Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin

By now most understand the importance of applying sunscreen when outdoors. Doing so will protect your skin from harmful UV rays which can cause burns, premature aging, and various skin cancers. But If you suffer from sensitive skin orare prone to skin irritation, you may be reluctant to use sunscreen. Many sunscreens contain chemical fillers, fragrances, preservatives, and oils that may irritate your skin.

What is SPF

Before we look at what sunscreens are best for sensitive skin, we need to have a proper understanding of SPF or Sun Protection Factor. SPF is the measure of how much radiation is required to burn the skin. Many have the misconception SPF measures time. If your skin would normally burn in one hour an SPF of 15 would mean your skin would burn in fifteen hours or fifteen times longer. This is not the case.  SPF does not directly refer to the time of exposure but the amount of exposure. For example, your exposure at midday is much higher than in the morning. You cannot determine your time in the sun simply by what SPF you use. Lean more about SPF from the FDA website

Look For Mineral:

In general people with sensitive skin should look for mineral or physical sunscreens rather than products with chemical fillers. Look for zinc-oxide on the label. Zinc-oxide reflects the sun from the skin, much like a mirror, while chemical sunscreens will absorb the sun. Keep in mind this sunscreen may look white on your skin but you do not have to wait after applying to go into the sun. As this is a sun blocker it is usually gentle on the skin.

Avoid fragrances

Some sunscreens come with added fragrances to add a pleasing scent. These fragrances can irritate the skin. Look for fragrance-free options.

Elta MD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 – This mineral sunscreen is formulated  for sensitive skin, especially those prone to acne.

Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 50 – Although labeled as a product for babies this sunscreen is also great for adults.

Consider UPF clothing

 UPF or Ultraviolet Protection Factor is clothing that enhances your protection from UV rays. You can think of UPF the same as SPF in sunscreen. Check out the many UPF clothing options available at Salty Vibes