Sunscreen and UV Protection

Solar protection: Face and body sunscreens

We know how important sun protection is through summer, but did you know that sun exposure, even in the fall and winter, can lead to visible signs of premature aging? We’ve created a range of broad-spectrum, anti-pollution sunscreens using innovative methods and the power of plants. Take advantage of the best facial sunscreen on the market and use them year round as part of your daily skincare routine.

Achieve superior sun protection with our expertly formulated SPF 50 sunscreen for both your face and body. Our broad-spectrum sunscreen for the face shields against UVA and UVB rays while defending against pollution and environmental stressors. Explore our solutions to find the best sunscreen for your skin type.

The importance of sunscreen

Using sunscreen for your face and body isn’t just for beach days — daily protection is essential, even on cloudy or cooler days. Whenever you expose your skin to the sun, you need sunscreen to help reduce the risk of early skin aging from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays: UVA and UVB.

UVB rays cause sunburn — leading to visible redness, inflammation, and a painful burn that you’ll feel for a couple of days while your skin recovers from the damage. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin, leading to long-term effects like wrinkling and premature aging. Both types of ultraviolet rays can cause skin cancer. Applying sunscreen daily, combined with other sun protection measures, helps reduce your chances of getting skin cancer.

However, don’t think that sunscreen is only for the summertime. UV rays are just as harmful during the winter months. Snowy days can significantly increase UV exposure, which makes them especially harmful to your skin. UV rays also can penetrate window glass, exposing your skin to potential damage even while driving to work or sitting at your desk.

SPF 50 sunscreen is a good strength to help shield your skin from these effects while maintaining a healthy, youthful complexion. Protect yourself daily with a high-performance sunscreen that fits seamlessly into your skincare routine.

How sunscreen works

A daily multi-protection sunscreen not only helps protect your skin from the sun. It also locks out pollution and free radicals, forming an invisible shield that minimizes the appearance of dark spots and decreases the risk of early signs of skin aging.

Sunscreens come in two main varieties: chemical and mineral. Chemical sunscreens are made up of active ingredients that absorb UV rays before they can penetrate your skin. Physical sunscreens, on the other hand, contain minerals such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which act as a physical barrier to the sun's rays. Both are effective, so selecting your sunscreen should come down to your skin type and personal preference.

How to choose the best face sunscreen for you

When choosing a sunscreen, you’ll notice that each tube displays an SPF number. This stands for sun protection factor. It’s an indication of the product's ability to block rays and a gauge of the amount of time you can be in the sun before burning. SPF ratings start at 2 and can reach as high as 100. If you burn after 10 minutes of sun exposure without any cream, an SPF of 15 will allow you to stay in the sun for up to 150 minutes without burning. An SPF 50 sunscreen is ideal for those seeking maximum protection against sun exposure, making it a great option for everyday wear.

Both chemical and mineral sunscreens are effective, so selecting your sunscreen should come down to your skin type and personal preference. When selecting the best face sunscreen for oily skin, look for oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog pores. When looking for the best sunscreen for sensitive skin, opt for a gentle, fragrance-free formula with minimal ingredients. Additionally, try to avoid products that contain parabens, fragrances, and alcohol, as these can be irritating to the skin.

How to apply face sunscreen

For optimal protection, apply face sunscreen generously as the final step in your morning skincare routine. Smooth an even layer over your face, neck, and décolleté, and reapply every two hours when outdoors. Remember to include often-missed areas like the ears, hairline, and tops of the hands for full coverage.

Frequently asked questions about face sunscreen and sun protection

Our experts have answered some of the most frequently asked questions about protecting skin from harmful UV rays.

Does sunscreen expire?

Yes, all sunscreens have an expiration date, typically found on the packaging. Expired sunscreen may lose its effectiveness, so it’s best to replace it yearly to maximize protection.

Does sunscreen prevent tanning?

While using a sunscreen for your face significantly reduces UV exposure, some minimal tanning may still occur over time. However, wearing the sunscreen will help protect your skin from the damaging effects of prolonged sun exposure.

How long does sunscreen last?

Typically, sunscreen protection lasts two hours, depending on whether you are swimming or sweating a lot. Those activities may cause the sunscreen to wear off faster. Reapplying throughout the day is recommended for optimum protection.

Is sunscreen bad for you?

Not at all! Dermatologists recommend daily sunscreen use as one of the best ways to maintain healthy, youthful skin. Clarins' sunscreen is formulated with skin-loving botanicals, offering powerful protection without compromising skin health.