SPF: 43 | Sunscreen type: mineral | Key ingredients: zinc oxide (14.2%), rice extracts, vitamin C, resveratrol | Fragrance-free: yes | Shades: 3
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a sunscreen glowy?
“The main ingredients that give the sparkly glow effect are silica and mica,” says David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. He notes that for added dewiness, hydrating ingredients like squalane and glycerin help, too.
How do I pick the right sunscreen?
Above all, your sunscreen of choice must have broad-spectrum protection that meets the recommended minimum rating of SPF 30, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Thankfully, protection and glow aren’t mutually exclusive, and there’s a lot of variety. Consider whether you want a chemical or mineral option (mineral sunscreens tend to be better for sensitive skin, while chemical sunscreens blend in easily), your skin-care goals and concerns, and the texture and finish you prefer.
How much sunscreen should I apply?
“A good sunscreen is designed so that half a teaspoon of product can be applied to the face and neck without cakiness or greasiness,” explains Elyse Love, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. Squeeze out an extra teaspoon, however, if you’re applying larger areas like arms, legs, chest, and back. And remember: UV protection doesn’t end with the first application. “Reapply every two hours at a minimum but more often if sweating or emersed in water,” Miam-based board-certified dermatologist Roberta Del Campo, MD, previously explained.
Sunscreen best practices apply whether you’re staying indoors or venturing outside. “There is a bit of a trade-off working from home as you may now be getting more blue light exposure,” says Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. “UV light, especially UVA, can travel through windows, so unless you have zero windows in your home, you are still susceptible to UV damage.” Make sure you’re adhering to the dermatologist-recommended amounts of sunscreen if you have direct sun exposure, period.
Meet the experts
- Shereene Idriss, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and founder of skin-care brand Dr. Idriss
- Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the director of cosmetic and clinical research of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City
- David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City
- Roberta Del Campo, MD, a based board-certified dermatologist based in Miami
- Elyse Love, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
- Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
