Tips for choosing sunscreen for sensitive skin

Summer is finally here. We want to highlight the importance of proper sunscreen use, particularly for those with sensitive skin. It’s crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays while minimizing irritation. Here are some tailored recommendations:

General Guidelines for Sunscreen Use

1. Adequate Amount: Apply at least 2 full fingers of sunscreen to cover your face thoroughly. This amount ensures you achieve the SPF protection stated on the product.
2. Timing: Apply sunscreen 15-20 minutes before sun exposure. This allows it to fully absorb and start working effectively.
3. Daily Use: Use sunscreen even on cloudy days, as UV rays can penetrate clouds and cause skin damage.
4. Reapplication: Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating, to maintain effective protection.

Recommended Sunscreens

For sensitive skin types, choosing the right sunscreen is essential. Here are my recommendations based on your specific needs:

For Sensitive, Dry Skin

• EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 44: This lightweight, moisturizing sunscreen contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate dry skin while providing broad-spectrum protection. Its formula is gentle on sensitive skin and doesn’t leave a greasy residue, making it suitable for daily use.

For Sensitive, Acne-Prone Skin

• Neova SmartSunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40: Designed for acne-prone skin, this sunscreen contains advanced antioxidants and DNA repair enzymes to protect and repair skin. It’s formulated to be non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores or exacerbate acne.

Both of these sunscreens offer excellent protection while catering to the unique needs of sensitive skin.

Cleansing After Using Sunscreen

Proper cleansing after using sunscreen is essential, especially for sensitive skin, to prevent clogged pores and maintain healthy skin. Here’s how to do it effectively:

Why Cleansing Is Important

Sunscreen can mix with sweat, oil, and environmental pollutants throughout the day, forming a barrier that simple cleansing might not completely remove. Proper cleansing ensures that your skin is thoroughly clean and ready for your nighttime skincare routine.

Recommended Cleansing Routine

1. First Step: Jojoba Oil
• Why: Jojoba oil is excellent for breaking down sunscreen and other impurities without irritating sensitive skin. It closely resembles the skin’s natural sebum, making it an effective yet gentle cleanser.
• How to Use: Apply a small amount of jojoba oil to dry skin and massage gently in circular motions. This helps to dissolve sunscreen and other impurities. Rinse with lukewarm water or gently wipe off with a damp cloth.
2. Second Step: Enzyme Peeling Gel Or Any Hydrating Cleansing Milk 
• Why: An enzyme peeling gel helps to remove any remaining sunscreen and dead skin cells, promoting a clean and smooth complexion without the need for harsh exfoliation.
• How to Use: After using jojoba oil, apply a small amount of enzyme peeling gel to your face. Massage gently until the gel liquefies, indicating that it is exfoliating. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
3. Follow Up with a hydrating Orchid Serum Toner
• Why: The Orchid Serum Toner is ideal for soothing and hydrating sensitive skin after cleansing. It combines the benefits of a toner and serum, helping to balance the skin’s pH, hydrate, and prepare it for further treatments.
• How to Use: Apply a small amount to a cotton pad or directly onto your hands and gently press onto clean skin, focusing on areas needing extra hydration and care.
4. Moisturizing: Finish with a suitable moisturizer to hydrate and protect your skin barrier.

Additional Tips

• Gentle Techniques: Use lukewarm water and avoid scrubbing to prevent irritation.
• Patch Test: Always patch test new products before full application.
• Consistency: Cleanse thoroughly each evening to ensure all sunscreen is removed. 

Sensitive skin is our business: Anti inflammatory, soothes and repair.