How to choose the best sunscreen for your face

SPF stands for sun protection factor and indicates how protected your skin will be from the sun’s harmful UVB rays. The higher the SPF number, the higher the percentage of UVB protection. The FDA recommends choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15². Broad-spectrum sunscreens help protect from both UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreens with an SPF of 15 stop up to 93% of UVB rays³. SPF 30 stops up to 97% of UVB rays, and SPF 50 stops up to 98% of UVB rays.  

While higher SPF numbers give you more protection from UVB rays, no SPF, no matter how high, is able to protect you from all UVB rays. If you have fair skin that burns easily, you may wish to choose a higher SPF, but ultimately, regardless of your skin type or tone, the more protected you are from the sun, the better. 

Your skin type can play a significant role in finding the best sunscreen for you, particularly when it comes to facial sunscreen.  

Choosing the best face sunscreen for sensitive skin 

Those with sensitive skin may wish to look out for mineral, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher if they find that chemical sunscreen irritates their skin. Look for wording on the label like fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and noncomedogenic (meaning it won’t clog pores).  

All Coppertone face sunscreens are lightweight, non-comedogenic and free of oxybenzone, octinoxate, PABA, phthalates and dyes. 

Choosing the best sunscreen for skin with early signs of aging  

Unprotected sun exposure can contribute to premature signs of aging such as sun-induced dark spots (aka “sun spots”), uneven skin tone, and wrinkles. For aging skin or skin that is showing signs of sun-related aging, look for a facial sunscreen that not only protects the skin from sun damage but also helps to minimize the appearance of signs of sun damage such as wrinkles or uneven skin tone. 

If you have skin with early signs of aging, consider Coppertone® Every Tone Age UV Defense Face Sunscreen SPF 60+. Developed with dermatologists, this lightweight, daily sunscreen enriched with antioxidant bakuchiol goes on clear and helps defend against early signs of aging from sun exposure, such as fine lines.* Broad Spectrum SPF 60+ sun protection. Stops up to 98% of damaging UV rays. *with continued use and other sun protection measures. Use and reapply as directed. 

If you’re looking for a sunscreen that can help even out your skin tone, consider Coppertone® Every Tone Brightening UV Defense Face Sunscreen SPF 60+. As a lightweight, daily face sunscreen enriched with niacinamide, it goes on clear and helps even skin tone and diminish the appearance of sun-induced dark spots.* Broad Spectrum SPF 60+ sun protection. Stops up to 98% of damaging UV rays. *with continued use and other sun protection measures. Use and reapply as directed. 
 

Mineral Sunscreen 

• Pro: Since they sit on top of the skin, mineral sunscreens can be a good choice for people with sensitive skin who may experience irritation from chemical sunscreen.  
• Con: Mineral sunscreens often have a thick texture and tend to leave a white cast to the skin or may be harder to blend in when applying. 

Chemical Sunscreen 

• Pro: Chemical sunscreen is the most common type of sunscreen and usually has a lighter, thinner texture than mineral sunscreen, making it easier to apply and blend in without leaving a white cast or streaky finish. 
• Con: Chemical sunscreens can sometimes cause irritation in those with sensitive skin. 

UV stands for ultraviolet radiation. UV rays are found naturally in sunlight and the rays that affect the skin are split into two categories - UVA and UVB. UV rays cause damage to the skin such as sunburn and tanning (yes, a suntan is sun damage!). 

Skin damage from UV rays can lead to premature signs of aging and also increases the risk of developing skin cancer. Most skin cancers result from exposure to UV rays from the sun⁴.  

UVA rays penetrate the skin more deeply and are primarily associated with signs of premature aging such as dark spots and wrinkles.  

UVB rays have a shorter wavelength than UVA rays and are most commonly associated with causing a sunburn⁵. 

Historically, only UVB rays were thought to be dangerous, but recent studies have shown that UVA rays are also damaging to your skin⁶. UVA rays are the most prevalent form of UV radiation since they are only minimally absorbed by the ozone layer. This is why it is so important to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that helps protect against both UVA and UVB rays. 

 

Once you’ve chosen the best face sunscreen for you, ensure that you’re applying it properly by following all guidelines on the packaging drug facts box. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your facial sunscreen: 

• Apply the face sunscreen generously all over your face and neck, being sure to apply to often-overlooked areas such as your ears and any exposed areas of your scalp such as a part in your hair. 
• Apply face sunscreen every day throughout the year, even on colder or overcast days. 
• Apply face sunscreen before you apply makeup. 
• Reapply every two hours. Use a water-resistant sunscreen if swimming or sweating.  
• Use face sunscreen in conjunction with other sun protection measures including wearing sun protective clothing like a hat and sunglasses, and avoiding direct sun exposure at peak times of the day where possible.