What You Really Need to Know About Picking a Sunscreen

Your guide from Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut

When it comes to protecting your skin from sun damage, sunscreen is one of your most powerful allies. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right one—and using it correctly—can feel overwhelming. At Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut, we want to help you cut through the confusion and make smart, informed choices to protect your skin and your health.

Start with the Basics: What SPF Really Means

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays—the kind that cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer.

• SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays
• SPF 50 blocks about 98%

While SPF 50 may sound like it offers significantly more protection, the difference is only about 1%. For most people, SPF 30 is sufficient for everyday use—especially if you’re reapplying regularly. However, if you’re outdoors for long periods, have fair or sensitive skin, or are at higher altitudes or near water, opting for SPF 50 or higher is a smart choice.

Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreens: What’s the Difference?

Sunscreens fall into two main categories: chemical and mineral (physical).

• Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat. Common ingredients include avobenzone, oxybenzone, and octinoxate. These formulas are typically lightweight and absorb easily into the skin, making them great for daily use. However, some ingredients—particularly oxybenzone—have raised concerns about potential absorption into the body and environmental effects.
• Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to reflect UV rays off the skin’s surface. They’re often recommended for sensitive skin, and are less likely to cause irritation. The main downside? They can sometimes leave a visible white cast. Fortunately, newer formulations—like tinted or micronized versions—help minimize this issue.

Both types are FDA-approved and provide effective protection when used properly. Choosing between them often comes down to skin type, lifestyle, and personal preference.

You can read more about the pros and cons of sunscreen ingredients in this recent New York Post article.

Key Sunscreen Ingredients to Know

Not all sunscreens offer full-spectrum protection, which is why choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential. This means it protects against both UVA (which causes aging and deeper skin damage) and UVB rays.

When choosing a sunscreen, it’s helpful to understand some of the most common active ingredients—both chemical and mineral. These ingredients determine how the sunscreen protects your skin and how it feels when applied.

Chemical Ingredients:

• Avobenzone
  A key ingredient for UVA protection, avobenzone helps prevent premature aging and deeper skin damage. It’s often combined with other ingredients to stabilize its performance in sunlight.
• Oxybenzone
  Offers both UVA and UVB protection but has become controversial. Some studies suggest it may be absorbed through the skin and potentially disrupt hormones. It also raises environmental concerns, particularly regarding coral reefs. However, to date, there is no strong evidence linking oxybenzone to any adverse health effects. While still approved by the FDA, many people—especially those with sensitive skin or young children—may prefer to avoid it.

👉 Pro tip: If you’re concerned about oxybenzone, look for “oxybenzone-free” sunscreens or choose a mineral option instead.

Mineral Ingredients:

• Zinc Oxide
  A broad-spectrum mineral filter that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Zinc oxide is gentle on sensitive skin and is often recommended for people with rosacea, eczema, or for use on children. It can sometimes leave a white cast, although newer formulations reduce this issue.
• Titanium Dioxide
  Another mineral ingredient that protects primarily against UVB and short-wave UVA rays. It’s commonly found in mineral sunscreens and is also well tolerated by sensitive skin types. Like zinc oxide, it may leave a slight white residue unless tinted or micronized.

How (and When) to Apply Sunscreen

Using sunscreen properly is just as important as picking the right one.

• Use enough: Adults need about a shot glass–sized amount to cover the entire body.
• Apply early: Put it on 15–30 minutes before heading outside to give it time to absorb.
• Reapply often: Every two hours, or right after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying.
• Don’t forget the small spots: Ears, neck, tops of feet, scalp, and lips are commonly missed.

What to Do If You Get Sunburned

Even with good sunscreen habits, slip-ups can happen. If you get sunburned:

• Cool the skin: Use cold compresses, cool (not cold) showers, or apply aloe vera gel.
• Moisturize: Choose a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to soothe skin and prevent peeling.
• Hydrate: Drink plenty of fluids—sunburn can cause dehydration.
• Avoid more sun: Let your skin heal by staying out of direct sunlight.
• Know when to seek help: If you experience fever, chills, nausea, or blistering over a large area, consult a doctor.

Final Tips for Sun-Safe Skin

• Wear sunscreen every day, even on cloudy or cold days—UV rays can penetrate clouds and reflect off snow and windows.
• Use water-resistant formulas if you’re swimming or sweating.
• Check expiration dates—sunscreen loses effectiveness over time.
• Add extra protection with hats, sunglasses, and UPF-rated clothing.

The Bottom Line

Picking the right sunscreen isn’t just about the SPF number. Look for broad-spectrum coverage and get familiar with ingredients. If you are concerned about chemical sunscreens containing ingredients like avobenzone and oxybenzone, then opt for mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Most importantly, use sunscreen consistently and correctly.

Your skin is your body’s largest organ—and it deserves daily protection.

Need help finding the right sunscreen for your skin type or concerns? Schedule a consultation with a dermatologist at Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut. We’re here to help you stay healthy, protected, and confident in your skin.

🧴 And stock up on dermatologist-recommended sunscreen while you’re at it – click here to purchase our recommended sunscreens

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📍 Branford
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📍 Oxford
📍 Shelton
📍 Stamford
📍 Woodbridge

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