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11 New Sunscreens To Buy From Your Favorite Skincare Brands, According To Dermatologists
Plus, tips for screening any 'screen before you buy.
When you hear people say sunscreen, you probably think of the obvious brands lining the shelves at the drugstore or Sephora.
But you're probably starting to notice more SPF options out there made by brands you normally go to for moisturizer, serums, or foundation. And no, I'm not talking about SPF-infused makeup (which often has an SPF of 15, below the dermatologist-recommended 30). I'm talking straight-up sunscreen.
A rise in sunscreen launches from beauty brands might make sense given recent research into consumer behavior: According to one study published in 2022, the spread of the pandemic boosted interest in skincare products (including sunscreen) and dampened interest in makeup products like lipstick and foundation.
Meet the expert: Aanand Geria, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Verona, New Jersey.
Rest assured that sunscreens from a makeup or skincare label are still subject to the same FDA approval process as all other sunscreens. "The FDA's testing and approval process is conducted to prove the product's SPF factor, water resistance, and broad-spectrum protection," says Aanand Geria, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Verona, New Jersey.
But before you buy, here are a few dermatologist-recommended factors to keep in mind to make sure you're getting the coverage your skin needs.
- Look for broad-spectrum protection: A broad-spectrum sunscreen ensures your skin is protected against both UVB and UVA rays. UVA rays can cause premature aging while UVB rays can cause sunburns, and both types of rays increase the risk of skin cancer, says Dr. Geria.
- Aim for SPF 30 or higher: SPF 30 is the minimum number recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology. But if you have fair skin or a history of skin cancer, consider a sunscreen with a higher SPF level, Dr. Geria says.
- Choose a water-resistant formula: If you plan to be in the water or sweat, look for water-resistant sunscreen that can withstand moisture for at least 40 minutes, Dr. Geria says.
- If you have sensitive skin, consider a mineral sunscreen: Mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which form a skin barrier and reflect UV rays, per the MD Anderson Cancer Center. "These sunscreens are less likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, making them a better option for sensitive skin users," says Dr. Geria. On the contrary, chemical sunscreens contain chemicals, such as avobenzone and oxybenzone, that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, Dr. Geria says. The upside? "These sunscreens usually have a thinner consistency and are easier to apply evenly."
Now that you know what to look out for, here are some sunscreens from highly-rated skincare and beauty brands to shop.
April Benshosan is a New York City-based writer and editor. She graduated with a Master’s degree in Publishing from Pace University, and her byline appears on LIVESTRONG.com, Eat This, Not That!, Business Insider, MSN, Yahoo!, OK! Magazine, and Travel Squire. In her free time, you can catch April lifting weights, spending time with her pup, or planning her next vacation.
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