The 3 Best Sunscreens, According to Bobbi Brown

Sunscreen is a product that uses mineral filters like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to block the sun’s harmful rays from damaging skin. Sunscreen comes in many different forms, from liquid to sprays, sticks, and even packaged into SPF moisturizers or foundations. They can be water-resistant and sweat-resistant for outdoor activities, or fragrance-free for sensitive skin. Some sunscreens also include hydrating or nourishing ingredients, like vitamin e oil or hyaluronic acid.

Wearing sunscreen is an important part of a beauty routine, whether you’re adding makeup on top or not. Prolonged exposure to the sun can result in sunburn or skin cancer, but even limited exposure to UV rays can lead to lasting skin damage, like wrinkles or increased sensitivity. The active ingredients in mineral sunscreens filter out the harmful elements of sun exposure, providing sun protection and saving the skin’s coloring and elasticity from both UVA and UVB rays.

For acne-prone skin, consult with a dermatologist and try a few different testers to make sure and find formulas made specifically for sensitive skin.

Sunscreen should be the first step in any lineup of beauty products. If your moisturizer has SPF, apply that first; if not, apply the sunscreen then the moisturizer. Make sure to cover your entire face, the tip of your nose, the tops of your ears, your hairline, your neck, and your decolletage.

According to Bobbi, opt for mineral sunscreens that don’t leave a white residue. She says, “when looking for a sunscreen, make sure it's not white coated, because then your makeup is not going to work well.” These are her suggestions for everyday wear—with or without makeup.

1. 1. ZincScreen 100% Mineral Lotion SPF 40 by Supergoop!: A lightweight fully mineral sunscreen formulated for skin sensitivities.
2. 2. UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 by EltaMD: Hyalauronic acid is one of the primary active ingredients in this sunscreen, that works to beautify while protecting the skin.
3. 3. Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 55 by Neutrogena: A liquid sunscreen that goes on clear and smooth.

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