The derm says: “Using SPF 50 or higher is fantastic, but you are all your exposures that occur over your lifetime—increasing your risk of premature aging and brown spots."—Doris Day, MD, dermatologist in New York City and cohost of The Gist on YouTube
Prevent new spots:
The derm says: “Apply your normal sunscreen to your lips too, and carry an SPF lip balm for frequent reapplication. There are even tinted lip stains with SPF now."—Elyse Love, MD, dermatologist in New York City
Go for:
The derm says: “There’s a common phrase: ‘Black don’t crack.’ But it does. It’s true that darker skin has some natural protection from the sun, but it’s nowhere near the SPF recommended for daily use. Luckily, sunscreen has been revolutionized in the past decade. There are plenty of sheer versions that don’t leave a white cast on darker skin."—Elyse Love, MD
A good option for all skin tones:
The derm says: “I hear that vitamin D excuse a lot, but there’s no good evidence that sunscreen leads to a vitamin D deficiency. The reality is, sunscreen isn’t perfect and can’t filter out all the rays, so you’re still getting exposure just being outside. The best way to up your vitamin D level is to eat a healthy diet that includes foods naturally rich in the vitamin, like salmon and tuna. And maybe take a supplement, depending on your deficiency level."—Tiffany Libby, MD, dermatologist and Mohs surgeon in Providence, Rhode Island
Try:
The derm says: “If your daily work requires you to be outside on the beach, it’s especially important to wear sunscreen and use sun-protective measures. Make sure you have a reapplication sunscreen ready—lotions give better coverage, but sticks, sprays, and powder formulas are also good for touch-ups. Keep in mind that the sun’s rays are typically strongest from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., so it would be a good sun-safety measure to schedule your filming around those hours. Try earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon—a sunset shoot!"—Tiffany Libby, MD
A smart duo:
The derm says: “You should have different sunscreens for different purposes. There are now more options than ever, so it may just take some trial and error before you find one you like for everyday wear. SPF 30 sunscreens are great for the face, and a tinted version can be used instead of foundation. Keep the sticky, higher-SPF formulas for when you’ll be in direct sun for more than 15 minutes."—Leslie Baumann, MD, dermatologist in Miami, Florida
We like:
The derm says: “This is excellent—very few people actually reapply. If you want to do so without ruining your makeup, SPF powders are good."—Elyse Love, MD
Try:
The derm says: “The weekend warrior effect is related to how skin responds to intermittent sun exposure, not necessarily the amount of time exposed. If you’re planning to spend several hours in the sun, consider sun-protective clothing and hats. They can be more effective than SPF because they provide consistent protection and you don’t have to worry about application errors or reapplication."—Elyse Love, MD
We like:
The derm says: “If you have oily skin, you’ll prefer a gel-based SPF rather than a cream. Avobenzone can sting the eyes, so try to avoid that ingredient, and choose a water-resistant formula that won’t run."—Leslie Baumann, MD
A derm favorite:
The derm says: “One of the key terms to look for on the label is ‘water-resistant.’ This means the product’s SPF will be maintained whether you’re in or out of the water. Some are water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, and others for up to 80 minutes. You still have to reapply, but this offers adequate sun protection if you are engaging in water activities. As annoying as it may be, it’s a good habit—and the most effective method of protection—to reapply every time you get out of the water."—Tiffany Libby, MD
