Beach season is around the corner, and we can hardly wait. So while we stand by for all the memorable, sun-filled days spent by the ocean, there’s no better time than now to prepare our sunscreen arsenals.
It’s safe to say we all know how crucial wearing SPF is. But with so much information and products on the market, how do we know which formulas to use and the best application techniques to practice?
Luckily for us, Dr. Dhaval G. Bhanusali, a celebrity board-certified dermatologist at Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery—whose clients include Hailey Bieber and Martha Stewart — shared his top tips for effectively shielding against UV rays.
From his honest take on mineral sunscreens to the keywords to look out for on labels, here’s his foolproof guide to solid suncare.
ONE SIZE DOESN’T FIT ALL
Are mineral sunscreens — a.k.a. formulas infused with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide — a must for delicate complexions? Not always. “Previously, it was believed that [they] were better for sensitive skin, but with improved formulas and science, there is no longer such a divide,” Bhanusali explained. If you are a fan of physical blends, we’re loving the Future Screen SPF 50 Modern Mineral Skinscreen from Ultra Violette.
YES, YOU NEED TO WEAR SPF INDOORS
The expert reminded Us that you’re not only susceptible to UV damage when you’re in the sun: “UV rays can penetrate through glass and are even present during the cloudy days when you expect it least.”
PAY ATTENTION TO LABELS
Bhanusali encourages choosing a sunscreen with “at least an SPF of 30 or higher” and making sure “broad-spectrum” is on the packaging. His go-to? The Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Mineral Face Liquid Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 70, as it “goes on invisible and blends really well.” Not to mention, it’s “hydrating and [great] for all skin types.”
DON’T NEGLECT BODY PARTS
“One of the best anti-aging hacks I teach my patients is to apply sunscreen to the neck, décolletage and back of hands,” he shared. “While it may not seem important now, it makes all the difference when someone gets older.”
RETHINK YOUR POST-BEACH BRONZE
“A tan is actually the sign of your body trying to protect itself after injury,” Bhanusali says. “A sunburn is really the result of cell death. The hyperpigmentation you get later is directly because of the decisions you make today,” he emphasizes. And if you’re currently trying to minimize the intensity of dark spots, we recommend a radiance booster like Mother Science’s Molecular Hero Serum.
THE TRICK TO PROPER SPF APPLICATION
“Apply about two finger-lengths of sunscreen and reapply every two hours or so, especially if out in the sun,” the dermatologist says. “I like [using] three finger-lengths a bit better, so there’s enough for the neck as well.”
THE TRUTH ABOUT MAKEUP-INFUSED SPF
“There are a lot of tinted sunscreens [and powders] that can help improve the appearance of skin,” he notes, adding that the latter is best suited for “reapplication” purposes only. We’re fans of these two trusty picks: La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios Tinted Mineral Sunscreen and Colorescience’s Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50.
STOP BELIEVING THIS MYTH
“All sunscreens don’t cause a white cast,” he stresses. “We have much better formulations these days, and many of my patients use sunscreens underneath their makeup and have no issues at all.”
DOUBLE-DUTY MUST-HAVE
If you’re looking for a vacation SPF that also doubles as a great makeup primer, Bhanusali suggests EltaMD UV Skin Recovery. “The green tint helps offset any redness you have and goes on the skin seamlessly.”
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