How to choose the best sunscreen for summer or your upcoming beach vacation
Whether the temperature is beginning to rise or you are preparing for an upcoming beach vacation that will incorporate a lot of fun in the sun, it is a perfect time to show off your beautiful skin! While protecting your skin is important every day, sunscreen is especially critical for preventing premature aging and skin cancer when you are spending extra time in the sun. At Skin & Vein Institute in Encinitas, California, Dr. Amanda Lloyd is here to help patients find the best high-quality sunscreen for their specific needs.
Choosing a high-quality sunscreen
Unfortunately, not all sunscreens are created equally. In fact, a Consumer Reports investigation found that nearly one-third of 73 popular sunscreens tested failed to deliver even half of the SPF on their labels. To ensure that you are getting the protection you need, we recommend:
- Opt for broad-spectrum protection: The sun emits harmful UVA and UVB rays, so it is important to choose a sunscreen that has broad-spectrum coverage that protects against both.
- Choose water-resistant sunscreen if you will be sweating or swimming: Water-resistant sunscreen can be labeled as resistant to the water for 40 or 80 minutes. It is important to reapply at the time listed on the label.
- Use creams or lotions instead of sprays: There’s no denying that spray sunscreens are convenient, but they, unfortunately, tend to lead to less coverage, while lotions and creams provide a more uniform protective coating.
- Consider your skin type: If you have dry skin, look for sunscreens that have moisturizing ingredients like aloe and glycerin, and avoid formulations that contain alcohol, which can be drying. If you have oily skin, lightweight sunscreens are best.
- Always check the expiration date: A typical shelf life is three years when it comes to sunscreen. If your bottle has expired, it’s time to find a replacement!
Questions about which sunscreen is right for you?
When it comes to sunscreen, there is no one-size-fits-all option that will work the best for everyone. Dr. Amanda Lloyd can talk with you about the best sunscreen for your unique skin. To schedule your consultation at the Skin & Vein Institute in Encinitas, call (760) 452-2080 today!