Simple tips for choosing a SPF

I know, I know - you probably hear this all too often, but sunscreen really is necessary everyday. Even on cloudy days. UV rays penetrate cloud cover and can still damage the skin.  There are crucial things that I look for in a sunscreen.

1. Titanium Dioxide and Zinc oxide - I always reach for a SPF with titanium and zinc oxide in it.  I have been using physical blocks, rather than chemical blocks, for years. I’ve suffered from acne and a SPF with these physical components (titanium and zinc) will stay on the surface of the skin, rather than seep into your skin. Chemical suncreens (those containing octinoxate, octisalate and oxybenzone) will actually penetrate deep into the skin, which could cause the skin to break out. Physical blocks can sometimes give off a pasty, white look, but there are some really good ones now that are completely inconspicuous.  Cereve has a good one that can be picked up most places.

2. Stick or lotion- I don’t use the sprays because of their high chemical levels, which is especially concerning with kids’ naturally delicate skin. If I can’t find one in the SPF aisle, they are often found in the baby and kid aisles. Neutrogena’s version has long been my single go-to for my kids, especially their faces, and it’s really not too difficult to rub in. This neutrogena stick is super easy to apply onto kids

3.  SPF rating- while it is great to have a rating on sunscreen, I typically don’t pay attention to it because I am usually reapplying SPF every hour or so, especially on my kids.  The difference between SPF 20 and SPF 80 is minimal if one reapplies frequently. More important is the percentage of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide in the sunscreen, which is what guides my choice. The higher, the better.

By sticking to these 3 points, I can eliminate spending too much time finding a SPF that works for us.  I can quickly take a look at the ingredients and identify the chemicals I want to avoid (octinoxate, octisalate and oxybenzone are the most common ones).  I reach for sticks and lotions and don’t worry too much about the rating because I frequently reapply - especially during water activities.   The combination of a physical sunscreen, shade and rash guards keeps my kids well protected when they are playing outside.

Hope this helps you to pick out the best sunscreen for you and your family : )