How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Dry Skin

Dry skin is a common skin type that needs extra hydration and protection, especially from the sun. Sun exposure can dry out and damage the skin, causing premature aging, wrinkles, and skin cancer. Therefore, it is important to choose a sunscreen that suits the specific needs of dry skin and provides adequate moisturization and sun protection.

▪Factors to Consider When Choosing Sunscreen for Dry Skin

When choosing sunscreen for dry skin, there are several factors to consider, such as:

• Ingredients: Dry skin needs sunscreen that contains moisturizing ingredients that can hydrate the skin and prevent moisture loss. Some of the ingredients to look for are glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, fatty acids, shea butter, cocoa butter, aloe vera, and chamomile¹²³. These ingredients can help restore the skin's natural barrier and smoothness. On the other hand, some ingredients to avoid are alcohol, fragrances, and pore-clogging materials, as they can dry out and irritate the skin¹².

• Protection factor: Dry skin needs sunscreen that protects the skin from all types of sun rays, whether ultraviolet A (UVA), ultraviolet B (UVB), or infrared (IR). UVA rays can penetrate deep into the skin and cause aging and wrinkles, while UVB rays can cause sunburn and skin cancer. IR rays can also cause skin damage and inflammation. Therefore, it is advisable to choose a sunscreen that has a broad-spectrum protection, meaning that it blocks both UVA and UVB rays. The sun protection factor (SPF) indicates how well the sunscreen protects the skin from UVB rays. The higher the SPF, the more protection it offers. For dry skin, it is recommended to choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher¹²⁴.

• Water resistance: Dry skin needs sunscreen that can resist water and sweat, meaning that it does not lose its effectiveness and impact when exposed to water or humidity. Water-resistant sunscreens can help prevent the skin from drying out and cracking. The water resistance of the sunscreen is indicated by the number of minutes it can stay on the skin after being exposed to water. For dry skin, it is advisable to choose a sunscreen that has at least 40 minutes of water resistance¹².

• Type: Dry skin needs sunscreen that is suitable for its texture, color, and smell. The type of sunscreen refers to its form, such as cream, gel, lotion, spray, or powder. For dry skin, it is preferable to choose a creamy, gel, or lotion sunscreen, as they can provide more hydration and coverage than spray or powder sunscreens. Creamy sunscreens are also easier to apply and spread on the skin. Additionally, dry skin needs sunscreen that does not leave a white cast or change the skin's color, and that has a mild or no fragrance, as these can affect the skin's appearance and comfort¹²³.

▪How to Use Sunscreen for Dry Skin

To use sunscreen for dry skin effectively, there are some tips to follow, such as:

- Cleanse the skin before applying sunscreen, to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup that may interfere with its absorption.

- Apply sunscreen after toner and before moisturizer, to lock in the moisture and enhance its effects.

- Use a gentle patting motion to apply sunscreen, to avoid rubbing or pulling the skin.

- Use enough sunscreen to cover the entire face and neck, and any other exposed areas of the body. A general rule is to use about a teaspoon of sunscreen for the face and neck, and about a shot glass of sunscreen for the body⁴.

- Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going out in the sun, to allow it to sink into the skin and form a protective layer.

- Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if sweating or swimming, to maintain its protection.

- Avoid exposure to the sun during peak hours, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun rays are the strongest and most harmful.

- Wear protective clothing, such as hats, sunglasses, and long sleeves, to shield the skin from the sun.

▪Conclusion

Dry skin is a skin type that needs special care and attention, especially when it comes to sun protection. By choosing a sunscreen that suits the specific needs of dry skin and provides adequate moisturization and sun protection, dry skin can be hydrated, healthy, and beautiful. By following the factors and tips above, you can choose the best sunscreen for dry skin and use it effectively.