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Beyond that, though, there are many differences between them.
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With that in mind, consider these the best sunscreens to consider for every need and preference.
The formula, which nourishes with a blend of vitamin E and shea oil, imparts a light-catching gloss.
Best Chemical:Supergoop!
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Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
Supergoop!
Its unscented, oil-free, and completely transparent on all skin tones.
It also works as a makeup primer, making it an ideal base beneath concealer and foundation.
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The plastic cap also responds to UV exposure, turning blue as a reminder to reapply sunscreen.
(Still, consider rubbing the sunscreen in after misting it on to ensure complete coverage.)
it’s possible for you to choose from 30 shades of sheer coverage.
It leaves skin with a dewy finish, and you could reapply it without it ever becoming cakey.
(SPF, meanwhile, only measures protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburns and skin cancer.)
Its PA rating is P++++, which is the highest available in Korea.
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It’s also non-comedogenic, so it’s unlikely to clog pores and trigger breakouts.
It also has a fresh, briney scent that doesn’t veer into the typical coconut territory.
How does sunscreen work?
Sunscreen works differently depending on its formulation.
There are two types, chemical and physical.
The skin then releases that heat.
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Physical sunscreens, meanwhile, use minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to shield skin from UV rays.
The UV rays basically bounce off the skin due to the minerals in the sunscreen.
Who should use sunscreen?
Everyone should use sunscreen.
What SPF rating do I need?
According to theAmerican Academy of Dermatology, your minimum number should be broad-spectrum SPF 30.
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However, higher-SPF products dont necessarily protect skin better than lower-SPF ones, she says.
How much sunscreen should I use?
Ideally, you should use one ounce of sunscreen for your whole body.
How often should you reapply sunscreen?
While some sunscreens may bill themselves as water-resistant, theyre not waterproofso reapplication is necessary.
Also, think about what you plan to do outdoors.
And finally, if you frequently apply sunscreen over makeup, he recommends a mineral-based SPF powder likeColorescience Sunforgettable.
These are so easy to toss in a bag and quite convenient to reapply, he says.
The right filter depends on a few factors.
For one, chemical sunscreens just tend to be more enjoyable to use.
They are also less likely to cause skin irritation or breakouts, says Dr. Turner.
However, human error can have an outsized impact.
At SPF 30, youll be blocking your skin from about 97% of the suns rays.
SPF 50 only bumps that coverage up to about 98%.
Instead, diligent usage is your best bet for healthy, youthful skin.
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