HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST SUNSCREEN

June 26, 2023 by Jack

How to Choose the Best Sunscreen

Sunscreen tends to be one of those topics that pop up every summer, but the reality is we should be talking about it year-round. Sure, the sun feels good, and everyone needs a little dose of natural vitamin D, but according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, one in five Americans develop skin cancer in their lifetime. But hey — nobody likes a killjoy. Perhaps you’ve had a bit of trepidation about sun protection because you don’t know what to look for or how to use it. Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Here’s how to choose sunscreen so you can seamlessly add it to your skincare routine regardless of the date on the calendar. 

What to Look For In Sunscreen

Choosing the right sunscreen doesn’t have to be complicated. However, there are a few vital basics to look out for to ensure you’re getting the best protection possible. How do I know which sunscreen is best, you ask? Look for the following inclusions. 

What to Look Out For When Buying Sunscreen

• The product label should clearly state the words “broad spectrum,” which means your skin is protected from both UVA (ultraviolet) and UVB (ultraviolet B) rays — and you must be safeguarded from both. UVA rays have a longer wavelength and are associated with skin aging, whereas UVB rays have a shorter wavelength and are correlated with skin burning. 
  
  
• SPF means “sun protection factor,” which indicates how well a sunscreen protects your skin. Should I use SPF 30 or 50, you ask? The short answer is a minimum of SPF 30, which blocks 97% of UV rays — SPF 50 only provides a slight upgrade to 98%. 
  
• Buyer beware: Sunscreens aren’t entirely waterproof, so if that’s what the label says, know that you’re probably being pulled into a marketing tactic. However, look for a formula that’s water resistant — or extremely long-lasting — for 40 to 80 minutes.
  
  
•  While it’s not necessary for sun protection, it’s a bonus if the formula also contains skin-loving ingredients like nourishing hydrators and antioxidants, such as vitamin C or E, that provide additional protection against UV damage.

Sunscreen Application Tips 

While you should always read the label and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, here are a few basic application techniques to get the most out of your sunscreen. 

• Don’t skimp out on the amount of sunscreen you’re applying. The average-sized adult needs approximately one teaspoon per body part, which adds up to about a shot glass worth of product. 
• Apply your sunscreen 20 minutes before heading outdoors so it has enough time to bind to your skin and provide optimal protection.
  
  
• Reapply your SPF every two hours or after sweating, swimming, and towel drying.

Reasons Why Your Sunscreen Isn’t Working

• You’re not using enough product.

• You are missing vital areas like the face, ears, lips, hands, feet, arms, chest, and legs.

• You’re not reapplying frequently enough — or at all.

• Your sunscreen has expired.

• The formula isn’t broad spectrum.

Other Ways to Protect Your Skin From the Sun

While staying in the shade — especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the most dangerous — other ways to protect your skin include sporting an umbrella wearing sunglasses, a hat, and sun-protective clothing, and eating a diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids to promote skin health. 

What Is the Best Sunscreen?

What is the #1 best sunscreen? Jack Black  Double-Duty Face Moisturizer SPF 20. We might be biased, but we stand behind our sunscreen for men. This lightweight, emollient formula that provides lasting hydration and helps improve the skin’s overall appearance. Broad-spectrum SPF 20 (Avobenzone and Octinoxate) with antioxidants help protect the skin from the damaging effects of environmental stress–including UV light, blue light, and pollution. 

Jack Black Dual Defense Face Moisturizer is a mineral sunscreen featuring broad spectrum SPF 30. This weightless, oil-free sunscreen and daily moisturizer provides hydration and protection from UVA and UVB exposure with a transparent finish and no chemical filters. It’s formulated with Hyaluronic Acid to deliver superior hydration, while a blend of organic Cranberry, Rosemary, and Green Tea provide antioxidant protection. 

Our Oil-Free Sun Guard SPF 45 Sunscreen is perfect for the active man. This vitamin-enriched, water- and sweat-resistant lotion offers superior broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and absorbs quickly without greasy or heavy residue. Formulated for extreme conditions, Sun Guard forms a barrier of protection and stays on during intense physical activity in and out of the water — and it won't run or drip into the eyes.

When it comes to sun protection, don’t neglect your lips. Our Lip Balm Sunscreen is an emollient balm enriched with superior skin conditioners and antioxidants that relieve dry, chapped, irritated lips. Unlike waxy sticks, Intense Therapy Lip Balm quickly penetrates for instant relief. SPF 25 offers optimum sun protection while guarding against windburn and extreme temperatures.