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Which sunscreen should you use?

Struggling to decide what is the best sunscreen to use or understand what to look for in a good sunscreen? This Coppertone sunscreen guide will provide the information you need to find the best sunscreen for you.

What's in this article?

How to Choose the Best Sunscreen 

Whether you’re at the airport stocking up on last-minute sunscreen supplies before a holiday, or just looking for something to keep in your bag at home, shopping for sunscreen can be confusing. With so many sunscreen recommendations, it can be difficult to know how to choose the best for you. 

Everyone, including men, woman and children over 6 months should use sunscreen.  For babies under the age of 6 months consult your doctor before using. Infants should stay out of the sun and wear sun-protective clothing.

So, with so many variables - how do you choose the best sunscreen for you? And what do all of the acronyms on the bottles mean? Don’t worry - Coppertone is here to answer all of your questions.  

Choosing the Right SPF 

When thinking about what to look for in sunscreen, SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is one of the things you’ll spot first on any bottle. Put simply, SPF is a measure of how well a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays and sunburn. This means that the higher the SPF value the greater your sun protection.  
woman holding sunscreen smiling

The best SPF for you will depend on several factors: 

  • Applying the right amount  
  • Reapplying every 2 hours throughout the day, immediately after towel drying and after 40 or 80 minutes of swimming or sweating 
  • Your skin type and sensitivity to the sun 
  • Time spent outdoors and activities undertaken 

As a general guide, the higher the SPF value, the more UVB rays it will stop: 

  • SPF 15 - stops around 93% of UVB rays 
  • SPF 30 - stops around 97% of UVB rays  
  • SPF 50 - stops around 98% of UVB rays 
Know that no level of SPF provides 100% protection, and you should reapply a minimum of every 2 hours or immediately after towel drying, and after 40-80 minutes of swimming or sweating (for water-resistant sunscreens). You should also remember that the SPF is only a measure for UVB rays and doesn’t relate to UVA rays at all.

What is Broad Spectrum Protection? 

Broad spectrum refers to sunscreens that help protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. It is advisable to choose a sunscreen that is broad spectrum as both UVA and UVB rays damage skin and can cause skin cancer. 

What are UV Filters and How Do They Work? 

UV filters (or ultraviolet filters) are the ingredients added to sunscreens that can absorb, reflect or scatter the sun’s harmful rays. It's important to think about whether your sunscreen has the right UV filters and make sure you know which UV rays they can protect against. 

Chemical (Organic) or Mineral (Physical) Filters? 

There are 2 types of filters used in sunscreen which are Chemical (sometimes called Organic) and Mineral (sometimes called Physical). These work slightly differently so it is helpful to understand the differences, to work out which sunscreen to use.

Chemical filters work by absorbing UV rays through a chemical reaction whereas Mineral filters sit on the surface of the skin to absorb, reflect and scatter them. There is not one type that is better than the other as both are safe and effective, however, Mineral sunscreens are usually better suited to those with sensitive or oily skin.

 

UVA and UVB rays

The sun emits UV rays , which can be categorized into the three types:

  1. UVA rays – These rays are primarily responsible for tanning. They penetrate deep into the skin dermis layer and often cause damage that can lead to skin aging, such as wrinkles. age spots, sagging skin) and skin cancer. UVA rays can penetrate glass and clouds   
  2. UVB rays - Are the rays responsible for causing sunburn. UVB rays penetrate and damage the outer layers of the skin and can cause cancer. They reflect off surfaces like snow, ice, sand and water.
  3. UVC rays - Are known as the most dangerous of the three, but don’t panic, you don’t need to worry about these types of rays as the atmosphere's ozone layer absorbs them.  

 

man applying coppertone sport sunscreen spray to his arm
Which sunscreen should you use?

Which Application Form is Best for You?

Sunscreen can come in many different forms, from lotions, to sprays to sticks, so to know how to choose a good sunscreen you must think about which formula is best for you. 

 

Creams and Lotions 

Sunscreen creams and lotions are a popular choice, this form of suncream, such as the Coppertone Complete Lotion SPF 50 is easy to apply and offers additional moisturizing qualities. Most sunscreen creams or lotions will offer a range of options to cater to different skin types.

 

Sticks and Roll-Ons 

If you want to be able to carry your sunscreen, without the risk of spilling, sunscreen sticks or roll-ons may be the right choice for you. You can apply these directly onto your skin and rub in. Sunscreen sticks are perfect for kids, those who do not like the feel of lotion or prefer the application assistance.

Coppertone Sticks & Roll-Ons

Spray 

Spray sunscreens are great for getting coverage all over, as they help you apply sunscreen to those hard to reach places on your body. They also feel lighter on the skin than creams or lotions, require less rubbing in and so make a good option for those with lots of body hair or who simply prefer the feel.

Sprays can also vary in style, from more traditional squirt bottles to aerosol-like cans that can be sprayed in any direction. 

Coppertone Sunscreen Sprays
Whatever you decide, all forms of sunscreen should be stored in a cool and dry place for best results and generally speaking, all sunscreens have a shelf life of around three years on average.
woman holding coppertone complete sunscreen spray

Water-Resistant Sunscreen 

When deciding how to choose a good sunscreen for you you'll need to consider if you need water resistant sunscreen. Whether the sunny weather has you going for a dip in the pool or working up a sweat on a jog you’ll need to know if your sunscreen still works when swimming or sweating.  

 

When exposed to water sunscreens become less effective. Water resistant sunscreens are made with ingredients that are resistant to water for a period. Typically, it is stated on product packaging how long a sunscreen can resist water for: 40 or 80 minutes. 

 

The term ‘waterproof sunscreen’ used to refer to those sunscreens that would remain effective for a period of time when swimming or sweating. However, in 2011 the FDA banned the term ‘waterproof sunscreen’ as they felt it is misleading, no sunscreen can be 100% waterproof. Water resistant sunscreens are a great option if you know you are going to get wet.  

 

It is important to remember that water resistant sunscreens will only be water resistant for a period of time (40 or 80 minutes) so make sure to apply and reapply as directed on the packaging.  

Choosing the Best Sunscreen to Use Based on Other Benefits

Now you’ve uncovered the importance of SPF, type of UV filters, application forms and water resistance it’s time to consider if there are any additional sunscreen benefits you are looking for to help choose which to use. 

 

Sport: If you’re looking for durable sun protection as part of your active lifestyle then the Coppertone Sport range will be the solution for you. This range has been created to stay on strong, resisting sweat, heat and water so you can go about your activities. 

Coppertone Sport Sunscreens

 

Glow: for a sunscreen with a little extra focus on beauty, the Coppertone Glow range could be your answer. This range contains illuminating shimmers that give your skin a beautiful glow. 

Coppertone Glow
man balancing coppertone sport sunscreen spray on his finger

Choosing the Best Sunscreen Based on Skin Type 

Another factor when considering how to choose a good sunscreen formula is knowing what your skin type is.  

 

Sunscreen for Oily Skin 

If you have oily skin, you shouldn't let it deter you from applying sunscreen. When you know how to choose sunscreen for oily skin you can protect your skin from the sun without having to settle for greasy skin.  

It's advisable to look for a sunscreen that has a non-greasy formula and won't clog pores (non-comedogenic) or cause breakouts.  
 

Sunscreen for Dry Skin 

If you are experiencing dry skin, you should choose sunscreens with additional moisturizing benefits.  

 

Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin 

If you know you have sensitive skin look for sunscreens that are hypoallergenic and gentle on skin.

The Coppertone Pure & Simple range of mineral sunscreens are hypoallergenic and gentle on skin, offering sun protection and are suitable for sensitive skin. 

Coppertone Pure & Simple Range

Final Sunscreen Checklist 

The idea of what sunscreen to choose should now be a little clearer, here is a handy checklist when out shopping of what to look for: 

  1. SPF level: the measure of how well a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays and sunburn; the higher the SPF value the greater your sun protection 
  2. Broad spectrum: to help protect against both UVA and UVB rays 
  3. UV filters: chemical (organic) or mineral (physical) - this is preferential based on needs 
  4. Application format: also preferential but some may be more beneficial to your lifestyle and needs 
  5. Water resistant: ideal if you will be swimming or sweating 
  6. Additional benefits: consider if there is anything else you would like from your sunscreen 
  7. Skin type suitability: most sunscreens are suitable for all skin types but always refer to product packaging, particularly if you have known skin concerns such as increased sensitivity you should opt for sunscreens formulated for these needs 
woman smiling with sunscreen on her nose

Tips for Sunscreen Usage

Choosing the best sunscreen for you to use is not the only important thing to protect your skin from the sun. You also need to make sure you are using it correctly. Follow these tips to get the most out of your protection: 

  • Apply the sunscreen generously to all visible skin, including your ears, hands, feet, neck, back of knees, scalp (on the parting line) and nose
  • Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure 
  • Reapply every two hours, more if you are swimming or sweating  
  • Apply sunscreen to the top of your head if you can or instead wear a hat 
  • Make sure you read your sunscreen label for important additional information 

The FDA recommends regularly using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher, along with other sun protection measures  

Other Ways to Protect Your Skin From the Sun

Sunscreen alone is not always enough to prevent the sun having an impact on skin. To minimize the effect of UV rays it is also important to follow other sun safety measures. 

 

Avoid direct sun exposure

You should try to limit the amount of time you spend in the sun, particularly between 10-2pm when the sun’s rays are more intense. Stay in shaded areas wherever you can.  

 

Keep your skin covered

You can also help protect your skin from sun exposure by covering your skin, by wearing loose fitted long-sleeved tops and trousers, sunglasses and sun hats when you are outside in the sun.  
 

Choose the Best Sunscreen for You to Use 

Choosing the best sunscreen for you is important to encourage regular use to protect your skin from the sun’s damaging rays. Opting for higher SPF levels will provide more protection but no sunscreen will ever provide 100% protection from the sun. You can either opt for Organic or Mineral sunscreens and they come in various application formats for ease of use based on preference and lifestyle. Additional benefits and skin type may also be considered when deciding on which sunscreen to choose.

 

Coppertone offers a broad range of different sunscreen types for varying needs and uses. Explore the full range to find the best sunscreen for you to use today. 

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