How to Choose the Right Sunscreen Margaret "Meg" Mercante

Margaret "Meg" Mercante, 
MD Candidate, Class of 2027 University of Virginia

School of Medicine

Water resistance is another crucial factor. Activities like swimming or outdoor exercise often result in sweat or water exposure, reducing sunscreen’s effectiveness. Choosing a water-resistant product ensures that your skin remains protected during these activities. However, it’s equally important to remember to reapply, as even the best sunscreens lose their effectiveness over time. Water-resistant sunscreens, which can last on wet or sweaty skin for up to 80 minutes. For sunscreens that are not waterproof or sweatproof, they will need to be reapplied every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

Dr. Nern also recommends considering your skin type. "If you have sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often a better choice because they’re less likely to cause irritation and are a very effective option." Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide act as physical barriers that sit on the skin’s surface, reflecting harmful rays away from the skin. Unlike chemical sunscreens, which absorb UV rays, mineral options are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions, making them ideal for children and those with delicate skin.

Sunscreen is the number one tool to fight skin cancer, the most common kind of cancer in the US. While sunscreen is an essential defense, it’s not the only measure you should take. Wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats, enhances your protection. Seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., further reduces your exposure to harmful rays.