What should the label say?
Start with these three label checks, rather than letting the bottle's beach photography make the decision. Sunscreen that meets these criteria helps prevent sunburn, reduce skin cancer risk and prevent early signs of skin aging.1
| Label detail | What it tells you | What to choose |
|---|---|---|
| Broad spectrum | Protection against both UVA and UVB rays. | Look for these words, not just an SPF number. |
| SPF | The level of protection against sunburn, primarily from UVB rays. | SPF 30 or higher. |
| Water resistant | Protection while swimming or sweating for a tested period. | Check whether the label says 40 or 80 minutes. |
On UK sunscreen labels, look for SPF 30 or higher and at least four stars for UVA protection. The letters UVA inside a circle indicate that the sunscreen meets the EU standard. SPF and UVA markings answer different questions, so check both.4
Is SPF 50 better than SPF 30?
Higher SPF provides greater protection against sunburn. SPF 30 is a useful starting point; SPF 50 or higher is a better choice for extended outdoor exposure, such as a beach day or outdoor exercise. UVA rays penetrate more deeply and are a major cause of wrinkles and sagging. UVB rays are the main cause of sunburn. Both contribute to skin cancer, which is why broad spectrum protection matters alongside SPF.2
SPF is not a timer: SPF 30 does not mean you can safely stay outside 30 times longer. Sun intensity changes with the time of day and your location. A higher number does not remove the need to reapply or use other sun protection.3
Should you choose mineral or chemical sunscreen?
Both types use active ingredients, called UV filters, to protect against ultraviolet radiation. Some formulas combine mineral and chemical filters. The active ingredient section of the label tells you which filters a product contains; the broad spectrum and SPF markings tell you about its protection.2
| Filter type | Examples | How it works |
|---|---|---|
| Mineral, also called inorganic | Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide | Primarily absorbs UV radiation, with a smaller amount scattered or reflected. |
| Chemical, also called organic | Avobenzone and bemotrizinol | Absorbs UV radiation and releases the energy as heat. |
Which formula suits your skin?
For oily skin, look for a sunscreen labelled noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores, or one marked "won't clog pores". For darker skin tones, a tinted sunscreen can help avoid the white cast that some products leave. Most tinted sunscreens do not leave a white cast. If a sunscreen irritates your skin, stop using it.5
Lotions, creams, sticks and gels are all sunscreen formats, despite the shelf looking like several unrelated hobbies. Sprays are another option, but application directions differ between formats. Read the directions for the product you choose, and never spray sunscreen directly onto your face.3
Many sunscreen sprays contain flammable alcohol. Keep them away from open flames and follow the warning label. Check whether your sunscreen has been recalled, and stop using it if it has.6
How should you apply sunscreen?
- 1Apply sunscreen after your other skincare products and before makeup.
- 2Put it on 15 minutes before going outdoors, following the product's directions.
- 3Cover all exposed skin generously and evenly. Adults covering the whole body should aim for around 6 to 8 teaspoons.
- 4Include your face, neck, ears, hands, tops of feet and exposed scalp. Use SPF lip balm for your lips, and avoid getting sunscreen in your eyes or mouth.
- 5Reapply at least every two hours outdoors, and more often when swimming or sweating. Reapply after towel drying or when sunscreen has rubbed off.
Applying sunscreen too thinly reduces its protection. For an outing long enough to risk burning, UK guidance uses two applications: 30 minutes before leaving and again just before going out. Build sunscreen into daytime outdoor plans, including walks and trips to work, rather than saving it for holidays.45
Makeup with SPF is not a shortcut around these requirements. To get sunscreen benefits from makeup, it needs SPF 30 or higher and reapplication every two hours.5
Does water resistant mean waterproof?
No sunscreen is waterproof. A water resistance claim means the product maintains its labelled protection for either 40 or 80 minutes while swimming or sweating. Choose water resistance for these activities, follow the reapplication directions, and reapply straight after leaving the water or towel drying.46
Who needs extra care?
People of every skin colour need sun protection. Take extra care if you have pale skin, light hair, a personal history of skin cancer or a family member who has had it. Some medicines increase sun sensitivity; ask your healthcare professional about precautions for the medicines you take.6
Keep babies younger than six months out of direct sunlight and ask a doctor before applying sunscreen. For children older than six months, follow the sunscreen label. Clothing and shade remain essential for children.34
Check the bottle's age and storage
Do not use expired sunscreen. If there is no expiry date, discard it three years after purchase; discard it sooner if you do not know its age. Keep the container out of excessive heat and direct sunlight. Outdoors, keep it in the shade or wrap it in a towel.3
What else should you use?
No sunscreen completely blocks UV radiation. Add shade, clothing, a broad brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection. Protect your skin on cloudy days too. Do not extend your time in the sun because you are wearing sunscreen. If sunburn leaves you feeling unwell, or your skin swells badly or blisters, seek medical help.46
