
Layer it on last: “Generally speaking, sunscreen should be applied to freshly cleansed skin,” says Dr.

La roche face sunscreen skin#
He says to also look for ones that are water-resistant, “meaning it stays on wet skin for 40 minutes.” Camp says to choose a product with a minimum SPF of 30 and one that offers broad-spectrum protection (meaning UVA and UVB radiation). When it comes to how high SPF you really need, Dr. Look for specific coverage: When shopping for sunscreen, it can be easy to get caught up in the numbers. The type you choose is a personal decision, but if you go for a mineral formula, which tends to work better for sensitive skin, apply it in sections so you can thoroughly rub in and sheer out the product. Both have their pros and cons and offer equal protection, says Dr. Lighter gel formulations will also feel less heavy if you tend to get shiny throughout the day.Ĭonsider your skin tone: If you have a medium-to-dark complexion, chemical sunscreens (which are absorbed into the skin) apply more clear, while physical or mineral sunscreens (which sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays) often leave some white cast.

If your skin tends to be oily, look for sunscreens made for acne-prone skin, which tend to have a matte finish. Know your skin type: If you have dry skin, choose a face sunscreen with hydrating ingredients, like hyaluronic acid or ceramides, says Dr. You really have to pay attention to the wording on the bottle because “many sunscreens only protect against UVB rays,” she says.

La roche face sunscreen how to#
How to choose the best sunscreen for your faceĭon’t skimp on quality: The label on your face sunscreen needs to say “broad spectrum” to guard against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays, says Dr. “It leaves no cast or that classic SPF scent and feels lightweight and hydrating on the skin.” Instead, it goes on more like a moisturizer. Prevention’s assistant editor, Shannen Zitz, is also a fan, calling it the first sunscreen she’s tried that doesn’t feel like sunscreen. “Even though it’s oil-free, it goes on smooth and rubs in quickly.” “This oil-free sunscreen offers my sensitive skin great protection,” says Prevention’s senior editor, Emily Goldman. It’s also formulated with hyaluronic acid to hydrate skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. oil),” says Heidi Waldorf, M.D., founder of Waldorf Dermatology Aesthetics in New York. “Designed for patients with rosacea or acne, this oil-free formula provides light moisture, rubs in quickly, and contains niacinamide as an anti-inflammatory to reduce sebum (a.k.a. This fragrance-free sunscreen is lightweight and ideal for finicky skin types. That’s why choosing a sunscreen specifically formulated for your face can yield better results and feel better too. Still, it can be hard to find a sunscreen that isn’t goopy or sticky and doesn’t leave a white cast. “Many face sunscreens contain ingredients like antioxidants or skin-brightening botanicals that offer additional benefits beyond sunscreen itself,” explains Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. A quality SPF can protect your skin from the harmful UV rays that cause fine lines and even help reverse signs of damage by getting rid of age spots, improving texture, and boosting brightness. As a major bonus, the best face sunscreen also keeps your skin looking youthful. Of course, your first priority is to prevent sunburn, which can raise your skin cancer risk. Along with finding the best products that work for your skincare routine, finding the best sunscreen for your face is just as important.

Dermatologists focus on this because it’s one of the best ways (if not the best way!) to protect your skin, regardless of your skin tone. If there’s one thing you put on your face today, let it be sunscreen. We updated this article in June 2023 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive research done by our team.
