors.
Since the cancer risks associated with sun exposure are extremely dangerous (more dangerous than vitamin D deficiency), it is better to wear a sunscreen. If you are concerned about vitamin D deficiency, talk to your doctor about taking a supplement. How to apply facial sunscreen and how to combine it with make-up
Some common chemical sunscreens contain avobenzone, Tinosorb, Helioplex and octinoxate. There are many more chemical sunscreen ingredients out there, some of which are not yet approved for use in the United States.
The only two mineral sunscreen ingredients are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. If you've ever noticed that a sunscreen throws your skin white or gray (or heard someone complain about it), then that's because these sunscreen minerals are white pigments that reflect the light.
Some myths exist that mineral and chemical sunscreens work very differently, but it's not entirely true - both work primarily by absorbing UVA and UVB and turning them into heather, though mineral sunscreens also provide some reflect these rays as part of their protective mechanism.
All in all, both mineral and chemical sunscreens can be excellent ingredients, although there are some concerns about the environmental impact of some chemical sunscreen ingredients. Oxybenzone and octinoxate, for example, have been associated with the destruction of coral reefs near popular beaches.
Should I worry about vitamin D deficiency?
As you may already know, Exposure UVB radiation stimulates the production of vitamin D in our body. Because of this, some people have expressed concerns about whether using a sunscreen will cause vitamin D deficiency.
While this is theoretically possible, studies conducted have shown no association between the use of sunscreens and vitamin D - perhaps because of imperfect sunscreen applications or perhaps because there are more factors.
Since the cancer risks associated with sun exposure are extremely dangerous (more dangerous than vitamin D deficiency), it is better to wear a sunscreen. If you are concerned about vitamin D deficiency, talk to your doctor about taking a supplement. How to apply facial sunscreen and how to combine it with make-up
Once you understand the meaning When you wear a facial sunscreen daily, it's time to learn how to use it and how You can combine your facial sunscreen with makeup.
1. Always start with a clean face. Use a gentle facial cleanser to remove sweat and impurities from your skin. 2. Follow your usual skincare routine: toners, skin serums, facial moisturizers, etc. If your face sunscreen is very soft, or if you moisturizer has an SPF, you can simply enjoy the two-pack. in-one and skip your non SPF moisturizer.
3. For your sunscreen to be effective, you must apply at least a quarter teaspoon to your face. I find the easiest way to do this is in two applications of a teaspoon of a teaspoon.
4. Gently rub the sunscreen into the skin in circular upward strokes. Do not rub too hard, otherwise the sunscreen may get on your hands. After your skin has absorbed the first ⅛ teaspoon (it could take a minute or two), apply the second ⅛ teaspoon.
5. Wait a moment for the sunscreen to be on your skin. Now you can apply your makeup.
6. It is better to avoid using facial lotion when wearing sunscreen, as this may affect the effectiveness of your sunscreen. Choose a face mask with silicone that can serve as a primer.
7. Apply your foundation with gentle movements by lightly pressing in or brushing downwards. Do not mix it up and exaggerate it - you might end up removing some of your facial sunscreen.
8. When using powder, be sure to use it in a knocking motion.
To remove the Face Sunscreen
Since the purpose of facial sunscreen is to create a hard-to-remove film over the skin, cleaning may require a little more work. However, it is still important to remove facial suncreams at night so that the skin can take its dose of nocturnal nutrition.
The easiest way to remove sunscreen is with an oil-based cleanser. Using an oil-based cleanser, you can massage your time your skin and really break every bit of sunscreen (as well as make-up, dirt and sweat) without irritating your skin.
You can remove the cleanser, along with all the sunscreen, with either a microfiber cloth, cotton pads or facial sponges. If you have oily skin, you can follow it with an oil-free cleanser. Remember to take care of your skin when you are all clean, with toners, serums, and moisturizers.
Applying the sunscreen during the day
Since your sunscreen is exposed to the sun's rays, it absorbs and worsens. This means that on days when you spend most of your time outdoors, you need to re-apply your face cream every hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours.
On days when you spend most of your time indoors, your first morning use of suncreams will take a long time because you are not at the same level. Before you go outside, you may want to refresh your sunscreen, even if a cumulative 2 hours have not necessarily passed.
Re-Applying Sunscreen Over Makeup
If you wore makeup, obviously you can not refresh your sunscreen with a creamy product. For a day when you spend most of your time in the sun, it is best to skip make-up altogether, as it can be difficult to apply the appropriate amount of sunscreen to the make-up.
You can still slightly strengthen your sunscreen face by either using a SPF makeup spray, such as the Coola Setting Spray with SPF 30 (available from Sephora) or a face powder with SPF like this bareMinerals Mineral Veil Broad Spectrum with SPF 25 (available at Sephora ).
How To Choose A Face Sunscreen For Your Skin Type
Your skin type is really important when choosing a face sunscreen for a very simple reason: if you do not like the sunscreen you use feel or look, you are just less likely to use it! That's why a cosmetically elegant face sunscreen is just as important as an effective one.
Face Sunscreen for Oily Skin : Look for a sunscreen with a really thin texture, like a lotion or a gel. Some face sunscreens actually have skin matting ingredients that will make your skin look smooth and fat free as they protect you. I have some great suggestions for facial suncreams to match your skin!
Facial Sunscreens for Dry Skin : Look for a creamy and moisturizing sunscreen, with a creamy or balsam-type texture. Those with dry skin often treat facial sunscreens, which cause pilling when mixed with their moisturizers, or get caught in the dry areas. So take care.
Tan and Dark Skin Facial Sunscreens
b>: You may need to avoid mineral sunscreen as it is very likely to add a gray tint to your skin. Some companies resolve this by tinting their facial sunscreen, which is another option.Face sunscreen for sensitive skin : The wrong sunscreen can sting and irritate sensitive skin. A common culprit is avobenzone - many people with sensitive skin find that it causes a burning sensation for up to one hour after application. You will probably be safer with a mineral sunscreen.
Face Sunscreen For Acne Skin : It's hard to predict which ingredients cause and what acne does. Generally avoid facial sunscreen with greasy formulas. Many people find that using Japanese and Korean sunscreens is less likely to cause breakouts.
Best Face Sunscreen For Different Skin Types
Know the basics of using a facial sunscreen and choose one based on your skin type, you can review our suggestions of the best face sunscreen for every skin type and concerns ,
Best Face Sunscreen for Oily and Acne Skin
1. Elta MD Physical SPF 41
Elta MD is a brand known for their high-quality physical sunscreens that provide excellent broadband protection. What else can you expect from a dermatologist brand?
Although you can not go wrong with any of your facial sunscreens, this is by far the most popular. It offers broadband protection with mineral ingredients. To offset the whiteness of these ingredients, a light tint has been added that can even replace make-up for those with mild to medium skin. Those with greasy skin will love how dull they leave their skin without ever causing breakouts or sensitivity. A little silicone in this formula causes make-up to glide nicely without pilling. Buy this face sunscreen on Dermstore !
Best facial sunscreen for oily and combination skin
1. Biore UV Aqua Rich Water Essence Sunscreen SPF 50 PA +++
This incredible sunscreen is the gold standard in K-Beauty. With a formula that is both very protective and hyper-elegant, what is not to love?
For those with oily skin, it quickly sinks in without being greasy, and it can completely replace your moisturizer. The SPF comes from chemical sunscreen ingredients, so there is absolutely no white cast.
Even those with normal and dry skin love this formula because it sits well on moisturizers - just to be warned contains alcohol, so it's not good for sensitive skin. Pick up on Amazon !
2. La Roche Posay Anthelios XL SPF 60 Ultralight Sunscreen Extreme
With a 5-star rating across the board, this broad-spectrum facial sunscreen will appeal to even the hottest people. Any skin type could use it, but oily and combination skin types adore it because it leaves their skin dull, but not dry.
This formula drops very quickly, does not cause breakouts, and rarely aggravates sensitivity. It also works well with make-up, and could completely replace your moisturizer if you are greasy on the oily side.
It's a chemical face sunscreen, so it does not leave a white imprint, but it does have a bit of a chemical smell. You can buy it at Ulta .
Best Faces sun shimmer for oily and sensitive skin
1. COOLA Suncare Face Unscented Mineral Sunscreen Matte Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Some curses go as deep as sensitive, acne-prone or greasy ones Skin. That's why COOLA has developed a fragrance-free product that is mineral and completely dull. Your skin will be protected throughout the day, yet non-greasy, without the risk of irritation.
To prevent the skin from becoming pale, a hint of tinting has been added to soften the whiteness of hair's mineral face sunscreen. The tint is warm, which works well for most people. The texture is like that of a primer, so it's beautiful under the primer. Find it at Nordstrom !
Best Face Sunscr For Mature, Sensitive, Oily and Combination Skin
1. Paula's Choice Resist Super Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30
You already know, I love Paula's Choice, but surprisingly she does not have any really exceptional high SPF face sunscreen. However, SPF 30 is more than enough and this offer is also broad.
Based entirely on zinc oxide, the mildest ingredient in sunscreen, it's perfect for sensitive skin. In addition to being light, fast-absorbing and non-comedogenic, it also stands out as one of the best facial sunscreens, with truly incredible anti-aging ingredients such as resveratrol, vitamin C and pomegranate extract.
To compensate for the pale color of zinc oxide, a mineral tint has been added to it. Take this incredible sunscreen on Nordstrom .
Best Sunscreens for Normal and Dry Skin
1. Shiseido Extra Smooth Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 38 PA ++
This is another sunscreen I feel a little silly just to recommend a skin type as anyone could use it without problems. This lotion offers a mix of mineral and chemical sunscreens and protects against all types of sun damage.
It sinks quickly into the skin, but without dulling the skin, so I think it's better for normal to dry the skin. This sunscreen has also been loaded with some extra antioxidant ingredients, making it truly multi-tasking, by protecting you from the sun itself, as well as from aging free radicals. It is available at Sephora .
Best Facial Sunscreens f For dry, sensitive and mature skin
1. Josie Maran Argan Day Moisturizer SPF 47
Two-in-one moisturizers and facial sunscreens often do not have a high enough sun protection factor or a broad coverage, but this amazing facial sunscreen from Josie Maran breaks the mold. It is super moisturizing, with a luxurious and thick texture.
Since it's a mineral face sunscreen, it leaves a white cast, but it fades pretty quickly. This formula also contains a wonderful blend of anti-aging ingredients, including the famous argan oil.
Make-up goes super well with this formula and looks extra dewy. You can buy this sunscreen at Sephora .
Best Facial Sun Cream for Sensitive, Mature, Dry and Combination Skin
1. MDSolarScie nces Mineral Cream Wide Spectrum SPF 50 UVA-UVB Sunscreen
This sunscreen with high SPF protects you inside and outside the pool as it has high water resistance. This gentle formula blends seamlessly into the skin, leaving a silky finish.
It's all mineral, so perfect for sensitive skin; Just watch out for this white cast (or look at their tinted formula instead). Thanks to the addition of vitamin C and green tea extract, this formula is also ideal for premature aging. You can find this beautiful sunscreen at Sephora .
Best sunscreen for normal, dry and mature skin
1. Kate Somerville Daily Deflector Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ Anti-Aging Sunscreen
If the name of a product is a mouth full, it must be good, right? In this case, this chemical sunscreen is certainly. With protection against both UVA and UVB, and a host of anti-aging benefits, it's a wonderful two in a face sunscreen and skin care product. This moisturizer quickly sinks into the skin leaving a rich, hydrated feel.
It contains some skin care powerhouses, such as wrinkle-smoothing peptides and antioxidant vitamins. You will find this moisturizer / sunscreen combination at Nordstrom .
Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin
1. CoTz Face Natural Skin Tone SPF 40
This waterproof sunscreen is one of the best mineral face sun creams on the market. It offers excellent protection against UVA and UVB rays and has a really light and smooth consistency.
The application is very elegant - a few seconds of rubbing, and this facial sunscreen is absorbed into the skin, leaving behind a smooth canvas that is ready for make-up.
Since it's all mineral, a tint has been added to counteract the white cast. The tint is not overwhelming, so it is suitable for all skin tones, and it may even be a substitute for the foundation on big skin days.
The formula is super easy, without too many ingredients, so that they will love with sensitive skin. It can be bought at Ulta .
Best facial sunscreen for all skin types
1. Cover FX Clear Cover Invisible Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30
< p> I love to spice up great Canadian brands! This is a chemical-based gel sunscreen with an ultra-light texture that is suitable for just about anyone. Because it is a chemical sunscreen, it is well suited for darker skin tones.It works as a sunscreen as well as a foundation to create a truly beautiful foundation for make-up. It also moisturizes the skin easily and protects it from premature aging with antioxidant ingredients such as tomato and sesame seed extracts. You can find this beautiful face sunscreen at Sephora .
Make-up based facial sunscreens < so while a two-in-one make-up and sunscreen product seems comfortable, chances are it's not - at least not as your only source of sunscreen. we need to use at least a ¼ teaspoon of sunscreen to get enough coverage.
For most of us that's too much makeup, and it would lead to a cactus look. Applying a Foundation or BB cream with SPF gently on a range of facial sunscreens, and supplementing makeup with a face powder with SPF, is a great way to give a little more protection throughout the day ,
Almost all BB, CC and DD creams have a high SPF, so you can choose one for your skin type.
Other Sunscreen Tips
• Face sunscreen is great, but an opaque wide-brimmed hat will help protect your face skin.
• Apply your sunscreen before leaving home and give it enough time to sink in and face a movie over your face (about 10-20 minutes).
• Never mix your sunscreen with a moisturizer or foundation - you can seriously compromise the protective effect of your sunscreen even on even the tiniest drops. • Remember that your sunscreen should always be the last step in your skin care! Therefore, a sunscreen, which also serves as a primer, the best way.
• Do not forget your lips! Facial sun creams do not really cover the lips, so use a lip balm or a chapstick with an SPF, such as the Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm with SPF 25 (available at Nordstrom ).
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What's your favorite face sunscreen? Do you have amazing sun protection tips? Any terrible sunburn stories? Share it with us by commenting!
Photos via @ptitelady, @beautylookbook
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