What is the number one can’t-live-without product for any dermatologist and skincare expert? Simple answer: sunscreen. Most of us spent our childhood slathered in sticky SPF during days at the beach or by the pool, but went completely unprotected the rest of the time. Thankfully, we know now that skipping sunscreen, even on cloudy and cold days, is a big no-no. And the formulations of our skincare routine MVP have come a long way in terms of safety and wearability. Here’s what you need to know:
Why You Need to Wear SPF Daily
Whether you realize it or not, you end up exposed to a whole lot of sun throughout the day. From hopping in the car to run an errand to walking your dog to sitting by a window at your desk—your skin is constantly exposed to UV rays, even when you’re not intentionally laying out in the sun. Even cloudy days can leave you with sun damage. Simply, the sun never takes a break. So the only way to really ensure your skin is staying safe is to make applying sunscreen a part of your regular routine.
Thankfully, many formulas aren’t thick, chalky, and greasy feeling like they used to be. And they’re packed with good-for-your-skin ingredients that enhance the rest of your skincare routine. Tinted versions for your face even allow you to skip foundation and still show off glowy, even skin.
When and How to Apply and Reapply
The simplest way to get into the routine of applying sunscreen every day is to make it the final step in your morning skincare lineup. Hydrating formulas can even take the place of moisturizer. It’s important to make sure you’re applying the right amount to get the maximum level of protection: one teaspoon on your face and neck and one ounce on your body. It may seem like too much at first, but just keep massaging it into your skin until it’s fully blended.
Adding sunscreen in as the last step in routine is only the beginning. You still need to reapply your sunscreen every two hours to really protect your skin. Of course, applying sunscreen over a full face of makeup isn’t ideal, so try tapping it onto your skin with a beauty sponge throughout the day to shield your skin and keep your makeup looking flawless. Then, touch up your body anywhere your clothes aren’t covering, making sure to get the hard-to-reach areas.
Key safety tip:
Proper application—and reapplication—is key to full protection, even more so than the SPF number. If you’re not using enough sunscreen and you’re not reapplying throughout the day, the UV rays can penetrate whatever product you have on and cause damage. So staying diligent is a massive help!
Mineral Sunscreen vs. Chemical Sunscreen
Sticking to a solid sun care routine is all about finding the right sunscreen for you. That way, you’ll actually enjoy wearing it daily. There are two categories to choose from: mineral (or physical) and chemical.
- Mineral Sunscreen The active ingredients in mineral sunscreen, also known as physical sunscreen, are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These formulas actually create a shield on the surface of your skin to reflect the UV rays away from your skin. They are very gentle and work best for sensitive skin
- Chemical Sunscreen The main ingredients in chemical sunscreens are oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate. They work by penetrating the top layers of your skin to absorb the UV rays, stopping them from harming your skin.
Choosing the Best Sunscreen for You
Looking for a broad spectrum sunscreen, in mineral or chemical formulas, is best. This means they protect against both UVA and UVB rays. And minimum of SPF 30 is a must as well. Then, choosing between mineral and chemical is essential.
The active ingredients used in chemical sunscreen formulations have been shown to absorb into the bloodstream after one use, and the health implications of this are being studied. That’s why Ever chooses to formulate without these chemicals.
If you would rather use a sunscreen that is proven to be safe, opt for a mineral SPF. EVER’s DAYLIGHT Radiance Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 32 with LSR10® is formulated with hyaluronic acid to hydrate skin, vitamin C to brighten, and LSR10 to fight signs of aging. It also comes in clear and tinted shades.
DAYLIGHT Radiance Tinted Moisturizer SPF 32
$45.00
Smooth the appearance of lines, while it helps to firm, hydrate and protect to reveal luminous, beautiful skin. Available in Clear or 5 sheer coverage shades to match any skin tone. Product Details: 30 ml / 1 fl. oz.This multitasking formula… read more
And EVER’s LAVISH Skin Perfecting Mineral Body Sunscreen SFP 30 deeply hydrates the skin while creating a glowy, flawless finish thanks to light reflecting particles. Apply it every single day, throughout the day, to see firmer, more radiant skin over time.
