I’ve always been into my skincare. Ask any girl with hormonal acne, and I’m sure she’ll tell you the same. The desire to find that one wonder product started in my teenage years, where I’d spend hours lusting over the just-launched cleansers and shiny pots of moisturizers in the monthly glossies.
Coming from Panama and South America, where the weather is hot, and suffering from acne-prone skin, it hasn’t been an easy journey to keep my skin at bay. Based on my experience in manufacturing skincare for worldwide brands and formulating, researching, and building skincare products, I have come to understand why some products set on our skin better than others.
Since then, I’ve been lucky enough to try some of the best skincare products on the market and have created a routine that works for my skin and its needs. But I have to admit that my routine was distinctly lacking in one skincare product until a few years ago: SPF.
When you spend so much time chatting with celebrity facialists and dermatologists about the best ways to care for your complexion, it soon becomes clear that skin experts unanimously agree that SPF is an integral part of any successful skincare routine. Yet so many of us choose to ignore it.
Personally, I think there are two main reasons for our hesitance around using a daily SPF. Firstly, in places where the weather is consistently warm, it can be easy to become complacent and not prioritize sun protection as much as we should. Secondly—between UVA and UVB protection, broad spectrums, and star ratings—knowing what to look for when choosing an SPF can feel like a bit of a minefield, to say the least.
So to help debunk the myths around SPF and get to the root of exactly why it is so important, I caught up with some skincare experts for the full lowdown. Keep scrolling for a foolproof guide to choosing the best sun protection for you and to shop the best SPF products out there.
Let’s start with the basics, shall we? SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and is a measure of the amount of ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation protection. Simply put, the higher the factor number, the higher the UVB protection.
UVA, on the other hand, stands for ultraviolet A radiation and can be measured by the star rating on sunscreens. The higher the star rating, the better the protection—with a five-star rating being the best.
If a sunscreen refers to itself as “broad spectrum,” this means that it offers both UVA and UVB protection. However, if sunscreen has both an SPF rating and a star rating, it will protect you against both types of rays.
Best SPF Products Reviewed
bareMinerals Complexion Rescue® Brightening Under Eye Concealer SPF 25
USD $28.00 (Shop Now)
PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50 Sunscreen
Ideal for all skin types, the PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50 Sunscreen from Supergoop! is a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula that offers high-level protection without leaving a greasy residue. Enriched with sunflower extract, which is rich in antioxidants, it nourishes the skin while shielding it from environmental damage. This sunscreen is also water- and sweat-resistant, making it perfect for active individuals. It hydrates the skin effectively and provides up to 80 minutes of water and sweat resistance, ensuring you stay protected during all your outdoor activities.
Ideal for: All skin types, thanks to its lightweight, fast-absorbing formula that provides high-level protection without greasiness. Suitable for active individuals needing water- and sweat-resistant sun protection.
USD $12.00 (Shop Now)
iS Clinical Extreme Protect Treatment SPF 30
A must-have for those with aging skin concerns, the iS Clinical Extreme Protect Treatment SPF 30 combines advanced hydration with potent antioxidant protection. This product is formulated with a proprietary blend of Extremozyme® technology and botanicals, helping to repair and protect the skin from environmental stressors. It offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, making it a comprehensive choice for daily use. This innovative formula features microfine zinc oxide, micro-encapsulated sunscreens, and powerful botanical antioxidants. Clinically proven to repair and protect collagen and cell DNA, the Extremozyme technology ensures this broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen provides the ultimate moisturizing protection.
Recommended for: Aging skin concerns, offering advanced hydration and potent antioxidant protection. Ideal for daily use with its broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.
USD $72.00 (Shop Now)
SPF Vitamin Body Milk Travel Size
The SPF Vitamin Body Milk Travel Size by OZKIA is formulated with Nano-Free Zinc, Titanium, Pro-Vitamin D3, Astaxanthin, and Super-berries. This beautifully lightweight, quick-absorbing mineral SPF 30 body oil provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection without chemical sunscreens. Its soothing, natural, marine-friendly formula features a delightful coconut fragrance and supplies Pro-Vitamin D3 along with additional antioxidant, firming, and calming properties.
Ideal for: All skin types, especially those preferring mineral SPF protection without chemical sunscreens. Provides soothing and lightweight protection with added antioxidant benefits.
USD $15.00 (Shop Now)
Safer Skin SPF 30 Duo
USD $79.00 (Shop Now)
Carmex Pineapple Mint Flavour SPF15 Lip Balm
USD $3.50 (Shop Now)
Cetaphil Daily Defence Moisturiser SPF50+
Cetaphil’s Daily Defence Moisturiser SPF50+ is ideal for those with dry or sensitive skin. This moisturizer offers high-level SPF 50+ protection while providing long-lasting hydration. Enriched with glycerin and panthenol, it effectively locks in moisture and soothes the skin. Its non-comedogenic formula ensures it won’t clog pores, making it suitable for daily use under makeup. Designed for daily skincare routines, Cetaphil’s Facial Moisturizer is crafted to shield against sun exposure, suitable for all skin types. Its lightweight texture includes SPF 50 UVA/UVB protection, helping to preserve the skin’s natural barrier and defend against environmental pollutants. Infused with soybean oil, it deeply hydrates, leaving skin feeling soft and smooth.
Recommended for: Dry or sensitive skin, offering SPF 50+ protection and long-lasting hydration with non-comedogenic ingredients that won’t clog pores.
USD $24.99(Shop Now)
Tatcha Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen SPF 35
USD $63.00 (Shop Now)
Honest Beauty CCC Clean Corrective With Vitamin C Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Recommended for: All skin types, combining moisturizer, SPF protection, and light foundation benefits. Infused with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid for brightening and moisturizing effects.
USD $26.99 (Shop Now)
Why SPF is Essential Year-Round
It’s easy to forget about SPF during the colder months, but UV rays can still cause damage even on cloudy or overcast days. UVA rays, in particular, can penetrate through glass and clouds, leading to premature aging and increased risk of skin cancer. Incorporating SPF into your daily routine ensures that your skin is always protected, regardless of the weather.
Dermatologists recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day. This level of protection helps to shield the skin from both UVA and UVB rays, reducing the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and early signs of aging such as wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.
Expert Tips for Using SPF
To get the most out of your SPF products, follow these expert tips:
- Apply Generously: Most people don’t use enough sunscreen. You should apply about a teaspoon of product for your face and a shot glass amount for your body.
- Reapply Regularly: Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating.
- Don’t Forget Your Lips and Eyes: Use a lip balm with SPF and wear sunglasses to protect the delicate skin around your eyes.
- Check Expiry Dates: Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time, so be sure to replace it regularly.
Integrating SPF into your skincare routine is non-negotiable for maintaining healthy, youthful skin. With the array of products available, it’s easier than ever to find a sunscreen that fits your needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a hydrating formula, a matte finish, or a multi-tasking product, there’s an SPF out there for you. Remember, the best skincare routine is one that protects your skin every day, and SPF is a crucial part of that protection. So, make SPF your best friend and keep your skin glowing and safe all year round.