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If you have yet to stock up on sunscreen, now’s the time. Of course it’s important to protect your skin year-round, but as the weather heats up, you’ll inevitably spend more time outside—and more time in the sun means greater risk of sun damage.
When it comes to choosing SPF, the first step is decided between mineral and chemical options. Most dermatologists agree that mineral sunscreen—made with the active ingredients zinc oxide and titanium dioxide—is best at protecting skin. These filters form a physical barrier on top of skin, reflecting UV rays. Chemical sunscreens (Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, and Avobenzone), on the other hand, absorb rays and have (in some studies) been linked to hormone disruption.
Once you decide to go for a mineral formula, consider skin type and tone, when you’ll be using it, and what body part you want to cover. Here’s the best one for every need.
Oily Skin
Some mineral sunscreens go on greasy, which is the last thing you want when you have oily skin. Suntegrity Face Sunscreen SPF 30 combines powerful zinc protection with aloe vera for light hydration and a non-greasy feel. This product also works double duty as a makeup primer and gives the complexion a balanced appearance.
Suntegrity Face Sunscreen SPF 30, $45
Acne Prone Skin
You may be reluctant to use sunscreen if you break out. However, Pratima Skincare Neem Rose Face Sunscreen SPF 30 is a light formula that won’t clog pores. Neem holds natural antibacterial and antiseptic properties to keep skin clear. while toning down inflammation. Shatavari has a rejuvenating effect, and rose banishes redness and balances the complexion. Use this as a daily healing treatment with the bonus of mineral UV protection.
Pratima Skincare Neem Rose Face Sunscreen SPF 30, $36
Sensitive Skin
Board-certified NYC dermatologist and author of “Skin Rules: Trade Secrets From A Top New York Dermatologist,” Debra Jaliman, MD, recommends mineral sunscreen to prevent the irritation that often accompanies chemical sunscreen ingredients. “I’m a big fan of mineral-based sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens can irritate sensitive skin,” she explains. “They are especially problematic for people with eczema or rosacea. When looking for a sunscreen, it is good to choose one with a high concentration of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Or a combination of both.”
Marie Veronique Everyday Coverage Tinted Sunscreen is super gentle—perfect for easily upset and delicate skin types. Choose from three natural looking tints.
Marie Veronique Everyday Coverage Tinted Sunscreen, $48
Dry Skin
Most of us think we can skip the sunscreen on cloudy days or when we will be mostly indoors, but that’s not true. “It’s important to wear sunscreen every day rain or shine because the ultraviolet light penetrates through the clouds,” says Jaliman. Kari Gran Three Sixty Five SPF 28 was formulated with this in mind. It’s an easy-to-apply, oil-based, mineral protectant that sinks into skin and offers nourishing hydration. Red raspberry, French plum, and kukui oils leave skin soft and supple.
Kari Gran Three Sixty Five, $48
Mature Skin
Sun damage plays a major role in premature skin aging, and mineral protection is your best defense against lines, dark spots, and skin cancer. Suntegrity 5-In-1 Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30 also includes natural anti-aging ingredients to support skin and keep it youthful. Green tea, rosehip, and sea buckthorn prevent free radical damage, brighten and smooth the skin, and bestow a healthy glow. This formula also acts as a tinted moisturizer and primer, and comes in four shades.
Suntegrity 5-In-1 Tinted Sunscreen, $45
Fair Skin
Some mineral sunscreens leave behind a ghostly white tinge; others are tinted and overly tan looking. Neither is great for fair skin tones. Josh Rosebrook Tinted Nutrient Day Cream SPF 30 provides zinc protection in a glow-inducing formula that looks completely natural on even the lightest complexions. It also wards off breakouts and calms irritation.
Josh Rosebrook Tinted Nutrient Day Cream SPF 30, $95
Under Makeup
Choosing sunscreen to wear under makeup can be a dilemma. Check this problem off your list with Kypris Beauty Pot of Shade Heliotropic. It’s an SPF 30 that is suited to most skin types and primes skin for makeup with a boost of radiance. There’s no white cast, and it contains skin conditioning probiotics.
Kypris Beauty Pot of Shade Heliotropic, $68
Brightening
If you are looking for a healthy dose of skin moisture in a tinted sunscreen, True Botanicals Everyday Sheer Coverage SPF 20 is it. This luminizing mineral sunscreen includes a wealth of good-for-skin oils like Abyssinian, coconut, pomegranate, broccoli, and sweet cherry. Coffee seed extract keeps skin bright and refined, and silk and pearl powders have been added to give luster to skin without shine. It blends easily into skin and comes in three natural shades—perfect for light coverage in lieu of foundation.
True Botanicals Everyday Sheer Coverage SPF 20, $40
Body
Of course your body needs sun protection, too. Whether spending the day at the beach or pool, doing a bit of gardening, or simply enjoying time outdoors, it’s important to apply sunscreen. Jaliman recommends Badger All Natural Sunscreen SPF 30. “It contains zinc oxide at a concentration of 18.75-percent, which is very high,” she says. “It is organic. It is also water resistant for 40 minutes. It is unscented so it’s good for those with fragrance sensitivities. It also contains sunflower oil, which is moisturizing and vitamin E, which is full of antioxidants.”
Badger All Natural Sunscreen SPF 30, $15.99
Lips
Don’t forget to protect your pucker. The skin on lips is thinner than other areas of the face and especially prone to sun damage. All Good Lip Balms are made with zinc oxide and soothing natural oils. They are creamy, smooth, and don’t make lips look white. Like your favorite balm—only with sun protection. There are eight fun flavors to choose from and tinted options, too.
All Good Lip Balms, $3.50
Read more:
The Skincare Items Our Editors Can’t Live Without How I Used Tea Tree Oil to Treat My Acne The Best Natural Alternatives to Your Everyday Beauty Products
Published on May 4, 2017