• 15/05/2025 00:08

How to Choose the Perfect Sunscreen for the Summer Season

Learn how to choose the best sunscreen for summer with dermatologist advice. Comparisons, tips, and a selection guide—everything for your skin’s safety!Learn how to choose the best sunscreen for summer with dermatologist advice. Comparisons, tips, and a selection guide—everything for your skin’s safety!

With the arrival of summer, the importance of sunscreen increases dramatically. Sun exposure can not only cause premature aging but also lead to serious skin health issues. To avoid unpleasant consequences, it is crucial to choose the right sunscreen for ultraviolet protection. Dermatologists emphasize that not every sunscreen works equally well for all skin types. In this article, Baltimore Chronicle will explore the main tips and things to pay attention to when selecting the best sunscreen for summer.

Why It’s Important to Use Sunscreen in Summer

In summer, the intensity of ultraviolet radiation peaks. Both UVA and UVB rays are major causes of sunburn, pigmentation, and even skin cancer. Even on a cloudy day, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate through the clouds. Regular sunscreen use helps to:

  • Reduce the risk of melanoma
  • Prevent photoaging of the skin
  • Protect the skin from burns and irritation
  • Maintain an even skin tone
  • Preserve skin elasticity and firmness

Without proper protection, even short-term exposure to the sun can cause significant damage.

Key Criteria for Choosing Sunscreen

The right choice of sunscreen depends on several important factors.

Skin Type

Before purchasing, it’s important to consider your skin type:

  • For dry skin, it’s better to choose creams with additional moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera.
  • For oily skin, lightweight textures such as fluids or gels are ideal.
  • Sensitive skin requires creams with minimal fragrance and hypoallergenic formulas.

SPF Level

SPF is the Sun Protection Factor, which measures the level of protection against UVB rays. For city environments, SPF 30 is sufficient, while for beach or mountain activities, SPF 50 or higher is recommended.

Protection from UVA Rays

Look for “broad spectrum” labeling or special markings like the UVA circle to ensure complete protection.

Mineral or Chemical Filter: Which to Choose

Sunscreens come in two types based on their active ingredients:

Mineral (Physical) Filters

These creams create a barrier on the skin that reflects UV rays. The main ingredients are titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

Advantages:

  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Immediate protection after application
  • Lower risk of allergic reactions

Disadvantages:

  • Can leave a white residue on the skin
  • Heavier texture

Chemical Filters

These filters absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. Common ingredients include avobenzone, octocrylene, and octinoxate.

Advantages:

  • Lightweight textures
  • Invisible on the skin
  • Easy to apply

Disadvantages:

  • May irritate sensitive skin
  • Protection requires about 20 minutes to activate

Additional Features to Consider

When choosing sunscreen, don’t overlook the following details:

  • Water Resistance — if you plan to swim or sweat.
  • Hypoallergenic — important for those with allergies.
  • Presence of Antioxidants — vitamin C, vitamin E help neutralize free radicals.
  • Coral-Safe — especially important for beach vacations.

How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly

Choosing the right product is not enough — it’s also important to apply it correctly:

  1. Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going out into the sun.
  2. Use a sufficient amount: about 2 mg of cream per cm² of skin or a teaspoon for your face and neck.
  3. Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming/sweating.
  4. Don’t forget your ears, neck, hands, and feet.
  5. Use special SPF lip balms.

Sunscreen Comparison Table

ParameterMineral SunscreenChemical Sunscreen
ActionReflects raysAbsorbs rays
EffectivenessImmediate after applicationAfter 20 minutes
Best forSensitive skin, childrenNormal, oily skin
DurabilityHigher in water and sweatNeeds reapplication
DisadvantagesWhite residueMay irritate

Common Mistakes When Choosing Sunscreen

Ignoring Skin Type

Choosing the wrong sunscreen can lead to greasiness, clogged pores, or irritation.

Low SPF Levels

Using a sunscreen with an insufficient SPF does not provide adequate protection in summer.

Not Reapplying Sunscreen Regularly

Protection diminishes after a few hours of use.

Ignoring the Ingredients

Alcohol and harsh fragrances in the formula can dry out the skin.

Earlier we wrote about how to prepare your skin for summer after winter.

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