Ideally, look for SPF 30 or higher. Know your skin type: If you have dry skin, choose a face sunscreen with hydrating ingredients, says Dr. Zeichner, like hyaluronic acid or ceramides. If you have oily skin, look for sunscreens that have a matte finish.
Which sunscreen is best for daily use?
Dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which blocks 97 percent of the sun's UVB rays. Higher-number SPFs block slightly more of the sun's UVB rays, but no sunscreen can block 100 percent of the sun's UVB rays.
Should you apply sunscreen on damp or dry skin?
When reapplying, always dry your skin first. Never apply sunscreen to wet skin. If the sunscreen says it's "water-resistant," check the label for how long that resistance lasts in the water. It will either be 40 or 80 minutes, as the FDA explains, but never longer.
Can I use sunscreen instead of moisturizer?
If you're using a chemical sunscreen, it needs to be applied first. This is because chemical sunscreen needs to penetrate the skin in order to provide protection. However, if you're using a physical sunscreen (also known as mineral sunscreen), sunscreen should be applied after moisturizer.