Sunshine has finally arrived. You know what that means: Hitting the beach, eating lunch out on the patio and going for outdoor runs. Of course, no swim bag is complete without a tube of sunscreen. But have you been out to buy sunscreen lately? The shelves are filled from floor to ceiling with the latest formulas and solutions. It’s hard to know which kind is best. And yet, you know it’s important. SPF blocks UV rays that can destroy collagen and cause wrinkles to appear. Which kind is right for you? In honor of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, we’re giving you a breakdown of the best kinds of sunscreen to protect your skin:
Need just a little bit of coverage? Try a tinted moisturizer
Some days you may not have time to relax outside on a lounge chair with a good book. If you’re running in and outdoors all day, you’re less likely to need a heavy duty SPF. The Skin Cancer Foundation refers to this as incidental sun exposure and recommends a basic SPF 15. You can incorporate a tinted moisturizer into your morning beauty routine to get your dose of sunscreen. It offers just a hint of color – less than a foundation – so it provides fabulous sheer coverage. This works for all kinds of skin types. Individuals with oily skin can track down a pressed powder, which will absorb moisture. Anyone with dry skin can try a liquid that can keep skin hydrated.
Prefer an all-natural sunblock? Look for these two ingredients
Looking at the back of a sunblock label can make your head spin. However, if you’re looking for a sunscreen that blocks UV rays, make sure your sunblock of choice has either titanium or zinc oxide. These ingredients work to reflect the sun before it reaches your skin. They are a bit thicker than other types of sunscreen – just think of the classic image of a lifeguard with a white stripe down his or her nose.
Choosing the right sunscreen can help protect your skin this summer.Is your skin drying out? Go for uber-hydration
Spending a day in the sun can leave your skin parched – it’s one of the reasons you come home from a day on the beach and fall asleep immediately. Finding a SPF that is chock-full of antioxidants can help retain moisture.
“Almost as important as prepping your skin for sun exposure (slopping on a minimum of SPF 30 sunscreen, using a full ‘shot glass’ amount per application, and re-applying every 2-3 hours) is caring for your skin pre- and post-sun exposure. This is where antioxidants play a vital role in skin’s appearance and health,” noted dermatologist Dendy Engelman MD in Health Magazine.
Wind can compound the dehydration problem. If you suffer from dry skin, make sure to try a hydrating sunscreen. And as the good doctor mentioned, don’t forget to reapply!
Need an easy application? Go for the spray sunscreen
When spray sunscreen first hit the market, we were thrilled. No more white streaks! No more bending over at awkward angles! Our love for spray sunscreen hasn’t diminished. These products are ideal for individuals that need an easy way to reach their back, especially when they’re on the run. Plus, they’re easy to pack without having to worry about the bottle accidentally opening. Thanks to how light it is, this is perfect for individuals with oily skin.
Take a few preventative measures this summer by choosing the right sunscreen. You’ll be able to enjoy the pool or the beach without worrying about getting burned – and your skin will thank you for it.
