If you put anything on your face today - make it sunscreen. Summer is finally here, which means more time spent outside, at the beach, and soaking up the sun. It's a given that sunscreen is an integral part of your skincare routine, but finding the right face sunscreen is often harder than it should be. 

We're covering what to look for in a good facial sunscreen and how to choose the right one based on your skin type. 

Face Sunscreen Vs. Regular Sunscreen - What's the Difference?

Some sun protection is specifically formulated for the body, while others are made for the face. While they both do the same thing, protect your skin from harmful UV rays, the formulas are slightly different. 

Many facial sunscreens are created with specific ingredients that will not clog pores. Compared to the skin on our bodies, our face is more susceptible to breakouts. Sunscreens marked "non-comedogenic" should help prevent breakouts. Face sunscreen also looks and feels less greasy on the skin to keep you shine-free and comfortable throughout the day. 

What to Look For in a Face Sunscreen

Not all sunscreen is created equal. When shopping for sunscreen, there are two important labels to be on the lookout for. 

- Make sure you use a "broad spectrum" sunscreen.

- Pick a sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30. 

Broad-spectrum sunscreen means that it protects your skin from UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. Both UVA and UVB rays can cause skin cancer. 

Key Ingredients to Look For and What to Avoid

Keep an eye out for the following ingredients: 

Zinc Oxide - Mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide offers a wide range of UVA and UVB protection.

Niacinamide - If you have sensitive skin, this B vitamin works exceptionally well to calm redness. 

You may want to avoid these common ingredients: 

Fragrance - Facial sunscreen with added fragrance can be irritating for some people. If you have sensitive skin, avoid sunscreens that include fragrance. 

Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octisalate, & Avobenzone - While these chemicals aren't considered toxic, they're still unnecessary chemicals that you may want to avoid using. Facial sunscreen formulated with these ingredients is often associated with higher allergy risks. 

Top 3 Sunscreen Recommendations For Your Skin Type

Oily Skin - If you have oily skin, look for facial sunscreens that have a matte finish. Lighter, silky formulas will feel less heavy and prevent your skin from getting shiny during the day. 

Tatcha's non-irritating and dermatologist-tested Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35 PA+++ is a fan favorite for oily skin. This broad-spectrum sun protection has a mattifying effect each time you apply. The formula helps blur pores, smooth skin texture, and keep the sine to a minimum. 

Dry Skin - If you have dry skin, look for a face sunscreen made with hydrating ingredients like antioxidants and plant-based moisturizers. 

The Cucumber Organic Classic Face Sunscreen SPF 30 by COOLA combines sun protection and hydration. Antioxidant-rich nutrients include raspberry seed oil, meadowfoam seed oil, and prickly pear extract to help nourish the skin while fighting free radicals. 

Sensitive Skin - When your skin is more sensitive, a mineral sunscreen (compared to chemical sunscreen) will likely feel the best on your skin. Mineral formulas are made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that sit on top of your skin to protect you from the sun's rays. 

Dermalogica's Invisible Physical Defense Sunscreen SPF 30 is made with mineral particles that reflect UVA rays. The formula is made with good-for-your-skin ingredients like green tea and non-nano zinc oxide to protect, soothe, and calm even the most sensitive skin types. 

 

Sunburns, sun damage, premature aging, and skin cancer are no joke. Whether you're lounging by the pool or running your daily errands, always add sunscreen to your morning skincare routine. Don't forget; it's always best to apply your sunscreen 15 minutes before going out in the sun.