What should you check on the bottle?

Read both the active and inactive ingredients. The active ingredients provide protection from ultraviolet rays; the inactive ingredients make up the rest of the formula, so checking only the sunscreen filters leaves part of the ingredient list unread. Broad spectrum means protection against both UVA and UVB rays. SPF mainly describes protection against UVB, so a high number does not replace the words "broad spectrum".2

What if sunscreen stings or your skin is sensitive?

Avoiding alcohol is particularly relevant if you have rosacea: alcohol is among the ingredients recommended for avoidance because these products can irritate rosacea prone skin. Choose fragrance free rather than unscented products, and consider a cream instead of a lotion or gel. If sunscreen burns or stings, look for a fragrance free formula whose sunscreen filters are only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. A "sensitive skin" label is another useful starting point, but it does not replace checking the ingredients.13

For oily or acne prone skin, look for "noncomedogenic" or "won't clog pores" on the label. If a mineral sunscreen leaves a white cast, a tinted version that matches your skin tone can help avoid it. A tint can help avoid white residue, which is a finish nobody needs to add to their shopping list. Keep the same protection requirements when choosing a tinted formula.1

How should you use your sunscreen?

  1. 1Read the product directions, since instructions can differ between creams, sticks and sprays.
  2. 2Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure. Cover exposed skin, including your ears, neck, hands and hairline, while avoiding your eyes and mouth.
  3. 3Use enough for full coverage. About one ounce is needed to cover an average sized adult's body from head to toe; that is not a face only amount.
  4. 4Reapply at least every two hours, and more often when swimming or sweating. Check whether the label gives 40 or 80 minutes of water resistance.
2

What if you still cannot find a comfortable sunscreen?

If you have rosacea, test a new product before applying it to your whole face. If finding gentle products remains difficult, ask a dermatologist for specific options. Keep using shade and protective clothing alongside sunscreen; removing an unwanted ingredient does not replace the rest of sun protection.3

Where this answer comes from

  1. 1How do I know if I'm using the right sunscreen?aad.org
  2. 2Sunscreen: How to Help Protect Your Skin from the Sunfda.gov
  3. 37 rosacea skin care tips dermatologists recommendaad.org