How to Choose the Right Sunscreen: Dermatologist-Backed Tips for Every Skin Type

Let’s be honest — sunscreen shouldn’t be the forgotten step in your skincare routine. It’s not just for beach days or tropical getaways. It is the quiet hero of your daily defense — preserving your skin, protecting your collagen, helping to prevent premature aging, dark spots and skin cancer.
But we get it: the sunscreen aisle can feel overwhelming. SPF 15 or 50? Chemical or mineral? Matte or dewy? Let’s break it down so you can choose a sunscreen that protects and complements your skin beautifully.
☀️ Why Sunscreen Isn’t Optional
Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays can sneak through. That silent exposure leads to:
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Wrinkles and fine lines
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Uneven skin tone and pigmentation
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Loss of skin firmness
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And yes — increased risk of skin cancer
If you’re investing in collagen, hydration, or exfoliation, but skipping SPF, you're undoing all that goodness. We believe preservation is just as important as renewal. That’s why sunscreen is one of the most important anti-aging tools you can use — daily.
1. Always Go for Broad-Spectrum Protection
Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect against:
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UVA rays (aging + wrinkles)
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UVB rays (burns + skin cancer)
Look for SPF 30 or higher as your baseline. And when in doubt? Choose protection that works harder, not just longer.
Pro Tip from Glisn’s formulators: Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide offer reliable UVA/UVB protection — plus they’re gentle on sensitive skin.
2. Understand Your SPF Numbers
Think of SPF like your personal shield strength:
SPF | UVB Blocked |
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15 | ~93% |
30 | ~97% |
50 | ~98% |
While no sunscreen blocks 100% of rays, higher SPF means longer protection — especially during beach days, hikes, or lunch breaks under the sun.
3. Mineral or Chemical? Here’s the Real Difference
Chemical Sunscreens
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Absorb UV rays and convert them to heat
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Lightweight, often invisible
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Ideal if you love a sheer finish under makeup
Mineral (Physical) Sunscreens
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Reflect UV rays at the skin’s surface
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Star ingredients: zinc oxide & titanium dioxide
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Calming for sensitive or breakout-prone skin
If you’ve ever had sunscreen sting your eyes or clog your pores — try switching to a mineral formula. That change alone can transform your skincare experience.
4. Match It to Your Skin Type
Oily or Acne-Prone?
Look for oil-free, non-comedogenic textures that absorb quickly.
Glisn loves: Matte-finish SPFs that stay put, even under heat or sweat.
💡 Try: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin SPF 60
Dry or Dehydrated?
Choose sunscreens with hydrating heroes like hyaluronic acid or ceramides.
Think: comfort and glow without greasiness.
💡 Try: CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
Sensitive or Reactive?
Skip the fragrance. Go mineral. Your skin barrier will thank you.
Bonus if it includes niacinamide — one of Glisn’s favorite Super Skin Vitamins.
💡 Try: Neutrogena Sheer Zinc SPF 50
Melanin-Rich Skin Tones?
Say no to white cast. Look for invisible or tinted formulas that blend seamlessly.
💡 Try:
5. How to Apply Like a Pro
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Use 1 ounce (about a shot glass) for full body coverage
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Don’t skip: ears, neck, chest, lips, and the tops of your feet
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Reapply every 2 hours — especially after sweating, swimming, or toweling off
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Yes, even inside! UV rays can pass through windows and cause pigmentation while you’re driving or working near sunlight
6. Going Beyond: Water Resistance & Sweat-Proofing
Look for:
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“Water-resistant (40 min)” or
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“Very water-resistant (80 min)” if you're active outdoors
⚠️ No sunscreen is truly waterproof. Always reapply after your workout or dip in the pool.
Dermatologist-Recommended Sunscreens We Love (on Amazon)
Sunscreen | Best For | Link |
---|---|---|
EltaMD UV Clear Tinted SPF 46 | Sensitive or acne-prone skin | Buy on Amazon |
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizer SPF 30 | Dry skin & hydration | Buy on Amazon |
Neutrogena Hydro Boost SPF 50 | Lightweight & dewy finish | Buy on Amazon |
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 | Rich skin tones, zero cast | Buy on Amazon |
La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF 60 | Oily, breakout-prone skin | Buy on Amazon |
*These are affiliate links that we may receive a fee at no cost to you
✨ Final Thoughts
Beautiful skin isn’t built overnight — it’s protected every single day. Sunscreen is one of the simplest ways to preserve the skin.
And the best sunscreen? The one you’ll reach for every morning, without fail.