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There are three reasons why I’d consider myself an authority on sunscreens for pale skin. One, I’m naturally a pale person; two, I test and write about beauty products for a living; and three, having lived in Asia — where the sunscreen selection is absolutely unparalleled — I’ve tried just about every innovative sunscreen under the sun. Though I could list dozens of sunscreens that hold a special place in my heart, dermatologist Nava Greenfield, M.D., tells Bustle that the best sunscreens for pale skin have a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 to prevent burning and long-term skin damage. “Pale skin has less natural protection against UV damage and will need more protection than darker skin types,” Dr. Greenfield says, noting that all skin types still need daily sunscreen. “SPF 30 is the minimum, but I recommend not relying on only one product containing SPF for pale skin,” she says, adding that the best protection methods include vigilantly reapplying sunscreen, wearing a hat, and opting for UPF clothing when you’re spending an extended period of time outdoors. Beyond that, choosing the right sunscreen for yourself will mostly come down to skin type and formula preference. Whether you have super sensitive, redness-prone skin or hate the feeling of traditional sunscreens, I guarantee you’ll find at least one intriguing option ahead.
The Expert
Dr. Nava Greenfield, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist with Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City. She specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology and has been published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment and the Journal of Women’s Dermatology.
Shop The Best Sunscreens For Pale Skin
In a hurry? Here are the best sunscreens for pale skin:
You should be wearing sunscreen every day, no matter what your skin color or type. But while you might be able to get away with just a face sunscreen on days when you’re covered up in long pants and a coat, if you’re spending time outside, you’ll need sunscreen for any exposed areas of your body, too. Reapplying sunscreen every two hours (or immediately after swimming or sweating) is also crucial to preventing sun damage and sunburn when you’re spending any prolonged time outdoors.
What’s The Best Way To Apply Sunscreen?
Ideally, you should be applying your sunscreen 15 minutes prior to leaving the house, using about an ounce to cover your body and a half teaspoon for your face and neck. Also, don’t forget those oft-neglected areas (like your ears, your eyelids, and the tops of your feet), and if you’ve gone swimming, reapply your sunscreen as soon as you step out of the water.
Follow those steps, and your skin should stay properly protected from the sun. (That said, us pale people may want to take additional measures to keep our skin safe by wearing sun hats, staying in the shade whenever possible, and as Dr. Greenfield suggests, wearing UPF clothing.)
What’s The Difference Between Mineral & Chemical Sunscreen?
You’re likely already familiar with mineral and chemical sunscreens, but for a quick refresh, this refers to the active ingredients listed on your sunscreen that are responsible for protecting your skin from the sun’s rays. Mineral sunscreens are also sometimes referred to as physical sun blockers and will be listed as either zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (or a combination of both). These mineral filters sit on top of the skin to shield you from UV rays and are known for being more sensitive skin-friendly and more environmentally friendly (chemical sunscreen ingredients are known to damage coral reefs).
Any active ingredient in a sunscreen that isn’t zinc oxide or titanium dioxide falls under the chemical category, but more specifically, includes a combination of oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, and homosalate. These ingredients work by sinking into the skin and absorbing UV rays (which is why you’ll want to allow 20 to 30 minutes for chemical sunscreens to sit on the skin before heading outside). While chemical sunscreens can be more irritating to those with sensitive skin and contribute to coral bleaching, they’re sometimes preferred for their ability to absorb into the skin without leaving behind any white cast (though there are certainly mineral formulations that achieve this, too).