Best sunscreen for different skin types

UV protection is important for any skin type. When you are out soaking up the sun’s rays you need to be protecting your skin with sun cream. It is important that you know what the best sun cream is for your skin.

When you are applying your UV protection, it is crucial that you don’t forget your face. Sunscreen for the face can prove tricky, especially if you are looking for an SPF for oily skin. You might be left wondering what the best sunscreen for oily skin is and how to ensure it doesn’t cause a breakout. A face moisturiser with an SPF is usually a popular choice.

The best sunscreen for sensitive skin usually contains SPF50 which has the ability to provide you with the ultimate protection.

When it comes to dry skin, the ideal sunscreen typically contains moisturising properties that help to rehydrate your skin whilst protecting it. Comedogenic sunscreen is usually advised due to its ability to provide your skin with hydration. Non-comedogenic is recommended for oily skin as it won’t block the pores or worsen acne.

No matter your skin type, it is important that you are protecting yourself from the sun to prevent damage and also lower the risk of skin cancer.

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What are the different types of UV protection?

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is typically a topical cream that you rub into your skin to protect yourself from the sun. Sunscreen filters the sun’s UV rays.

Everyone should be applying sunscreen every day, even when it isn’t sunny. Up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays reach the earth, even on cloudy days. ^[1]

You should include it in your skincare routine.

Sunblock

Sunblock sits on top of the skin and works by reflecting the sun’s rays away from the skin. It has the ability to physically block the sun’s harmful UV rays from penetrating the skin.

Sunblocks usually contain either zinc oxide or titanium oxide, protecting you from both UVA and UVB rays. Sunblock isn’t usually a popular choice for protection as it can also leave a white cast on the skin.

SPF skincare

SPF skincare is a product that you use on your face and body such as a moisturiser that contains an SPF.

Using an SPF protects you against UVA and UVB rays from the sun. Most people opt for a moisturiser that includes SPF due to the lightweight formula. Using an SPF in your skincare is a brilliant way to protect your skin from the sun as they are perfect for everyday use underneath your makeup. Many SPF moisturisers also have anti-ageing ingredients.

Understanding SPF

Many people are still unaware what the different numbers do when it comes to SPF. When you are selecting your sun cream it is important that you select the correct SPF.

SPF 15

SPF15 usually filters around 93% of the sun’s UVB rays. It allows 7 out of 100 photons through the skin. If you normally start to get sunburn after 10 minutes then wearing an SPF will allow you to stay in the sun for around 150 minutes before you get burnt. ^[2]

The NHS recommends at least a factor 30, however, some protection is better than none.

SPF 30

SPF 30 has the ability to block around 97% of the UVB rays that come from the sun. It allows 3 out of 100 photons through to the skin. By doubling the amount of protection in comparison to SPF 15 it would also provide you with twice the amount of protection. ^[2]

SPF 50

SPF 50 blocks out roughly 98% of the sun's UVB rays, blocking three times the amount of radiation that an SPF15 would. It is important that when you are wearing sunscreen, even if it is SPF 50, that you are applying it liberally. You must also reapply it if you have been in the water.^[2]

Best sunscreen for dry skin

CeraVE Facial Moisturising Lotion

CeraVE Facial Moisturising Lotion is lightweight, non-comedogenic and also fragrance free. It is one of the best facial sunscreens if you suffer from dry skin. The lotion contains 3 essential ceramides, allowing your skin to feel soothed and hydrated.

Nivea Sun Moisturising Sun Lotion

Nivea Sun Moisturising Sun Lotion is another one of our top picks for dry skin. It provides you with sun protection whilst moisturising your skin. It offers you long lasting protection against both UVA and UVB rays alongside keeping your skin hydrated.

Nivea Sun Moisturising After Sun Lotion With Aloe Vera

Nivea Sun Moisturising After Sun Lotion With Aloe Vera is another brilliant physical sunscreen that is great for dry skin. It uses aloe vera to act as a moisturiser, preventing skin dryness. The lotion also contains avocado oil which helps to maintain the skin's elasticity.

Best sunscreen for oily skin

Altruist Sunscreen

Altruist Sunscreen is ideal for anyone who has oily skin. It absorbs into your skin fast, with its non-sticky formula it is just like a moisturiser. It won't leave you with clogged pores or a heavy feeling on your skin.

Uvistat Sun Cream

Uvistat Sun Cream is another form of sun protection perfect for oily skin. It is completely fragrance-free and has a non-greasy formula. It will protect you from the sun whilst leaving you feeling like you have nothing on. The sun cream can be applied to any part of your body including your head, face and neck.

Purified Daily SPF30 Moisturiser

Purified Daily SPF30 Moisturiser is a perfect way to protect yourself from the sun and is ideal if you have oily skin. It is non-comedogenic, helping to reduce oil and shine whilst providing you with 24 hours of hydration and sun protection.

Sunscreen for acne prone skin

Sunsense Daily Face

Sunsense Daily Face is the perfect sun protection for you if you have acne prone skin. It is ideal for your face, neck and chest. You can even apply it underneath your make up. Alongside protecting you from UVA and UVB rays, it also contains vitamin E. Vitamin E helps to improve the appearance of age spots, fine lines and wrinkles.

Olay Total Effects 7-in-1 Day Moisturiser SPF15

Olay Total Effects 7-in-1 Day Moisturiser is another perfect SPF protection for your acne prone skin. It is a non-greasy formula and it also has 7 benefits for fabulous, glowing skin. It absorbs quickly into your skin and provides you with UV protection.

Sunscreen for sensitive skin

Solero Ultra Sensitive Sun Lotion SPF50+

If you have sensitive skin then Solero Ultra Sensitive Sun Lotion SPF50+ is a great option for you. The formula doesn’t contain any alcohol, fragrance or colourants.

Avene Hydrance Rich-UV Hydrating Cream SPF30

Another brilliant sun protection for sensitive skin is Avene Hydrance Rich-UV Hydrating Cream SPF30. It also contains Avene Thermal Spring Water that has anti-irritating and soothing properties.

No matter what skin type you have, keeping yourself protected from the sun is important. Ideally you should aim to apply an SPF every day. It doesn’t matter if it is cloudy outside, your skin still needs to be protected.

Identifying your skin type will help you to understand which sunscreen is the best for you. Once you know that, you will be able to protect your skin from the sun.