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You Don’t Have to Skip the Sunscreen!

Posted on August 20, 2015

According to a recent study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, only 43 percent of women “regularly use sunscreen on their face” and only 34 percent reported putting it on all exposed skin.

The physicians and staff at The Woodruff Institute for Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery counsel patients on a daily basis about the importance of wearing sunscreen, especially in south west Florida, so you can imagine our surprise when we found out so many women skip sunscreen.

We’ve tried hundreds of different sunscreens over the years and we’ve found some excellent products. You don’t have to skip the sunscreen! Keep reading to learn more about some of the sunscreens we’ve found that provide the protection you are looking for, in a formulation that feels great!

“I have to admit… I’ve not always been a sunscreen lover. I was guilty, like most young women, of skipping the sunscreen before heading out to the beach or pool. Most women don’t like sunscreens because they are greasy or cause acne breakouts. Well, ladies (and guys too) I am here to say that I have found a few sunscreen brands that you will LOVE!

I am a big fan of all the EltaMD products, not only because they provide physical broad-spectrum protection against harmful UV rays, but because they have created a luxurious formulation that feels great on my skin. Yes, you read this right… sunscreen that feels great!

I have acne-prone skin like many women, so one of my favorite sunscreens to wear on my face is the EltaMD UV Clear. I love it for so many reasons! The main advantage to this sunscreen is that you’re getting a superior barrier against the sun with an added bonus- it actually calms sensitive and acne-prone skin because of an extra ingredient called niacinamide. This is the perfect sunscreen for anyone who has sensitive skin because it protects and calms while having a lightweight silky feel. I never leave home without this stuff!

So I’m sure you’re wondering what makes EltaMD products so great? EltaMD is formulated with transparent zinc oxide to provide broad spectrum protection from both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. I’m sure you remember your mother’s zinc sunscreen. You know, the white stuff that you could never wash off. Well, EltaMD’s zinc formulation is truly transparent and is sensitivity and fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.

If you’re having a hard time getting your kids to apply their sunscreen, I highly recommend Blue Lizard sunscreen. The kids will love the fact that the bottle changes color in the presence of harmful UV rays and you will love the fact that it’s a physical sunscreen with broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection in a SPF 30+ formulation.”

–Nicole Habib, PA-C

“For a daily sunscreen, EltaMD UV Physical Tinted Sunblock is my absolute favorite, by far. I have tried numerous other tinted sunscreens and always return to the EltaMD. It is has zinc and titanium physical blocks in it, along with other antioxidants. Because it is not a chemical sunscreen, irritation or allergic reactions are very unlikely. It is also wonderful for acne patients or people who tend to break out from heavier sunscreens. The finish is slightly matte and it feels very light on the skin. It is not greasy and never “feels” like a sunscreen. I use it as the base for my makeup daily. Elta MD Physical was also one of the only products I could tolerate post-procedure with TCA peels and lasers. If you have very dry skin, Elta MD Physical may not be the best for you, but they do make a tinted moisturizer with sunscreen.

Florida is an incredible place that allows us to play outside year round. Unfortunately, sun protection in and out of the water and while sweating profusely in the summer heat can be a challenge. As a runner, who enjoys running outside, I have tried dozens of sport sunscreens. In the Elta MD line, the EltaMD Sport sunscreen is superior to most, if not all other sports sunscreens I have tried. Because Elta MD Sport is a zinc based sunscreen, there is no stinging or irritation from chemical sunscreens. It stays on well even after sweating through a long day time run and does not leave that unattractive white sheen. It is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, but I generally try to re-apply every hour for the best coverage if I am in the water.”

–Lianne Martin PA-C