The Birchbox Guide To: The Best SPF For You

Luckily, there are tonnes of different types of sun cream with couldn’t-be-easier ways to layer protection into your daily routine. But, how do you know which to choose in the sea of bottles (and sprays, and creams). Below is some important SPF intel - along with some of our top picks of various formulas - so you can find which ones are right for you.

What's All The Fuss?

Here’s what New York dermatologist Daniel Belkin, MD says: “The purpose of sun cream is to prevent ultraviolet light from damaging your skin cells. Over time, exposure to the sun’s UV rays leads to DNA damage that contributes to photoageing.” Belkin adds, “chronic sun exposure accelerates normal ageing by damaging the way our skin makes collagen, leading to loose, wrinkled, or discoloured skin.”

You’ve probably heard of UVB and UVA rays, but what is the difference between the two? According to Belkin, “a general rule of thumb is that UVB rays cause sunburn and skin cancer, and UVA rays cause photoageing.” SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is measured exclusively by UVB rays, so it's crucial to look for sun creams that protect from UVA rays, which will be labelled “broad spectrum” and help prevent early skin ageing.

And when it comes to application, stick to the shot glass measurement. Although that’s probably a little more than you would need to cover your whole body, it’s a nice rule of thumb.

Now that we've established the basics, here's how to pick the best formula for you.

Mineral SPF

These sun creams are made with plants and other naturally-derived ingredients that form a physical blocker, causing them to reflect the sun’s rays like a mirror. Their formulas boast gentler ingredients that are great for sensitive skin. According to Belkin, “mineral blockers are good ways to ensure you are getting broad spectrum coverage as they block both UVA and UVB rays.”

We love:

NISL Eco Barrier Non-Chemical Sun Cream SPF 50

This all-star SPF made with lavender, sunflower and chamomile oil protects your skin from the harmful effects of the sun, never leaves an unsightly white cast, sinks in quickly and sits beautifully under make-up.

Chemical SPF

Not all sun cream chemicals are created equal. These lotions contain the main active ingredient avobenzone, which absorbs the sun’s rays and converts them to energy that is less damaging to the skin. According to Dr. Belkin, “chemical absorbers, or ‘organic blockers’ have been used safely for decades and the use of the word “chemical” can be misleading.”

We love:

Rituals The Ritual Of Karma Sun Protection Milky Spray
This velvety, lightweight spray not only provides unmatched SPF protection, but it also nourishes skin with a blend of antioxidants. Thought it couldn’t get better? The formula is water-resistant and the spray-on design makes it easy to apply to hard-to-reach areas.

Multitaskers

We’re living fast-paced lives, so why shouldn’t we be reaching for skincare products that work just as hard as we do? These formulas wear many hats in your routine (Reminder: So should you when you're out in the sun!).

We love:

Mimitika Face Sunscreen SPF 50
This lightweight formula acts as a 2-in-1 day cream and sun cream. It’s chock-full of antioxidant vitamin E to deeply hydrate and further protect your skin, never leaves any white residue and creates a smooth base for seamless make-up application.

BB Creams and Tinted Moisturisers

The true workaholics of the beauty world, these creams are part moisturiser, part sun cream and (because they’re tinted) part make-up.

We love:

Bobbi Brown BB Cream SPF 35
This dewy does-it-all formula perfects skin in five different ways by minimising blemishes, brightening, moisturising, diminishing the appearance of fine lines, and defending against UVA/UVB rays.

Origins GinZing SPF 40 Energy-Boosting Tinted Moisturiser
This SPF 40 moisturiser juggles several tasks at once: it protects skin from sun damage, deeply hydrates, evens out skin tone with a natural-looking tint, and bestows a pretty, energised glow.