Choosing the right sunscreen isn’t just about avoiding a tan or staying cool under the sun. The consequences can go far beyond sunburn. Take Lisa, a bank employee from San Francisco, for example. Every summer, she heads to Lake Tahoe for camping. She thought wearing a hat and long sleeves would be enough. But after a day outdoors, her nose and ears were sunburned and peeling. Her dermatologist warned her that ignoring sun protection could lead to premature aging—or worse, increase her risk of skin cancer.
More and more dermatologists are reminding us: sunscreen isn’t just for vacations or beach trips. It should be part of your daily skincare routine, regardless of the weather. But with aisles full of creams, sprays, gels, and sticks—labeled SPF this and water-resistant that—choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Ethan, a grad student in New York, used to grab whatever bottle looked familiar, figuring that “something’s better than nothing.” Turns out that “something” often made his skin break out or feel greasy, and he’d stop using it altogether.
To find the right sunscreen for you, here’s what you need to know—minus the marketing fluff.
First, let’s talk about SPF—Sun Protection Factor. SPF 30 is widely recommended by dermatologists and can block about 97% of UVB rays. Some assume the higher the number, the better the protection. But SPF 50 only offers a marginal increase. What matters more is how often you reapply. Megan, an outdoor photographer from Arizona, once assumed a layer of SPF 70 would last her all day. After a half-day shoot, her arms were still red. Now, she makes sure to reapply every two hours, especially after sweating or swimming.
What about form—lotion, spray, or stick? That depends on your skin type and daily routine. Natalie, a mom of two in California, prefers spray sunscreen for her squirmy kids. “I literally spray them while they’re running around.” For adults with acne-prone skin, oil-free gels or lightweight lotions might feel better. Stick sunscreens work great around the eyes, where precision matters and cream may sting.
Then, there’s the ingredient list. Sunscreens fall into two major camps: chemical and mineral. Chemical sunscreens include ingredients like avobenzone and octocrylene, which absorb UV rays and convert them to heat. But for some, they may trigger allergic reactions or skin irritation. Daniel, a freelance writer in Chicago, once developed a painful red rash after using a new sunscreen—diagnosed as contact dermatitis by his doctor.
Mineral sunscreens (also called physical sunscreens) use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to reflect UV rays. These are often less irritating and better tolerated by sensitive skin, though they can leave a white cast. They’re often recommended for children or those undergoing skin treatments. If your skin tends to react easily, it’s worth trying a mineral formula first.
Environmental impact is another growing concern. Some chemical sunscreen ingredients have been linked to coral reef damage. Hawaii has even banned sunscreens containing certain harmful substances. If you're headed for a beach vacation, look for products labeled “reef-safe.”
No matter which formula you pick, it should offer broad-spectrum protection. That means it blocks both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays (sometimes called “aging rays”) can pass through glass and cause wrinkles, dark spots, and long-term skin damage—even when you’re indoors. UVB rays are the ones that cause visible sunburn. You need protection from both.
What about skin tone—does that change what you need? Absolutely. Fair-skinned individuals (like those of Irish or Scandinavian descent) have less melanin and are more susceptible to sunburn and skin cancer. Emma, an outdoor educator in Boston, never leaves the house without SPF 50, and often pairs it with long sleeves and a wide-brimmed hat. On the other hand, darker skin tones may not burn as easily, but they’re more prone to discoloration from UVA exposure. Dr. Marcus, a dermatologist in Chicago, reminds his patients: “Just because you don’t burn easily doesn’t mean you’re immune to sun damage.”
Even the best sunscreen won’t work if you don’t use it properly. Most people only apply about 25–50% of the recommended amount—roughly one ounce for full-body coverage (enough to fill a shot glass). Apply at least 15 minutes before going outside to give your skin time to absorb it. Don’t forget easy-to-miss areas like the ears, back of the neck, tops of your feet, and even your scalp part line.
And yes, sunscreen expires. Most are effective for about three years after purchase. Check the label for expiration dates or look for signs like separation, discoloration, or an off smell.
At the end of the day, sunscreen isn’t about fear—it’s about freedom. The freedom to enjoy your time outdoors, knowing your skin is protected. Whether you're hiking in the Rockies, strolling through Central Park, or biking along the California coast, the right sunscreen is your skin’s best defense.
So don’t just grab whatever’s on sale. Think about your skin type, your daily routine, and the places you go. A thoughtful choice today can save you a lot of regret tomorrow. And who knows? You might even find a sunscreen you actually enjoy using.