Sunscreen has become an important part of many skincare routines, sitting alongside cleansers, moisturisers and serums on bathroom shelves. But with so many bottles promising glowing skin, invisible finishes and protection that lasts all day, choosing the right one can feel like a beauty exam nobody prepared for.
The truth is that sunscreen is more than a product for beach holidays or exceptionally sunny afternoons. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the skin even when the weather is cloudy, contributing to sunburn, premature ageing, uneven skin tone and skin cancer. Regular sunscreen use, alongside other sun-protection measures, helps reduce these risks.
However, not every sunscreen will suit every person. Someone with oily skin may dislike a heavy, greasy formula, while someone with dry skin may prefer a product that provides extra moisture. People with darker skin tones may also want a formula that does not leave a noticeable white cast.
Before spending money on another skincare product, here are five important factors to consider when choosing a sunscreen that protects your skin and fits comfortably into your daily routine.
1. Check the SPF and broad-spectrum protection
The first thing to examine is the sun protection factor, commonly known as SPF. This number indicates how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which are a major cause of sunburn.
Dermatologists generally recommend choosing a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. SPF 30 filters approximately 97 per cent of UVB rays when applied correctly, while SPF 50 filters about 98 per cent. Neither offers complete protection, so a higher number does not mean you can apply the product once in the morning and forget about it until bedtime.
Equally important is the term broad spectrum. This means the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. While UVB rays are strongly associated with sunburn, UVA rays penetrate more deeply into the skin and contribute to premature ageing, including wrinkles and dark spots.
For everyday use, look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. This is particularly useful if you spend time walking outdoors, commuting, running errands or exercising in the open.
2. Consider your skin type
A sunscreen may offer excellent protection but still be uncomfortable if it does not agree with your skin. The goal is to find a formula you can apply consistently without feeling as though you have coated your face in cooking oil.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for products labelled oil-free or non-comedogenic. These are designed to reduce the likelihood of clogged pores. Lightweight lotions, gels and fluid formulas may also feel more comfortable.
People with dry skin may prefer cream-based sunscreens containing moisturising ingredients. Those with sensitive skin should consider fragrance-free products and check the ingredient list for substances that have previously irritated.
Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide can be a useful option for people who find other formulas irritating, although individual reactions vary.
If you have darker skin, a tinted sunscreen may be worth considering. Some formulas leave a white or greyish residue, particularly when they contain mineral filters. A well-matched tint can help avoid this effect while making daily application more appealing.
3. Choose a formula that fits your daily activities
Sunscreens come in creams, lotions, gels, sticks and sprays. The best choice depends partly on where you intend to use it and what you will be doing throughout the day.
Creams are often suitable for the face and dry skin, while gels and lighter fluids may appeal to people who dislike a heavy finish. Sticks can be convenient for areas such as the nose and around the eyes, while sprays can make application over larger areas easier. However, sprays require careful application to ensure the skin receives enough product.
Your lifestyle matters, too. If you regularly visit the gym, enjoy outdoor runs or spend time in the sun, a water-resistant sunscreen is worth considering. Sweat can interfere with protection, making the right formula particularly useful during exercise.
Remember that water-resistant does not mean waterproof. Products are generally labelled as water-resistant for either 40 or 80 minutes under specified conditions. You still need to reapply as directed, especially after swimming, sweating heavily or towelling off.
4. Read the ingredients and check your skin’s needs
The ingredient list can tell you more about a sunscreen than its attractive packaging or promises of a flawless finish.
Sunscreens generally use mineral filters, organic filters commonly called chemical filters, or a combination of both. Mineral formulas use zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both. Other sunscreens use different UV filters to absorb ultraviolet radiation. Both types can provide effective protection when properly formulated and used according to their instructions.
Neither category is automatically better for everyone. Your skin’s tolerance, the product’s protection level and whether you enjoy using its texture are all important.
If your skin is sensitive, choose a fragrance-free formula and consider testing a small amount on an inconspicuous patch of skin before applying it more widely. Stop using it if you develop persistent irritation or a rash.
You should also check the expiry date and purchase products from reputable sellers. A bargain is not much of a bargain if you cannot verify what you are putting on your skin.
If you use sunscreen to manage concerns such as melasma or persistent dark spots, a tinted formula containing iron oxides may offer additional protection against visible light, which can worsen pigmentation in some people.
5. Think about affordability
An expensive sunscreen is not necessarily the best sunscreen for you. While premium products may offer elegant textures or additional skincare ingredients, a more affordable product can still provide effective protection if it meets the essential requirements.
Consider how much product you receive, how often you will use it and whether you can comfortably afford to replace it. A small tube that you use sparingly because you are trying to make it last may not serve you as well as a reasonably priced option you can apply generously.
Also, choose a product that fits into your existing routine. If you dislike sticky finishes, look for a lighter formula. If white residue bothers you, try a tinted option. If you wear makeup, test how the sunscreen sits beneath your foundation.
Once you find a suitable product, use it correctly. Apply sunscreen generously to exposed skin before going outdoors, following the label’s directions. Reapply at least every two hours while outdoors, and sooner after swimming, heavy sweating or towelling off. Do not forget your ears, neck, hands and lips; a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher is useful for protecting your lips.
