Top SPF of 2023
You may or may not know that I am obsessed with sunscreen in various formulations. I’ll never stop posting about it. My whole life people were constantly misinforming me saying I didn’t need sunscreen because I don’t burn. First of all: Yes. I burn. Second: how does having brown skin translate to being heat resistent?
News flash: It doesn’t. So I apply and reapply sunscreen religiously. Its the most repurchased skin care products.
First and foremost,
Let me tackle the unpleasant side effects of prolonged sun exposure.
Picture yourself basking under the scorching sun, feeling its warm caress on your skin. It's lovely... until you realize that this seemingly innocent gesture is a cunning ploy by the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays to wreak havoc on your skin.
UV radiation, particularly UVB and UVA rays, is responsible for a multitude of skin sins. Wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, and that dreaded foe of youthful beauty—skin cancer—can all be attributed to the sun's merciless assault. Now, I don't know about you, but I'd rather not resemble a leather handbag by the time I hit my forties.
Enter sunscreen, our knight in shining armor. This magical potion, when applied liberally and diligently, forms an invisible shield on your skin, deflecting those treacherous UV rays away from their malicious intentions. It's like having a personal bodyguard, but instead of fending off paparazzi, it protects you from the harsh realities of the sun.
But you may ask, "But what about the potential harm of sunscreen itself?" Ah, a valid concern, my dear disciples. Allow me to address it with the finesse of a poet and the accuracy of a scientist.
There have been whispers in the realms of social media about certain ingredients found in sunscreen that might be harmful. Chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate have sparked debates, with claims that they disrupt hormones or harm the environment. While I must admit, some studies have hinted at potential concerns, the evidence is far from conclusive.
Here's the deal:
The benefits of sunscreen, including protection against skin cancer and premature aging, outweigh the theoretical risks associated with these ingredients. Plus, let's not forget that regulatory bodies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) continue to endorse the use of sunscreen for its undeniable protective properties.
Now, you may be wondering, "Are there alternatives to these so-called 'chemical sunscreens'?" Absolutely! Mineral sunscreens containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide are gaining popularity as safer alternatives. They work by physically blocking and scattering UV rays, rather than being absorbed into the skin like their chemical counterparts. So, if you prefer to err on the side of caution, these mineral options might be worth exploring.
SPF is not just an accessory for your beach tote—it is a vital weapon in the battle against sun-induced skin damage. The potential risks associated with certain sunscreen ingredients pale in comparison to the well-established benefits they provide. So, slather on that SPF with confidence.
Here are my 2023 winners:
Banana Boat Light As Air Sunscreen Lotion - SPF 50
Sulwhasoo Snowise UV Daily Cream
Thank You Farmer Sun Project Water Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++
Blue Lizard SENSITIVE Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide, SPF 50+, Water Resistant, UVA/UVB Protection with Smart Bottle Technology - Fragrance Free
Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF 50+ PA+++
Coola Refreshing Watercream: SPF 50
COOLA Organic Sunscreen SPF 30 Sunblock Spray
COOLA Sun Silk Face Sunscreen Drops with SPF 30 and Hyaluronic Acid
AHC Natural Perfection Double Shield Sun Stick SPF 50+ PA++++
PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50 with Sunflower Extract
Plumscreen® Broad Spectrum SPF 31 UVA/UVB/HEV PA+++
SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen (1 fl. oz
Iope UV Defense Sun Protector EX SPF 39
PHYSICAL FUSION UV DEFENSE SPF 50
Shiseido’s Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
Anthelios Ultra Light Sunscreen Lotion Spray SPF 60
Hydro UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50+
Sulwhasoo Perfecting Cushion SPF 50
The guideline I follow for sufficient coverage is approximately a shot glass worth of product for one application for the whole body or the equivalent of 2 finger lengths for the face.
If you're in direct sunlight, I absolutely must reapply every two hours, or anytime you get wet or perspire. This is despite clouds, rain, sleet or snow. I reapply with a goal of 5- 6 times a day. A common misconception is that applying makeup with SPF is sufficient for your everyday sunscreen wear: your SPF-laced makeup must be layered on top of a layer of sunscreen to be effective.
Sources:
1. American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) - The AAD is a reputable organization that provides guidance and information on dermatological topics, including sunscreen usage and its benefits. You can find information on their official website: https://www.aad.org/
2. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) - The FDA is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the safety and efficacy of various products, including sunscreens. Their website offers valuable information on sunscreen ingredients and regulations: https://www.fda.gov/
3. Skin Cancer Foundation - This nonprofit organization is dedicated to raising awareness about skin cancer and promoting sun protection. Their website provides educational resources and information on the benefits of sunscreen: https://www.skincancer.org/
Please consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist for personalized advice.
I want to hear your thoughts: leave a comment!
