How to choose the right sunglasses for you

It can be difficult to know how to choose the right sunscreen. Solar screens help protect your skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, reduce your risk of skin cancer and prevent sunburn and premature aging.

Understanding factors such as SPF, water resistance and wide spectrum protection can help you determine the best products for your needs and your skin type.

The sun protection factor in sunscreen (SPF) is a number that represents the amount of exposure to UV radiation that your skin can take without burning, not the duration in the sun. Factors like your skin type, the frequency you reappear and the time of day can affect the risk of sunburn. Experts suggest a sunscreen reappears every two hours and after sweating a lot or swimming.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, which blocks 97% of the ultraviolet B (UVB) rays of the sun. No sunscreen can block 100% of UVB rays from the sun.

People with certain skin conditions or at a higher risk of skin cancer may need to select a higher FPF. You should reapplicate your sunscreen as often as people with a SPF 30.

Solar screens are available in lotions, creams, gels, spraying, ointments and wax sticks. The best type for you often comes down to your personal preferences. Look for a variety that you will be ready to wear every day.

Different formulas can work better for different types or skin areas. For example, a sunscreen based on cream can be better for dry skin, while a sunscreen based on gel can work better for oily skin. A sunscreen wrap or wax can be easier to use around the eyes, and solar screens can be easier to apply to children.

The AAD does not recommend sunscreens containing insect repellents. Instead, buy two different products and apply them separately. Insect repulsions should be used sparingly.

Some sunscreen ingredients can cause side effects, especially if you have a state of health, sensitive skin or allergies. The factors to consider include:

• Potential allergens: Ingredients such as Avobenzone and Octocrylene can cause allergic reactions such as contact dermatitis. Perfumes, alcohols and preservatives can also cause reactions. If you are not sure of a sunscreen, try it on a small skin of skin for a few days to see how you react.
• Environmental impact: The chemicals of sunscreen can be harmful to coral reefs and other marine lives. A 2022 report from the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) urged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to investigate the impact of sunscreens on marine ecosystems.
• Potential chemical absorption: Some sunscreen ingredients can linger in blood circulation for long periods. A study revealed that six ingredients – Oxybenzone, Avobenzone, Octocrylène, Homalalate, Octisalate and OctoTinoxate – were absorbed in the bloodstream after use and reached levels in the blood that exceeded the Threshold of the Administration of American foods and drugs (FDA).

Studies on the potential effects of the absorption of sunscreen chemicals are underway. The FDA notes that absorption does not necessarily mean that these ingredients are not safe and urges people to continue to use solar screens alongside other sun protection measures, such as wearing protective clothing.

AAD recommends wide spectrum sunscreens because they offer protection against ultraviolet A (UVA) and UVB rays.

UVA rays are sometimes called “aging rays” because they can cause premature skin aging, wrinkles and age spots. They can penetrate glass windows, so that your skin is exposed to sun damage inside.

UVB rays, sometimes called “burning rays”, are the main cause of sunburn. Although they cannot go through window window, you always need protection from them.

Water resistant sunscreen screens are designed to stay on your skin longer when you are in water or perspiration.

Even if you wear a water resistant sunscreen, you should always reapply every two hours as usual and immediately after swimming or exercise.

No sunscreen is completely waterproof or resistant perspiration. Sun cream manufacturers are not allowed to use these terms because they can confuse or mislead consumers. If you see a sunscreen marketed as a waterproof or the sweaty test, avoid buying it and consider reporting the manufacturer to the FDA.

Mineral and chemical sunscreens are both effective, but contain different active ingredients.

Mineral sunscreens (or physical solar screens) mainly contain titanium dioxide, zinc oxide or both. They often leave a white residue on your skin. Dermatologists may recommend that people with sensitive skin use mineral solar screens because they are often free from hard chemicals.

Chemical sunscreens do not contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. They tend to have a lighter formula than mineral sunscreens and do not leave a white plaster. However, they contain chemicals that can irritate the skin or constitute threats to marine life.

Hybrid sunscreens contain chemicals as well as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Always read the list of active ingredients.

Certain sunscreens are specially formulated for a particular skin type. Reading the label of a product can help you determine if it suits you.

For example, if you have dry skin, you may want a sunscreen that contains additional moisturizers. You may prefer non-comedogenic sunscreens (pore tights) and oil-free if you have oily skin or subject to acne. Sudio screens without perfume and hypoallergenic can be better for sensitive skin. Certain sunscreens are designed for more mature skin.

All solar screens should ideally be wide spectrum, water resistant and have a SPF of 30 or more, but some factors may be more important to consider for different skin tones.

For example, people with lighter skin run a higher risk of sunburn, DNA damage and skin cancer. Individuals with sensitive skin or underlying skin condition can also burn faster. Choosing a sunscreen with an FPF of 50 or more can help protect against harmful UV radiation.

Darker skin can naturally be better protected against UVB rays, but more prone to hyperpigmentation of UVA rays. Useing a wide spectrum sunscreen regularly can help prevent photaging and pigmentation.

The key to maximizing your sunscreen protection is to wear it consistently and apply it correctly. Here are some tips:

• Apply at least 15 minutes before going out: If you wait to be outside, your skin is already exposed and can burn.
• Use enough: Most people apply only 25 to 50% of the amount recommended (about one ounce, or enough to fill a glass of a blow).
• Apply on all exposed skin: Do not forget the top of your feet, the part of your hair and your ears, the neck and the lips.
• Reappropriate every two hours: In the United States, only about a third of people in the United States reappear their sunscreen as recommended.
• Apply a sunscreen daily: Up to 80% of UV rays in the sun can penetrate the clouds.
• Cover your skin evenly: If you use a spray, spray until your skin shines. Then take a minute to rub the sunscreen.
• Check the expiration date: Solar screens can expire about three years after being purchased, which makes them less effective.

Solar screens are designed to prevent sunburn, reduce the probability of skin cancer and reduce premature aging. When you buy a new sunscreen, search for a wide spectrum variety and water resistant with an FPS of 30 or more.

Choose a product that you will feel comfortable carrying every day. Consider the type of sunscreen, its ingredients and your skin type. Talk to a health care provider, such as a certified dermatologist, if you have any questions about choosing the best sunscreen for you.