How to find the right sunscreen for your skin type in 2024

Do you wear face sunscreen everyday? Choosing the right sunscreen for your skin type is essential for effective protection against harmful UV rays, which can cause skin damage, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer. Formulas have changed so much in recent years that it means wearing sunscreen can actually feel really comfortable on your skin too, so there’s really no reason to skip applying it. Here’s a guide to help you find the perfect sunscreen tailored to your specific skin type.

Understanding Sunscreen Basics

Whether you prefer lotions, creams, gels, sprays, and sticks, there’s a sunscreen for you! It’s important to look out for an SPF designed to protect your skin from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. UVA rays penetrate deeply, leading to aging and long-term damage, while UVB rays cause sunburn. Making sure your bottle says ‘broad-spectrum sunscreen’ will mean it offers protection against both types of rays. Be sure to go for a minimum SPF 30+ but ideally sunscreen spf 50 for maximum protection.  

Identifying Your Skin Type

The great thing about choosing an actual face sunscreen rather than just applying your body sunscreen is that it’s designed for your face. You can choose a product for your skin type too, so it pays to understand what kind of skin you have. 

• ‘Normal’ Skin: Balanced, neither too oily nor too dry.
• Dry Skin: Can feel tight, rough, and may have flaky patches.
• Oily Skin: Shiny with visible pores, prone to acne.
• Combination Skin: Oily in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) and dry or normal elsewhere.
• Sensitive Skin: Prone to irritation, redness, and may have conditions like rosacea or eczema.

How to choose sunscreen for different skin types

Normal Skin

People with ‘normal skin’ can use most sunscreen formulations without significant issues. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Lightweight lotions or gels are generally comfortable for everyday use.

Dry Skin

If you have dry skin, look for sunscreens with moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides. Cream-based sunscreens provide hydration and a protective barrier. Avoid mattifying formulations that can exacerbate dryness.

Oily Skin

Oily skin benefits from non-comedogenic, oil-free, and mattifying sunscreens. Gel-based or water-based formulas are ideal as they feel lighter and help control excess oil without clogging pores.

Combination Skin

For combination skin, you might need to balance moisture and oil control. Lightweight, non-greasy formulas work well. Consider using a different sunscreen for the oily and dry areas if necessary.

Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin requires sunscreens that are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and formulated with gentle ingredients. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often recommended as they may be less likely to irritate compared to chemical sunscreens.

Bonus Sunscreen Beauty Tips

• Reapply Regularly: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
• Test First: If trying a new product, do a patch test on a small area of skin to ensure there’s no adverse reaction.
• Daily Use: Sunscreen should be part of your daily skincare routine, not just for sunny days or outdoor activities.

Finding the right sunscreen for your skin type involves understanding your skin’s needs and choosing a formulation that provides effective protection while being comfortable to wear. Whether you have dry, oily, normal, combination, or sensitive skin, there’s a sunscreen out there that’s perfect for you. Remember, the best sunscreen is the one you’re willing to use consistently, so make it a non-negotiable part of your daily routine to keep your skin healthy and protected.