The Best Sun Protection (SPF) Products! And What Type is BEST!

Sun Protection Factor or SPF is a confusing subject. When I was a skin care trainer there was always many questions about sun care products such as: what is best, safest and easiest to use. Lets break a few things down and highlight a few of our favorite SPF products! 

Physical v Chemical SPF 

The two types of sunscreen include physical and chemical. 

Physical SPF is derived from minerals such as Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide. It acts as a barrier to deflect UV rays. 

Chemical SPF contain different ingredients that are used to absorb the rays before they reach the skin. Such as avobenzone, octobenzone and octisalate. 

There are pros and cons to each type of sun protection. 

PHYSICAL SPF is considered more natural and safe. They tend to not be clogging like the chemical sunscreen and protect against both UVA and UVB rays. 

The biggest con is that the products tend to not rub in as well or leave a white cast. 

Chemicals on the other hand may rub into the skin easier but are not considered natural. They can sometimes only protect against UVB rays and recently over 78 different products were found to contain benzene in trace amounts. 

Overall my choice for our family is Physical 100% for my kids. We love the John Wayne Cancer Foundation SPF for them (I like this one that is a stick).

I like to use a tinted SPF such as ELTA MD for my daily face SPF. 

The most important factor is using a SPF you enjoy using!

I believe in the powerful benefits of the sun like Vitamin D and getting out into the sun to promote better sleep. Letting your skin be exposed to the sun during non-peak hours is great! But you can get those benefits on your body while still protecting our face.

If you are looking to prevent damage such as fine lines and wrinkles and hyperpigmentation SPF is key! Along with a hat and using antioxidants in your skincare routine.

I would love to hear below what your favorite SPF product is!