Navigating through the sunscreen aisle can be a daunting task, especially because there are so many products available on the market today. When searching for the perfect sunscreen lotion, there are many things to consider. Which chemicals are bad? What formulation offers the most protection? Will it clog my pores?
With all of these questions at hand, we understand that you may need some expert advice, which is why we’ve included the five most important things to look for in an everyday sunscreen lotion. Consider the following when making your purchase, so that you are choosing both the best sunscreen for your skin type and a formula that will offer sufficient protection.
1.ﾠMaximum Protection
Look for a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum coverage with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Only broad-spectrum coverage ﾖ if used as directed ﾖ can offer maximum UVA and UVB protection, decreasing the risk of skin cancer and early signs of aging caused by the sun. Along with using a broad-spectrum formula, you should also be taking other sun protection measures such as limiting time in the sun (especially during the peak times of 11:00 a.m. ﾖ 3:00 p.m.) and wearing protective clothing.
2. Water and Sweat Resistant
If you’re going to be exercising or hanging out in the water, it’s beneficial to use a sunscreen that is both sweat and water resistant. With that being said however, it’s important to understand that water resistant doesn’t mean the sunscreen holds permanently, but rather after 80 minutes of swimming. Reapplication is always necessary, as these types of sunscreen lotions are in no way waterproof.
3. Chemical Block
There are two types of sunscreens: physical and chemical. A chemical sunscreen is absorbed by the skin, and sunlight is deactivated after contact with the chemicals contained in the sunscreen. Chemical sunscreens typically contain a range of ingredients that block UVA and UVB rays to safeguard the skin against sun damage. They offer more coverage against UVA and UVB rays than physical sunscreens, and won’t leave the skin greasy, filmy or opaque in colour.
4. Non-Greasy
Sunscreen can be an oily nuisance, so when it comes to picking a good sunscreen, it’s important to look for a smooth, matte formula that layers perfectly under your foundation. Thankfully, face sunscreens, which are designed specifically for delicate facial skin, have non-comedogenic formulations that will not clog the pores. So, if you’re prone to breakouts, choosing a non-greasy, dry touch formula would be your best option.
5. SPF 30 ﾖ 50
SPF stands for sun protection factor, specifically rating the effectiveness of the sunscreen in preventing sunburn caused by ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. A 30 SPF filters out 97% of UVB and provides 30 times the protection of no sunscreen. In other words, SPF 30 is multiplied by a factor of 30, so if you’d normally burn in 10 minutes, you could go 300 minutes before burning.
Moreover, there are common misconceptions about higher SPF and sun protection. For example, many people are misled by the claims on high-SPF sunscreen bottles, and as a result, are more likely to use high-SPF sunscreens improperly. In fact, the higher the SPF doesn’t necessarily mean the better. When used correctly, sunscreen with SPF values in the range of 30 to 50 offers adequate sunburn protection, even for people those most prone to sunburn.
Choosing Your Formula
If you’re in the market for a new sunscreen lotion, our Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 is a broad-spectrum formula that offers all of the factors mentioned above. It is also is an essential component to any Miracle 10 skincare regime as it provides vital anti-aging benefits.
Other features of this product include:
Dry-touch application will allow for an effortless makeup application
Non-comedogenic formulation will not clog pores
Water and sweat resistant formula will retain SPF after 80 minutes of physical activity