What Sunscreen Ingredients to Look for — and Which Avoid

When shopping for sunscreen, it's important to understand not just the SPF, but the ingredients themselves. Here's what to look for--and what to avoid:

Sunscreen Ingredients to Look for:

- Broad-spectrum protection: This means the sunscreen protects against both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. UVA rays are linked to skin aging, while UVB rays cause sunburns.

- SPF 30 or higher: SPF, or sun protection factor, indicates the sunscreen's ability to block UVB rays. SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks 98%. Choosing a sunscreen with SPF 30+ offers adequate protection.

- Water resistance: If you plan to swim or sweat, choose a water-resistant sunscreen that keeps its effectiveness for at least 40 to 80 minutes in water.

- Physical or mineral sunscreen: These contain substances like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which sit on the skin's surface and reflect UV light physically.

- Chemical sunscreens: These contain organic compounds that absorb UV light and release it as heat. They tend to be lighter and more comfortable on the skin and include avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, and homosalate.

Sunscreen Ingredients to Avoid:

- Oxybenzone: This ingredient is linked to endocrine disruption and may cause allergies and skin irritation. Studies suggest potential absorption into the bloodstream.

- Octinoxate (octylmethoxycinnamate): Similar to oxybenzone, this common sunscreen ingredient has been associated with endocrine disruption.

- Retinyl palmitate: While retinyl palmitate (vitamin A) offers anti-aging benefits, it can lose stability in the sun and may worsen sun damage if not formulated correctly.

- Artificial fragrances: These added scents can irritate sensitive skin.

Remember, even the best sunscreen won't protect you fully unless you apply it correctly:

- Apply sunscreen generously 20 minutes before going outdoors.

- Reapply every 2 hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.

- Cover all exposed areas, including your face, neck, ears, feet, and legs, even on cloudy days.

- Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses for full protection.

- Avoid the hottest hours of the day (10 am-4 pm) when UV rays are at their peak.

Cold Sore Certain Foods Outbreaks? How to Follow the Interstitial Cystitis Diet