Texan Magazine
Walk down the sunscreen aisle of any pharmacy, and you’ll likely be overwhelmed by the
choices. SPF 30 or SPF 100? Mineral or chemical? Lotion, spray, stick, or gel? Water-resistant or
sport formula?
With so many options, it’s easy to wonder whether one sunscreen is truly better than another. The
good news is that choosing the right sunscreen doesn’t have to be complicated. Understanding a
few key principles can help you select a product that is safe and effective while fitting your
lifestyle and skin type.
Is Sunscreen Really Necessary?
We love to have fun in the sun, but the sun is a source of several types of ultraviolet (UV)
radiation. Although invisible to the human eye, UV rays penetrate the skin and can cause both
immediate and long-term damage, including skin cancer, premature aging, wrinkles, and age
spots. Those aren’t much fun.
UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skin and accelerate aging. The damage isn’t just cosmetic—it
can also increase the risk of skin cancer, especially melanoma. UVA rays can penetrate through
clouds and glass, so my friend who wears gloves while driving is making a smart choice.
UVB rays primarily affect the outer layers of the skin and are the main cause of sunburn. They
also play a significant role in the development of skin cancer and tend to be strongest during
midday hours.
The SPF (Sun Protection Factor) listed on sunscreen indicates how well a product protects
against UVB rays, but it does not tell you much about UVA protection. For protection against
both, look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
When Am I Most at Risk?
Many people focus on avoiding severe burns, but even moderate daily exposure can contribute to
long-term skin damage. In reality, UV rays are with us all year long—even on cloudy days—and
are intensified when reflected by snow, water, sand, or concrete. You can’t hide! UV protection
should be a year-round habit, not just a summertime precaution.
The UV Index is a useful tool that measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation at a given
location and time. Checking the UV Index before spending time outdoors can help you determine
how much protection you need.
You can also estimate your UV exposure by looking at your shadow. If your shadow is taller than
you are, UV exposure is generally lower. If your shadow is shorter than you are (like at high
noon), UV radiation is high, and extra protection is needed.
The Best Sunscreen Is the One You’ll Actually Use
Consumers often search for the perfect sunscreen, but the most effective sunscreen is the one
you’re willing to apply consistently. That said, there are some helpful guidelines for choosing a
sunscreen that is both effective and safe.
Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens
One of the biggest debates in sun protection involves mineral and chemical sunscreens.
Mineral Sunscreens
Also called physical sunscreens, these products use ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium
dioxide. Mineral sunscreens sit on the skin’s surface and reflect or scatter UV radiation. They are
generally better tolerated by sensitive skin and are often preferred for young children.
Some formulas may leave a white cast or feel heavy, although tinted options are available for
darker skin tones.
According to Joel Fuhrman, MD, “Certain products use nanoparticles of titanium dioxide and
zinc oxide to make the sunscreen more easily absorbed by the skin and therefore more
transparent; there have been concerns that these small particles could penetrate the skin and enter
the bloodstream.” Translation: Avoid mineral products with nanoparticles.
Chemical Sunscreens
Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients that absorb UV radiation before it damages the skin.
They are often preferred for daily use because they spread easily and are invisible on the skin.
Unlike mineral sunscreens that offer immediate protection, chemical sunscreens should be
applied about 15 minutes before sun exposure.
It’s best to avoid chemical sunscreens containing oxybenzone and OMC (octyl
methoxycinnamate), which are among the most concerning ingredients. These compounds are
endocrine disruptors that may interfere with the body’s natural hormones. The coral reefs will
also thank you for avoiding products that contain these ingredients.
Safety Matters
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) publishes an annual sunscreen guide. Out of
approximately 1,700 products reviewed, only about one in four met their standards.
The EWG recommends avoiding spray sunscreens. Not only can they be difficult to apply evenly
and effectively, but there are also concerns about risk to the lungs from inhaling the spray and
contamination with benzene, a known carcinogen.
The organization also recommends avoiding extremely high-SPF products. SPF 30 blocks about
97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. That mere extra percentage point may lead
some people to believe they can stay in the sun much longer than is actually advisable.
Lastly, sunscreens containing vitamin A (retinyl palmitate) are best avoided. Some research
suggests that vitamin A compounds may react with UV radiation in ways that could potentially
increase skin damage.
The EWG website publishes a yearly list of recommended products. This year’s list includes
sunscreens from Badger, Babo Botanicals, All Good, Derma E, and Stream2Sea.
Sunscreen Success
Choose Water Resistance Wisely: If you’ll be swimming, sweating, or exercising
outdoors, choose a water-resistant sunscreen. Labels typically indicate whether
protection lasts for 40 or 80 minutes in water.
No sunscreen is truly waterproof, so reapplication is important after swimming,
heavy sweating, or towel drying, and at least every two hours during prolonged sun
exposure.
Use Enough: Many people apply too little sunscreen. Adults generally need about
one ounce—roughly enough to fill a shot glass—to adequately cover the body.
I confess to being an “under-applier” because I’m often concerned about what I’m
putting on my skin. But I plan to find one recommended by the EWG and
confidently slather away!
Protect Children Early: Children are particularly vulnerable to UV damage
because their skin is more sensitive. Significant sun exposure during childhood can
increase the risk of skin cancer later in life.
Teaching sun-safety habits early can provide protection for a lifetime. Including
common-sense practices like sun-protective clothes and hats, or avoiding the sun
during peak times will serve your child well.
Don’t Miss the Easy-to-Forget Areas: Commonly missed spots include the ears,
lips, neck, back of the hands, tops of the feet, scalp, hairline, and around the eyes.
And has anyone ever had that painfully burned strip of skin around the bathing suit
line? Ouch!
Skin Smart
Some plant oils offer a small amount of natural sun protection. Calendula oil, for
example, has demonstrated an SPF of around 15 in some studies. While plant oils
should never be relied upon as primary sun protection, calendula can be soothing
for sunburned skin.
Aloe vera is another well-known remedy for sunburn. Topical products containing
vitamin C, vitamin E, and niacinamide may also help neutralize oxidative damage
and reduce inflammation after sun exposure.
The Bottom Line (Not a Pun on the Coppertone Girl)
Choosing the best sunscreen comes down to a few essential principles: select a
broad-spectrum product, use at least SPF 30, match the formula to your skin type
(oily, dry, sensitive, or darker tone), and apply it generously and consistently.
Sunscreen is more than a beauty product—it’s one of the most effective tools
available for preventing premature aging and reducing the risk of skin cancer.
Your future skin will thank you.
Abby Kurth, MPH, MS Nutrition, is a Clinical Nutritionist and Wellness Coach.
Educational information and a link to recommended sunscreens through Fullscript
is available at abbykurthnutrition.coach.
