What makes it a good facial sunscreen?
Look for three things: broad spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher, and water resistance. Broad spectrum means protection against both UVA and UVB, the two types of ultraviolet radiation that reach your skin. SPF mainly describes protection against UVB, which causes sunburn.123
Match sunscreen to your skin's needs, because Protect + Hydrate is a product name rather than a skin type. If your face is oily, dry or sensitive, choose a formula intended for those needs. The name does not tell you whether this particular version will feel comfortable, sting, or cause breakouts. Nor does it tell you whether you will need a separate moisturiser.1
How should you apply it to your face?
- 1Read your bottle's directions. These are general sunscreen steps; directions can differ between formulas and formats.
- 2Apply sunscreen every day before going outdoors, including cloudy days. Put it on 15 minutes before sun exposure.
- 3Apply liberally and evenly over exposed skin. Cover your face, ears, neck and hairline, while avoiding your eyes and mouth. Use an SPF lip balm for your lips.
- 4If you have a spray sunscreen, never spray it directly onto your face.
- 5Reapply at least every two hours outdoors, and follow the label's additional instructions for swimming, sweating and water resistance.
Do not mistake the usual one ounce guideline for a facial dose: that amount is for covering an average adult's whole body. For your face, the practical requirement is generous, even coverage. Applying too little sunscreen can leave you with less protection than the SPF rating suggests.23
Does Aveeno Protect + Hydrate sunscreen leave a white cast?
A cast free finish is not confirmed for the exact Aveeno version you have. As general guidance, mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide can leave white residue, although finer mineral particles reduce it. Without the exact formula and information about its finish, calling this sunscreen invisible would be a guess.3
Is Aveeno Protect + Hydrate sunscreen water resistant?
Check your bottle for a water resistance claim and its duration. A label stating 40 or 80 minutes describes how long the sunscreen maintains its labelled protection while swimming or sweating. Neither duration means waterproof. Follow the bottle's reapplication instructions rather than assuming the regular two hour interval covers every swim.24
Who needs extra care?
If you take medicines, ask your health care professional whether they increase sun sensitivity and require extra precautions. Ask a doctor before applying sunscreen to a child younger than six months. Whatever sunscreen you choose, use shade and protective clothing too: no sunscreen completely blocks ultraviolet radiation.245
