What is the best sunscreen for your face?
How to choose the best sunscreen for your face
Skin cancer experts agree that it’s essential to wear a broad-spectrum, SPF 30 sunscreen all day, every day, especially in the summer months. If sunscreen isn’t right for your skin type, it can cause irritation, blockages, break-outs and even allergies.
90% of skin ageing is caused by sun damage, which means it’s vital that you wear a minimum of SPF30—daily and ensure it’s a broad spectrum formula. But there are lots of other factors to consider when deciding what the best sunscreen for your face is.
Which Sunscreen is best for Me?
If you have fair or sensitive skin, look for a sunscreen specifically formulated for sensitive skin, fragrance-free or hypoallergenic. Read our blog about sunscreen for sensitive skin for more info.
If you have dry or mature skin, choose a moisturising sunscreen for dry or mature skin. Seasick Sunscreen is enriched with coconut oil and shea butter making it highly moisturising!
If you have oily skin and your pores get blocked easily then our sunscreen might not be the best for your skin. This is because it’s made with oils
Which SPF rating should I use on my face?
SPF15 sunscreen provides about 94% UVB protection, but protection is increased to 97% with SPF30 and to 98% with SPF50+. Dermatologists recommend wearing SPF 30 sunscreen or above.
People living in Aotearoa New Zealander (and Australia) are now advised to apply sunscreen every day when the UV index is predicted to reach 3 or above (Whiteman et al., 2019)
When the UV index is 3 or above, sunscreen should be applied. You can find out what the UV index is each day here.
Use a broad spectrum sunscreen
Check your sunscreen before you buy to ensure it is broad-spectrum, which means it contains both UVA and UVB protection. This is crucial for both face and body sunscreen!
Can you wear Seasick Sunscreen under makeup?
Yes! Our sunscreen sinks into your skin quickly and is non-greasy making it perfect for wearing under makeup.
“Under makeup it works a treat; no pooling in the facial lines (euphemism for wrinkles).” Juliette, Eco-blogger
Warm a small amount of sunscreen in your palms and it glides onto your skin beautifully. watch our how to apply our sunscreen guide for more details
“A little goes a very long way. I couldn’t believe that tiny amount required to cover my face.” Juliette, Eco-blogger
These are just some of the factors to consider when selecting the best sunscreen for your face and skin type. We've tried to make the choice easy for you by creating sunscreen that is ideal for sensitive skin but also can be used on the rest of your body too! You don't necessarily need a different sunscreen for your face and your body.
References
D. Whiteman, R. Neale, J. Aitken, L. Gordon, A. Green, M. Janda, C. Olsen, P. Soyer, 2019.
When to apply sunscreen: a consensus statement for Australia and New Zealand. Report on behalf of the Sunscreen Summit Policy Group,
Australian and New Zealand journal of public health, 43(2), 171-175.