June 28, 2025, 10:25 am | Read time: 5 minutes
Finding a sunscreen that offers optimal protection, absorbs well, and is easy to apply can be challenging. To help you navigate the wide range of products, STYLEBOOK consulted an expert.
Sunscreen is important! This should be common knowledge, but is all sunscreen created equal? STYLEBOOK wanted to know more, because how do we actually recognize a good product?
Which areas of the skin should be protected daily?
“Your face, as well as your ears and neck, are exposed to UV rays every day and should be protected daily with sunscreen to avoid cumulative sun damage that can lead to skin cancer or signs of photoaging such as sunspots, fine lines, wrinkles, and skin sagging,” advises Dr. Stefanie Derendorf, a dermatologist and venereologist in Munich. “This applies not only on trips to the pool or beach, because even when indoors, UVA rays can penetrate windows and cause sun damage.”
When should the skin be protected?
“The skin should be protected daily, ideally right after getting up in the morning. Even if the sun is not yet noticeably shining, its UV rays are already active. This applies regardless of the season and weather, as UV rays can penetrate clouds,” says Dr. Derendorf.
Proper application of good sunscreen products
It’s best to apply your sunscreen in the morning after cleansing your face. If you also use a moisturizer or a vitamin C serum, apply these first to your face and then finish with sunscreen and makeup.
Don’t skimp on the amount and follow the two-finger rule: Squeeze the sunscreen into a line that matches the length of your index and middle fingers. This amount is ideal for your face.
Make sure to protect every part of your skin, including ears, lips, and neck, and apply your sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going outside. This gives the sunscreen enough time to absorb into the skin before you are exposed to the sun. Reapply at least every two hours when outdoors.
Difference between chemical and mineral sunscreen
Mineral sunscreen
Mineral sunscreen does not absorb into the skin and often contains active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, whose small particles sit on the skin and form a kind of barrier that deflects UV rays. For this reason, it is also called a “sunblock.” It is considered particularly well-tolerated, but the products are often harder to spread due to their denser consistency and ingredients.
Chemical sunscreen
Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin and protect it by deactivating UV rays through a chemical reaction. The consistency is lighter, easier to spread, and does not remain on the skin. However, they often contain chemical agents like oxybenzone or avobenzone, which are controversial.
Also interesting: Shocking result! 13 percent do not use sunscreen when sunbathing
What should you look for in a good sunscreen?
Even if you might be tempted to choose the first sunscreen you find or the one with the highest SPF or the most pleasant scent, there are many factors to consider when buying good sunscreen.
At least SPF 30
Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Studies show that sunscreens with SPF 30, when applied correctly, block up to 97 percent of UVB rays.
Broad-spectrum sunscreen
“The sun emits three types of ultraviolet (UV) rays: Ultraviolet A (UVA), Ultraviolet B (UVB), and Ultraviolet C (UVC),” explains Dr. Derendorf. “UVC rays are absorbed by the Earth’s ozone layer and therefore do not reach the skin. However, UVA and UVB rays can both hit the skin and pose health risks. UVB rays cause most types of skin cancer. UVA rays can also contribute to skin cancer but primarily lead to premature skin aging.” Make sure your sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection, as it is the only type that provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Broad-spectrum sunscreen
A good sunscreen should be water- and sweat-resistant. However, remember that even these products need to be reapplied regularly.
At least SPF 30
Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Studies show that sunscreens with SPF 30, when applied correctly, block up to 97 percent of UVB rays.
Broad-spectrum sunscreen
“The sun emits three types of ultraviolet (UV) rays: Ultraviolet A (UVA), Ultraviolet B (UVB), and Ultraviolet C (UVC),” explains Dr. Derendorf. “UVC rays are absorbed by the Earth’s ozone layer and therefore do not reach the skin. However, UVA and UVB rays can both hit the skin and pose health risks. UVB rays cause most types of skin cancer. UVA rays can also contribute to the development of skin cancer, but primarily lead to premature skin aging.” Make sure your sunscreen is broad-spectrum, protecting against both UVA and UVB rays.
Water-Resistant
A good sunscreen should be water- and sweat-resistant. However, remember that even these products need to be reapplied regularly.
Suitable for Your Skin Type
Choose a sunscreen that suits your skin type. For oily skin, look for products that are lightweight and non-greasy. For drier skin, opt for sunscreens with moisturizing, replenishing ingredients.
Special considerations for darker skin
“Skin tone also plays a role,” says Dr. Derendorf. “If you have darker skin, some sunscreens, especially those with a mineral base, may leave a white cast or be harder to blend. Look for products specifically designed for darker skin tones.”
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Vitamin D synthesis
“No sunscreen can completely block UV rays and cause a vitamin D deficiency,” says Dr. Derendorf. “The idea that sunscreen prevents the vital synthesis of vitamin D is a misconception.”