Sunscreen for skin over 60

Why sunscreen still matters after 60

Sun exposure can cause or accelerate wrinkles, dryness, age spots and skin cancer. Protecting your skin remains part of healthy skin care as you age, alongside daily moisturizing and checking your skin for changes. Previous years outdoors are a reason to protect your skin now, not a reason to give up on protection.3

Sun damage is permanent, so think of sunscreen as protection against further damage rather than a treatment that erases the past. SPF means sun protection factor and describes protection against UVB damage, the rays responsible for sunburn. Broad spectrum protection covers both UVB and UVA, which affects deeper skin layers.1

Which sunscreen should you choose?

Tinted sunscreens contain iron oxide and add protection against visible light, which can worsen dark spots, particularly in darker skin tones. Mineral, chemical and hybrid sunscreens can all provide effective protection when they meet the SPF, broad spectrum and water resistance criteria.2

The best sunscreen is one you will use repeatedly, because a bottle left in a drawer has chosen early retirement.2

Less expensive sunscreens with the same ingredients work as well as expensive ones, so the packaging does not get its own protection rating.1

Is SPF 50 better than SPF 30?

SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays. Higher SPF blocks slightly more, but no sunscreen blocks all UVB rays. Higher SPF does not last longer or let you skip reapplication. Apply enough of whichever SPF you choose.2

How to apply sunscreen

1. 1Apply your morning skin care first. A gentle cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen form the basic sequence; sunscreen goes after moisturizer.
2. 2Apply sunscreen to dry skin before going outdoors. Allow 15 to 30 minutes and follow the timing on your label.
3. 3Use at least 1 teaspoon for your face. Most adults need about 1 ounce to cover all skin not covered by clothing; larger bodies can need more.
4. 4Cover exposed areas, including your nose, ears, neck, shoulders, hands and feet. Apply an SPF 30 or higher lip balm or lipstick to your lips.
5. 5Reapply at least every two hours outdoors, following the package directions. Always reapply after swimming or sweating.

Powdered sunscreen is an option for a quick touchup, not a substitute for your main sunscreen or protection for the whole day.4

Do you need sunscreen in winter or indoors?

Wear sunscreen when going outdoors, even briefly, in winter and on cloudy days. Clouds and haze do not protect you from the sun. Water resistance is useful even without swimming because it helps sunscreen stay on when skin gets wet.1

UVA can reach your skin through home and office windows and a car windshield. Include sunscreen in your morning routine rather than saving it for days when you expect to burn. A lack of sunburn does not mean a lack of exposure.4

Sunscreen is only one part of protection. Seek shade, particularly between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., and wear protective clothing and sunglasses. Choose a wide brimmed hat: a baseball cap or visor leaves the ears and sides of the face exposed. Sunscreen is not a reason to spend longer in the sun.1

What skincare ingredients are useful after 60?

For dryness after menopause, a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid or glycerin can help. Apply moisturizer after bathing and whenever skin feels dry. Use a mild cleanser instead of drying soap. If skin is easily irritated, choose a fragrance free moisturizer. Persistent dryness needs a dermatologist's assessment rather than more home exfoliation, which can harm thinner skin.5

Vitamin C helps support collagen, the protein that gives skin structure, and can reduce the appearance of fine lines and brighten skin. Choose an opaque container because light can inactivate vitamin C. Retinol helps skin shed old cells and can reduce fine lines, but it can irritate sensitive skin. Regular use can start showing improvement in about three months. A thin layer of moisturizer before retinol can help if retinol is irritating. Avoid doubling up on retinol in both a serum and a moisturizer.4

When should you see a dermatologist?

Skin cancer risk increases with age. Arrange a skin cancer screening and ask how often to examine your own skin. Have an apparent age spot assessed before treating it: skin cancer can look like a dark spot, and fading it can delay diagnosis. See a dermatologist for a lasting rash or a worsening skin condition.5