What sunscreens should I use to protect my skin this summer?

The sunscreen aisle can be overwhelming. Chemical or mineral? Spray or lotion? Is SPF 30 twice as effective as SPF 15? 

We asked a dermatologist what to look for in sunscreen to keep your skin -- and your kids' skin well-protected this summer.

M Health Fairview Pediatric Dermatologist Ingrid Polcari, MD, FAAD, who is also an associate professor with the University of Minnesota Medical School, recommends taking some time to look at the labels when you're shopping for sunscreen. For starters, pick a bottle with an SPF rating of 30 or higher with “broad spectrum” coverage. This means it protects against both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.

UVA rays—also known as long-wave rays—are primarily responsible for causing wrinkles and sunspots on skin, Polcari said. UVB rays are the ones that cause sunburn, but both UVA and UVB rays contribute to skin cancer. It's important to protect your skin because Minnesotans have high rates of melanoma.

Lotion or spray?

Polcari recommends lotions instead of sprays because they tend to be more foolproof. Sprays can be effective, she said, if you take the time to ensure they are evenly coating the skin. The sprayed area of skin should look wet, then the product should be rubbed in. Avoid using sprays in windy conditions, you don't want your efforts to blow away.

Spray-on sunscreen can also irritate eyes and lungs. Especially when helping children, avoid spraying sunscreen directly into the face. Because some of the propellants used in spray-on sunscreen are also flammable, take your sunscreen application away from grills, bonfires or other open flames.

Chemical or physical?

There are two main types of sunscreen ingredients – chemical and physical – and they work in different ways. Chemical sunscreen absorbs into the skin, converts UV rays into heat and releases them. Physical sunscreen sits on top of the skin, acting as a reflective barrier.

Chemical ingredients are typically clearer and easier to rub in. Physical ingredients such as zinc or titanium dioxide have the advantage of being more hypoallergenic. Physical sunscreens also carry a higher safety designation from the Food and Drug Administration, as well as environmental groups.

How can you tell the difference when shopping for sunscreen? Physical sunscreens list zinc and/or titanium dioxide as ingredients.

How and when to use sunscreen

No matter which type of sunscreen you use, reapply it every two hours, or after swimming or sweating. Focus on the head, neck, back, and lower legs, which usually get the most sun exposure, Polcari said. She also recommends purchasing water-resistant sunscreen if you’re planning any water-related activities.

Peak hours for UV exposure are between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., with some variation depending on the season. Still, it is possible to burn in the mornings and evenings, Polcari said. The UV index, commonly known as the “sunburn index,” is a useful tool when deciding whether you need protection from the sun.

“Most people need to take precautions in the sun if the UV index is 3 or higher,” Polcari said.

If you do burn, keep the skin area hydrated with a fragrance-free moisturizer and use ibuprofen to soothe the inflammation and discomfort. Cool baths and wet compresses may also help.

Dermatology care is available

Our team of dermatology experts provides comprehensive care for conditions ranging from acne to skin cancer. Learn more about M Health Fairview dermatology services. Yearly skin screenings are particularly important for people with a personal or family history of skin cancer.