Fair skin is particularly susceptible to sunburn and long-term UV damage, meaning that sunscreen is essential for anyone who has a paler complexion. As such, choosing the right sunscreen is crucial in ensuring that you get full protection from the skin aging effects of the sun. So, what is the best sunscreen for fair skin?
In this article, we’ll be looking at the features you’ll need to look for in sunscreen for fairer skin, so buckle up as we take you on a journey of discovery in sun safety.
What is the Best Sunscreen For Fair Skin? Here’s What to Know
When looking for the answer to the question “What is the best sunscreen for fair skin?”, you’re going to be looking for products that have a high sun protection factor. That means going for a product that has an SPF of 50 or over so that you get adequate coverage that will block 98% of the sun’s UV rays (so long as you reapply the product every two hours).
Here are some other features you’ll need to look out for.
- Broad-Spectrum Protection: When you go outside, your skin needs to be protected against both UVA and UVB rays in order to stay safe and healthy. Believe it or not, some sunscreens don’t offer protection against both. Whether you have fair skin or not, broad-spectrum coverage should be the bare minimum of what you expect sunscreen to offer.
- A Gentle, Non-Irritating Formula: While it’s not always the case, fairer skin tends to be more sensitive, so you should be looking for products that are gentle. What we mean are products that don’t contain unnecessary fragrances (designed to make the sunscreen more appealing) or UV filter chemicals that can irritate the skin. As such, look for terms like ‘fragrance-free’, ‘dermatologist-tested’ or ‘hypoallergenic’ in the sunscreens that you buy.
- A Hydrating Formula: Fair skin also tends to dry out more quickly than darker tones, especially after sun exposure. That’s why people with lighter skin should also look for sunscreen with built-in hydrating properties that can help maintain moisture levels while providing protection. Go for sunscreens containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides, which not only shield your skin but also keep it nourished and soft throughout the day.
What Is the Best Sunscreen for Fair Skin? It Has to Be Mineral-Based!
If you’re looking for a product that does all of the above and more, it simply has to be one that’s mineral-based. Containing super gentle ingredients like zinc oxide, they offer physical protection by reflecting UV rays away from the skin. This type doesn’t have to be absorbed, which automatically makes it a gentler option than chemical brands.
Zinc oxide sunscreens also offer broad-spectrum protection and contain hydrating ingredients to ensure your skin stays healthy and young-looking. They tick every box in this regard and they also happen to be better for the planet, as they don’t contribute to coral bleaching.
So, for anyone with fair skin that burns easily, sunscreen is not just a skincare product but a necessity. By choosing a mineral option with super skin-friendly ingredients, you can effectively protect your skin and avoid the discomfort that comes with sunburn.
