How To Choose The Best SPF For Your Skin Concern
June 1 | 3 minute read
Words by MECCA Memo
Originally published on January 27
Now we’ve settled that, let's talk about SPF for your skin type and concern. Not too long ago, it was almost impossible to find a sunscreen that offered serious sun protection while also giving your complexion exactly what it needs. Whether that was an extra dose of moisture if you have dry or dehydrated skin or a mattifying effect if you tend to veer into oily skin territory, it was never easy to find an SPF that precisely matched your skin type. But those days are long gone.
Innovation in sunscreen ingredients, formula, texture and finishes means there's now an SPF for every face. That excuse you had about sunscreen making you shiny or drying you out? No longer.
Here's how to find the right sunscreen for your skin concern.
Best sunscreen for dehydration
Ingredients to look for: A sunscreen with hydrating and nourishing ingredients (just like the ones you’d find in your skincare), like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, aloe vera, ceramides or glycerin, will give thirsty skin an extra drink of water.
Your formula fit: Something in a cream form that you'll be able to layer over your regular moisturiser – this will give your skin a double hit of moisture, with a dewy and supple finish (perfect for under makeup).
Try:
Emma Lewisham Sunceutical SPF 50 Mineral Face Crème
MECCA COSMETICA To Save Face SPF50+ Brightening Sun Serum
Best sunscreen for pigmentation
Ingredients to look for: You have options! Choose a chemical or physical (also known as mineral) sunscreen, and it's up to you whether your SPF is spiked with additional skincare ingredients or not. The most important thing when treating pigmentation: wear sunscreen every day!
Your formula fit: Take your pick: gel, lotion, serum or cream. You might want to customise the formula and finish depending on the seasons – maybe that's a lighter one in hot weather, and a thicker formula for the cooler months. Or, choose based on your plans for the day – perhaps a mattifying SPF if you’re outdoors, or a radiance-enhancing finish if you’re off to brunch.
Try:
MECCA COSMETICA To Save Face SPF50+ Superscreen
Go-To Nifty Fifty
Best sunscreen for uneven texture
Ingredients to look for: You'll want ingredients that will target and reduce skin's sebum production and keep things in balance. Think: niacinamide, tea tree oil or chamomile. While formulas with white willow bark will help control shine and reduce the appearance of pores.
Your formula fit: One that’s lightweight and absorbs quickly; anything too heavy won't play nice with your skin. Also look for a matte or semi-matte finish, to tamp down greasiness and excess shine.
Try:
MECCA COSMETICA To Save Face SPF50+ Brightening Sun Serum Matte
MECCA MAX SCREEN SAVER SPF30
Best sunscreen for breakouts
Ingredients to look for: You might benefit from a mineral sunscreen which uses zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as the active ingredient. These sit on the skin's surface (rather than being absorbed) acting as a physical barrier and therefore reducing the chance of clogging pores. It's also be a good idea to pick a sunscreen with some hydrating benefits; most acne treatments dry out the skin, so adding some moisture could help balance things out.
Your formula fit: Mineral, non-comedogenic, oil and fragrance-free, lightweight and water-based formulas are crucial as you don't want to block pores any further. When it comes to finish, a mattifying one could be good, but also don’t be afraid of dewy finishes if your skin tends to break out but doesn’t get overly shiny.
Try:
Naked Sundays SPF50+ Collagen Glow 100% Mineral Perfecting Priming Lotion
Emma Lewisham Sunceutical SPF 50 Mineral Face Crème
Best sunscreen for sensitivity
Ingredients to look for: Look for sunscreens made with proven skin soothers, like panthenol, madecassoside or allantoin to keep skin calm and collected. Bonus points if they’re dermatologically tested.
Your formula fit: Fragrance and alcohol-free is paramount, and this skin type generally prefers a mineral or physical sunscreen, where the active ingredients (zinc oxide and titanium oxide) shouldn’t burn or sting the eyes and are not likely to cause a reaction.
Try:
Go-To Nifty Fifty Mineral
Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense SPF30
ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. Sunscreen is only one form of sun protection. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and reapply as directed.
