What are Supergoop sunscreen's active ingredients?

Which active ingredients are in each formula?

These are US formulas, and the Unseen entry is specifically the stick, not another product carrying the Unseen name. Supergoop advises checking the ingredient list on the package you receive because formulas can change. The full product name matters here, even if the front of the package would rather be on first name terms.2

What are the active ingredients in sunscreen?

Sunscreen active ingredients protect skin from ultraviolet radiation, usually shortened to UV. Manufacturers must list those ingredients on the label. For an ingredient check, start with the section marked "Active Ingredients", rather than the highlighted extracts on the front of the package. The percentages beside the names tell you the listed strength of each active in that particular formula.34

Are these Supergoop sunscreens chemical or mineral?

All three formulas in the table are chemical sunscreens. Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both as active ingredients; hybrids combine mineral and chemical actives. Chemical, mineral and hybrid sunscreens all form a protective layer that absorbs the sun's rays. Mineral sunscreens also reflect rays. Any of these types can protect skin effectively when the product offers broad spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher and water resistance.5

Do higher ingredient percentages mean better protection?

Use the finished product's SPF and broad spectrum labeling to judge protection, rather than ranking bottles by one ingredient percentage. SPF is measured through testing of the sunscreen's ability to protect against sunburn, which is caused mainly by UVB rays. Broad spectrum testing measures protection against both UVA and UVB. The two claims answer different questions: SPF describes sunburn protection, while broad spectrum confirms coverage of both types of UV radiation.6

SPF 50 does not last longer on skin than SPF 40. Higher SPF filters slightly more UVB, but no sunscreen blocks all UVB rays. Reapplication still matters, even with a higher number on the bottle. Water resistance is a separate tested claim, expressed as either 40 or 80 minutes, not a promise that sunscreen is waterproof.456

Which formula fits the way you use sunscreen?

• Choose PLAY Everyday Lotion for a hydrating lotion you can apply across face and body, with the longer 80 minute water resistance interval. Supergoop describes a lightweight feel and natural finish.
• Choose Unseen Sunscreen Stick for a portable format designed for application over makeup. Supergoop describes a velvety, invisible finish and reduced appearance of oil and shine.
• Choose Every. Single. Face. if you want the watery lotion format with SPF 50. Its water and sweat resistance interval is 40 minutes.

Every. Single. Face. is a watery lotion, with a product name that takes three full stops to introduce itself.3

What else should you check in the ingredient list?

The inactive ingredients differ too. PLAY includes glycerin and aromatic ingredients such as orange peel oil, lemon peel oil and eucalyptus leaf oil. Unseen Stick lists silica, meadowfoam estolide and tocopherol. Every. Single. Face. lists denatured alcohol, dimethicone and glycerin. If you are checking for a particular ingredient, read both sections of your exact package: matching sunscreen actives does not mean matching the rest of the formula.123

How do you apply and reapply them?

1. 1Finish your skincare routine before applying PLAY or Unseen Stick. For the stick, remove the cap and clear plastic disc, then twist the base to expose the sunscreen.
2. 2Apply generously and evenly to dry, exposed skin 15 minutes before sun exposure. General dermatology guidance is at least 1 teaspoon for the face and about 1 ounce for most adults' exposed skin.
3. 3Cover easily missed areas, including ears, neck, tops of feet and exposed scalp. Swipe the stick generously and evenly across face and body; it can also be used over makeup.
4. 4Reapply at least every 2 hours outdoors. Reapply PLAY after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating, and Unseen Stick or Every. Single. Face. after 40 minutes. Reapply all three immediately after towel drying.

Apply sunscreen every day you will be outside, including cloudy days, to skin not covered by clothing. Sunscreen alone cannot fully protect you: seek shade and wear protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses. Sun protection is not a treatment course with a result to wait weeks for; these products' directions specify application before exposure and repeated application during the day.35

What if your skin is sensitive?

For sensitive skin, dermatologists recommend mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. That makes a mineral formula a more relevant starting point than choosing between these three chemical formulas by percentage. For children aged 6 months and older, dermatologists also recommend zinc oxide or titanium dioxide because these ingredients are less likely to irritate sensitive skin.4

Do not apply these products to damaged or broken skin. Keep sunscreen out of the eyes and rinse with water to remove it. Stop use and ask a doctor if a rash occurs. For children younger than 6 months, ask a doctor before use. Keep the containers away from excessive heat and direct sun.3