Journal / Sun protection
Choosing a sunscreen you will actually use.
A sunscreen protects only when it is on your skin, in the right amount, on most days. Start with three requirements on the label, then choose for comfort.
The short answer
Look for SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum protection and water resistance. Among the products that meet those three, choose the texture and format you find comfortable enough to apply generously every day. Sunscreen works alongside shade and protective clothing.
01 / Start with the label
Three requirements come first.
The American Academy of Dermatology offers a two-step method for choosing sunscreen. The first step is to look for three things on the container.[1]
- SPF 30 or higher
- SPF describes protection against UVB, the rays that burn. SPF 15 filters about 93% of UVB and SPF 30 about 97%. No sunscreen filters 100%.[2] See SPF 30 vs SPF 50.
- Broad spectrum
- Protection against both UVA and UVB. The label may say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB”.[1][2] See UVA vs UVB: what broad-spectrum protection means.
- Water resistance
- The sunscreen stays effective for 40 minutes in water, or 80 minutes if labelled very water resistant. There is no such thing as waterproof sunscreen.[2] See water-resistant sunscreen: what the label means.
Not every sunscreen offers all three. The AAD considers them essential because regular sunscreen use can reduce the risk of skin cancer, sunburn, premature skin ageing and dark spots.[1]
02 / Then your skin
Match the product to your skin.
Limiting yourself to products with the three essentials still leaves many to choose from. The AAD’s second step is to consider your skin and where you will apply the product.[1]
- Acne-prone or oily skin
- Look for “non-comedogenic” or “won’t clog pores”.[1] More in sunscreen for acne-prone skin.
- Dry skin
- Look for “moisturizing” or “dry skin” on the label.[1]
- Sensitive skin
- Choose a product labelled for sensitive skin and avoid fragrance, parabens and oxybenzone.[1]
- Skin that stings with sunscreen
- The AAD suggests a sunscreen containing only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, without fragrance.[1] See mineral vs organic sunscreen filters.
- A white cast
- A tinted sunscreen that matches your skin tone avoids residue. Tinted products also help protect against visible light, which can worsen dark spots.[1] See tinted sunscreen: what it adds beyond colour.
- Around the eyes
- A sunscreen stick can help prevent product running into your eyes.[1] See why sunscreen can sting around your eyes.
- Lips
- A lip balm with SPF 30 or higher and broad-spectrum protection.[1]
03 / The deciding factor
Choose the one you will wear.
Two sunscreens with the same label can feel entirely different on the skin. That difference decides whether a bottle is finished or forgotten.
Think about what has put you off before:
- Texture. Too heavy, too greasy, too drying. Lotions, gels, creams and fluids behave differently.
- Finish. Shiny, matte or somewhere between.
- Behaviour under make-up. Some formulas roll into flakes; see why sunscreen pills.
- Scent and sting. Fragrance-free and mineral-only products exist for these reasons.
- Cost. You need a generous amount daily, so the product has to be one you can afford to use freely. See where to spend and where to save.
A moisturiser that contains sunscreen is acceptable as a daily option, provided it is broad-spectrum with SPF 30 or higher.[4] It suits people who are more likely to keep one step than two.
04 / Using it properly
Amount, timing and reapplication.
A well-chosen sunscreen still depends on how it is used. The AAD’s guidance is specific.[3]
-
Use enough.
At least one teaspoon for the face, and about one ounce, roughly a shot glass, for the exposed skin of an adult body. See how much sunscreen should you apply.
-
Apply before you go out.
It takes around 15 minutes for the skin to absorb sunscreen.
-
Cover what clothing does not.
The neck, ears and tops of the feet are often missed. See sun protection for the neck, chest and hands and hand care.
-
Reapply.
Every two hours outdoors, and immediately after swimming or sweating. The AAD notes that people who get sunburned usually did not reapply, used too little or used an expired product. See when to reapply sunscreen and reapplying over make-up.
Check dates as well. Sunscreen expiry and storage explains when to replace a bottle.
05 / Every day
Cloud, winter and indoor days.
The AAD states that skin is exposed to the sun’s UV rays every time you go outside, including on cloudy days and in winter.[3] That is the case for making sunscreen part of the morning routine instead of a decision made by looking at the sky.
Two related questions have their own guides: does cloudy weather change your sun protection needs and do you need sunscreen indoors or near windows.
One part of sun protection
No sunscreen blocks all UV. The AAD recommends also seeking shade and wearing protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection.[2]
06 / If nothing suits
When every sunscreen causes a problem.
If you have tried several products and each has stung, broken you out or left your skin irritated, it is worth getting advice instead of buying another.
Where to take the question
For texture, finish and fit with your routine, a Skin Edit or a consultation can narrow the field.
For reactions, rashes or a skin condition such as rosacea or melasma, see a dermatologist. The AAD notes that a dermatologist can examine sun-damaged skin and make recommendations.[3]
A few common questions
Frequently asked questions.
What SPF should I use every day?
Is SPF in moisturiser enough?
How much sunscreen should I put on my face?
At least one teaspoon, which is about the amount that covers the length of your index and middle fingers.[3]
Do I need sunscreen on cloudy days?
Yes. The AAD notes that skin is exposed to UV rays whenever you are outside, including on cloudy days and in winter.[3]
What should I use if sunscreen stings my skin?
The AAD suggests a sunscreen that contains only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, without fragrance.[1] If stinging continues, see a dermatologist.
Is waterproof sunscreen better?
There is no waterproof sunscreen. Products can be water resistant for 40 or 80 minutes, after which they must be reapplied.[2]
Sources & scope
This Journal article offers general skincare education and a guide to choosing and using a daily sunscreen. It does not provide a diagnosis, prescribe treatment or replace individual medical advice. The points above draw on the following published resources.
- How do I know if I’m using the right sunscreen? (American Academy of Dermatology) — the three essentials and how to match a sunscreen to your skin.
- How to decode a sunscreen label (American Academy of Dermatology) — what SPF, broad spectrum and water resistance mean.
- How to apply sunscreen (American Academy of Dermatology) — how much to use, when to apply and when to reapply.
- Skin care on a budget (American Academy of Dermatology) — moisturisers that include sunscreen.
Editorial: Merve Akkaya Journal. Learn more about Merve Akkaya.
Continue reading
A little more clarity.
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Protection that fits into your morning.
If you have tried several sunscreens and abandoned them all, say what went wrong with each. The reasons usually point to the right kind of product.
Tell us what you have tried and what you disliked about it. You can explore the consultation options before making an enquiry.
A conversation about suitability comes before choosing a treatment.