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First, I have a confession. I haven’t worn sunscreen for a long time. For skin care enthusiasts, this is almost sacrilegious. As it turns out, not wearing sunscreen made the rest of my routine ineffective, especially since I was suffering from hyperpigmentation. Now I can’t start my day without it. And neither should you.
Luckily, sunscreen just went through a major rebranding. Clean sunscreen, once synonymous with streaky white casts, is finally a fun addition to your summer skincare routine. Whether you’re switching to a clean sunscreen or looking for a new favorite, this roundup of the best clean sunscreens will steer you in the right direction.
Featured image by Michelle Nash.
Why choose a clean sunscreen?
Did you know that any kind of sunburn is a sign of skin damage? Luckily, self-tanners have also had a chic makeover. But what happens to the skin under the sun?
Wearing sunscreen is your best defense against skin cancer and other types of skin damage. It also helps prevent fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and sun damage by physically or chemically protecting yourself from UV rays and carcinogens.
So how do you find a good one? As more “clean” sunscreen options hit the shelves, I spoke up. Dr Michelle Henrywe asked a New York City dermatologist to clarify what you should look for in a sunscreen. According to dermatologists, these are the best clean sunscreens.
What is a clean sunscreen?
The main concern with unclean sunscreens is that we still don’t know exactly how some of the ingredients work or whether they have long-term harmful side effects.
“The word clean is not a term regulated by the FDA,” Dr. Henry told me. “Typically, when a company calls itself a clean sunscreen, it’s a sunscreen that doesn’t contain oxybenzone or octinoxate.”
According to recent researchSome ingredients commonly found in chemical sunscreens can be hormone disruptors or cause skin allergies. Many are toxic to coral reefs and marine life.
Avoid the following ingredients:
- oxybenzone
- enzacamene
- Padimate O
- octinoxate
- homosalat
Instead, clean sunscreens use zinc oxide. It is a broad-spectrum filter that protects your skin from UVA rays, without nanoparticles or toxins, creating a physical blocker that literally provides a barrier between your skin and the sun.
What is the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens?
According to Dr. Henry, “Chemical sunscreens are made with synthetic ingredients, while mineral sunscreens are made with natural ingredients such as zinc and titanium dioxide.”
The breakdown is as follows:
- Mineral sunscreens (sometimes called physical sunscreens) sit on the surface of your skin and reflect sunlight and UV rays.
- Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays or sunlight.
Should I choose a chemical sunscreen or a mineral sunscreen?
Both physical and chemical sunscreens are effective and clean. However, some skin may react differently. “Ask your dermatologist,” says Dr. Henry. “However, physical sunscreens tend to be a little better for people with sensitive skin.”
Benefits of chemical sunscreens
- Less risk of white cast
- Less likely to sweat or rub
- It will take about 20 minutes to start working.
Benefits of mineral sunscreen
- Start working now
- Good for sensitive skin too
- Contains few sensitive ingredients
How to choose the best clean sunscreen
When shopping for sunscreen, consider where sunscreen fits into your daily life. Do you wear makeup over it? The last step in your morning lineup?
Look for materials that:
- Moisturizing ingredients: ceramide, glycerin, hyaluronic acid
- Antioxidant-rich oils: squalane, jojoba oil, shea butter, vitamin E
- Calming ingredients: niacinamide, aloe vera
And choose one with at least SPF 30, says Dr. Henry.
“I, along with the American Academy of Dermatology, recommend SPF 30 for daily use and SPF 50 if you’ll be outdoors for more than an hour,” says Dr. Henry. “Remember to reapply every two hours.”
best clean mineral sunscreen
When purchasing mineral sunscreens, choose light natural ingredients that are not too heavy and carry zinc oxide without leaving a film on your skin.
Products that contain moisturizing factors like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and other moisturizers can also help minimize the chance of white casts.
best clean chemical sunscreen
When purchasing chemical sunscreens, it’s important to make sure the only chemicals they contain are those that block UV rays. Also look for soothing ingredients to prevent irritation.
Clean sunscreen that is perfect for your body
For your body, it is important to choose a clean sunscreen that can withstand not only water and sweat, but also wind and rain. Bonus points if it shines throughout.
best pretty tinted sunscreen
Dr. Henry says tinted sunscreens are just as effective as other sunscreens. “SPF ratings for tinted sunscreens are reliable. Tinted sunscreens often contain iron oxide, which may also help protect against blue light.”
Source: Camille Styles – camillestyles.com
