Sunscreen is a must no matter the season, age, or skin type. It helps prevent skin cancer, premature aging, acne scarring, among others. It’s important that we choose one that we feel comfortable with and that we won’t mind re-applying.
As a general rule, all sunscreen should be broad spectrum. Apply them according to the package instructions:
15 to 30 minutes before going out, half a teaspoon for your whole face — don’t forget the neck and hands. The higher SPF will not protect you more, it will protect you for a longer period of time. So, an SPF 30 for example, will protect people with fair skin for two and a half hours.
The math goes like this:
Minutes after you would normally burn under the sun without protection * SPF = minutes your sunscreen will protect you before it starts to lose its effectiveness.
To prevent the clogging of your pores, make sure to remove it properly at night by doing a double cleanse.
Having said that, here are some considerations on what sunscreen to pick for each skin type.
- Kids
Let’s start with the little ones. While no dermatologist would recommend exposing kids to the sun for a lot of hours, outdoor time is still an invaluable part of your kid’s life. Make sure to protect them with their clothing and hats. Also, don’t use your own sunscreen on them. Whenever possible, try to purchase sunscreen specifically formulated for children. You might want to check out Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 50.
Remember that babies under six months old should not be exposed to direct sunlight, their skin is much more sensitive and they are at higher risk of sunburn.
- Normal skin
Normal skin is the easiest to take care of. There are no special considerations for those in this lucky group. Just choose one that you are comfortable with and re-apply during the day.
- Dry or sensitive skin
Drier skins benefit from richer sunscreens with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides. A great example is Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer SPF 50 or ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Tinted Ultralight Emulsion Broad Spectrum SPF 50.
- Oily and acne-prone skin
While it might be counterintuitive to apply a pasty product to greasy skin, it is very important to find the right one for you. It will help you prevent photoaging and acne scarring.
Some of the favorites for this category are CeraVe Skin Renewing Day Cream and Lotus Herbals Safe Sun 3-In-1 Matte Look Daily Sunblock.
- Seniors
Here we enter a tricky topic. It is very important for elderly people to enjoy some time under the sun. This can prevent bone diseases, cancer, depression, and even dementia.
However, it is still very important to make sure they are protected as well. Seniors should apply sunscreen as much as everyone else.
Also, make sure you put a nice big hat on before your daily walk. And stay hydrated!
