Below we review The 8 Best Sunscreens for 2023.
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Working as both an aesthetician and a physician, I understand the importance of protecting the skin from the harmful effects of the sun for both aesthetic and medical reasons.
Medically, protecting the skin from the harmful rays of the sun significantly reduces the risk of sunburn and consequently skin cancer.
Aesthetically, protecting against UV rays help reduce photo damage in the form of fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. Note that 90% of extrinsic aging is caused by UV rays (www.skincancerfoundation.org , www.ncbi.non.nih.gov).
Whatever your skin goals are, sun protection plays a huge role in maintaining the overall health and beauty of your skin.
Sunscreens play a crucial role in maintaining the health and radiance of our skin. In this blog, I will provide you with an overview of seven of the best sunscreens available in both mineral and chemical formulations. Whether you prefer a physical or chemical sunscreen, these medical and professional grade options are highly effective in protecting your skin from damaging UV rays. Let’s JUMP in!
- EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 (Mineral/Chemical):
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen is a hybrid sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection while nurturing your skin. EltaMD has gained cult status as one of the most trusted and recommended sun care brands on the market. This particular product is the highest rated medical grade sunscreen online with thousands of 5 star reviews on authorized online physician retailers like Dermstore and Skinstore. This hybrid sunscreen is formulated with both zinc oxide and octinoxate, giving us the best of both worlds combining physical and chemical compounds. This lightweight and non-greasy sunscreen is ideal for acne-prone and sensitive skin, as it is free from harsh chemicals and fragrance. It also contains sodium hyaluronate that moisturizes and lactic acid that refines the skin. I recommend this sunscreen to all my patients especially those with acne prone and sensitive skin.
- SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 (Mineral):
SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 is a tinted physical sunscreen fluid with 100% mineral filters that provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, while promoting natural radiance and a more even skin tone. This weightless sunscreen is water-resistant for 40 minutes as well. Clinical studies have shown that this sunscreen increases skin defenses and resistance to UV and heat stress. For those of you who do not use chemical sunscreens, this is an excellent choice for you! When applied properly, there is no white cast. This is my go to sunscreen post procedure as it’s been tested post procedure even on ablative procedures
- Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 (Chemical):
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 is a transparent, lightweight sunscreen that works well for all skin types. This chemical sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection and doubles as a makeup primer. Its oil-free and scent-free formula make it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin or a preference for weightless coverage. This is my favorite sunscreen for the days I wear makeup because it’s light weight and invisible!
- ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Daily Lightweight Mineral SPF 50+ Sunscreen (mineral):
Eryfotona Actinica is a fast-absorbing, ultralight emulsion providing all-mineral broad spectrum sun protection, Its innovative formula contains DNA Repairsomes®, naturally occurring enzymes which are clinically proven to repair existing sun damage, Eryfotona Actinica is the perfect lightweight sunscreen for all day use, every day.
This is a dermatologist favorite mineral sunscreen that blends well on all skin types. I haven’t tried it personally but all my patients (that I have recommended it to) have fallen deeply in love with this product!
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Fluid Facial Sunscreen (Chemical):
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Fluid Facial Sunscreen is a chemical sunscreen known for its exceptional performance. It has gained a cult following because it’s an amazing product with a great price point! It contains a combination of advanced filters that effectively shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays. This fast-absorbing, non-comedogenic formula provides a matte finish, making it suitable for oily or acne-prone skin.
- Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield (Mineral):
Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield is a unique mineral sunscreen in powder form. With its convenient brush applicator, it offers on-the-go sun protection and touch-ups. This water-resistant sunscreen provides broad-spectrum coverage and is perfect for individuals who desire a lightweight, non-greasy option. It’s hard to apply it evenly because of its powdery nature so I recommend only using it for touch ups or reapplication over a previously applied sunscreen cream.
I personally have one of these in my handbag at all times. I only use it for touch ups on days I find myself wearing makeup on a hot day. I love the extra coverage and I also love that it comes in different shades.
- Obagi Sun Shield Matte Broad Spectrum SPF 50
(Mineral/Chemical):
A sheer sunscreen lotion that provides both UVA and UVB protection.
Its lightweight formula features broad spectrum solar protection and absorbs quickly for a non-greasy, matte finish. Vitamin C brightens the complexion while ubiquinone promotes firmness and neutralizes free radicals.
This is great for people with oily skin and for people that want to brighten or lighten up pigmentation.
- VI Derm SPF 50 Daily UV Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen (Mineral/Chemical)
This broad-spectrum UVA and UVB shields against skin-aging rays as it soothes and corrects sun damage.
This lightweight SPF blends chemical sunscreen filters with physical UV blockers for broad-spectrum defense. It has a sheer, comfortable finish that’s so lightweight, you’ll want to wear it daily. It consist of a hydrating botanical blend of Aloe, Pueraria Lobata Root and Chamomile that helps keep inflammation at bay, while the antioxidant green tea reverses pre-existing sun damage. This is tested post procedure especially after chemical peels like infamous VI Peel.
Choosing the right sunscreen is crucial for protecting your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Whether you opt for a mineral or chemical sunscreen, these seven options mentioned above provide excellent sun protection for everyday use. Remember to apply sunscreen generously and reapply every 2 hours of sun exposure. Prioritize your skin’s health and beauty by incorporating sunscreen into your daily skincare routine. ‘The best sunscreen is the one that you will use’, so please find a sunscreen you’re comfortable using and stick to it! And don’t forget to use added sun protection measures like the use of sun protective clothing and the act of seeking shade!