Ask any dermatologist, and they will say that sunscreen is the one step you should never skip before heading out of the house, regardless of the forecast. Applying sunscreen (and reapplying throughout the day) protects the skin from harmful UV rays, lowering the risk of premature wrinkles, dark spots, and even skin cancer.

We want to be prepared to have some fun in the sun, but safely! The best way to show the mothers in your life that you care is to give them the gift of skin protection. So how do you know which sunscreen makes the best choice for your clients? There's a lot to choose from, from chemical and physical sunscreens to lotions and sprays. When choosing the right sunscreen for the perfect Mother’s Day gift, here are some factors to consider.

Choosing sunscreen based on skin tone

From fair to dark, each patient you’re working with will have different melanin levels in their skin. To provide the best possible care, we need to be mindful of how each sunscreen will look on different skin tones. Some sunscreens are well suited to lighter skin tones but aren’t formulated to complement darker skin tones — and vice versa.

While every sunscreen is different, here are some essential tips to help guide your choice by skin tone.

Protecting darker skin tones

Darker skin tones may not get sunburned as easily as fairer skin tones, but darker complexions can still sustain damage that causes wrinkles, dark spots, and skin cancer. While darker complexions are less likely to develop skin cancer, studies show that when diagnosed, it’s often diagnosed late.

Some types of mineral sunscreens can leave a chalky residue on the skin. This white cast stands out more on darker skin tones. The best sunscreen formulas for this skin tone are usually thinner, gel-like consistencies that disappear into the skin.

Protecting fairer skin tones

Fair-skin tones tend to be more vulnerable to sunburns. Applying and reapplying sunscreen is a must. Experts recommend that people with a history of sunburns wear at least SPF 50 every day.

Choosing sunscreen based on skin type

Skin type can play a critical role in finding the right sunscreen. Some formulas might cling to dry patches, while others worsen oily skin.

To help your clients find a sunscreen that complements and balances their complexion, here are some of the best recommendations based on skin type.

Dry skin

For patients with rough, dry skin, it’s better to recommend a sunscreen that adds moisture instead of taking it away. Steer clear of thick or drying formulas and turn towards sunscreens with a moisturizing effect. Look for sunscreens containing moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin.

Normal skin

For people with normal skin, their complexion tends to be relatively balanced already. Most sunscreen options will work on someone with normal skin, whether gel or cream. This gives you more room to recommend different sunscreens, depending on the texture and effect that the patient prefers.

Oily skin

For oily skin, it’s best to look for sunscreens that will help control oil production. Stay away from water-based or gel formulas that can create a shiny, oily effect. Instead, look for products with a matte finish. Ingredients like green tea, tea tree oil, or niacinamide can also benefit oily skin.

Acne-prone skin

The wrong ingredient can make skin problems even worse for inflamed and acne-prone skin. Look for lightweight formulas designed for oily or sensitive skin to help control sebum production without irritating.

Sensitive skin

Just like with acne-prone skin, it’s essential to be mindful of ingredients when working with someone who has sensitive skin. Avoid ingredients like alcohol, fragrances, oxybenzone, para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), and salicylates. Instead, look for soothing ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are less likely to cause a reaction.

Choosing sunscreen based on lifestyle

Another important factor to consider is lifestyle. The amount of time a person spends outside — and what they’re doing — can play a role in their ideal sunscreen choice.

Sunscreen is still a must if they spend most of their time indoors. Mobile device lovers and people who work from home still need to be mindful of the UV they’re exposed to through device and computer use. The sun’s rays can also pass through windows and penetrate clouds, so SPF should be a part of everyone’s daily routine, regardless of where they spend their time.

Waterproof sunscreen can make an excellent choice for those who spend a lot of time outdoors. A waterproof option should handle sweat, exertion, and even high-intensity sports like running or swimming.

No matter how active someone is, the sunscreen they apply in the morning won't stay effective all day. For best results, reapply sunscreen every two hours.

Sunscreen recommendations from Portrait providers

Mother’s Day is arriving soon, so it’s time to start thinking of thoughtful gifts. What is a better gift to give than sun protection?

Whether you’re picking products out for a mom in your life or treating yourself on this holiday, we’re here to help guide your choice. We asked our providers to recommend some of their must-have sunscreen products, from gel formulas to tinted moisturizers.

EltaMD^Ⓡ Face Sunscreen

The EltaMD^Ⓡ oil-free face sunscreen is recommended by several of our skincare experts. With niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and lactic acid, this formula helps calm and protect sensitive skin. These active ingredients can also help promote a glowing complexion, keeping your skin healthy.

“I love EltaMD^Ⓡ because it’s lightweight with maximum protection,” said Juli Bromley, RN. “It has a light and silky texture that can easily be worn alone or under makeup.”

ALASTIN^Ⓡ HydraTint Sunscreen

Our providers recommended tinted moisturizers for everyday wear to provide light coverage and a beautiful glow. The all-mineral, broad-spectrum ALASTIN^Ⓡ HydraTint sunscreen offers a blurred, glowing appearance.

The hydrating formula makes this sunscreen an excellent makeup base, while the SPF 36 protects the skin from harmful UV rays.

ZO^Ⓡ Smart Tone Sunscreen

The ZO^Ⓡ Smart Tone Sunscreen is a great lightweight and versatile choice. Its defining feature is the self-adjusting tint that color corrects your skin and provides flattering coverage for all skin tones.

The lightweight, hydrating formula gives you a healthy glow. In the meantime, the antioxidant complex and UV protection can provide a potent anti-aging effect.

Cal Derma Sunscreen

According to Portrait provider Crystal Coatney, PA-C, sunscreen is the most potent weapon against aging. “The most potent and strongest anti-aging cream out there is sunscreen. It’s something you can just add in every morning," she said.

She recommends her brand, Cal Derma, by Crystal Coatney, PA-C. This ultra-light, clear sunscreen has titanium oxide and zinc oxide — plus a potent dose of hyaluronic acid — to protect the skin while keeping it dewy and refreshed.

Revision Intellishade^Ⓡ

An excellent choice for all skin types, the Intellishade^Ⓡ anti-aging tinted moisturizer is formulated to protect, conceal, brighten, and hydrate skin.

While it protects skin from UVA/UVB radiation and restores the skin’s youthful appearance, it also comes with a powerful blend of antioxidants. These extracts, peptides, and antioxidants can improve skin tone's redness, fine lines, brightness, and evenness.

Giving mothers the gift of sun protection

Finding the right sunscreen for your loved ones is a thoughtful way to show you care and helps them make a long-term investment in the health of their skin. In addition to the powerful anti-aging effects of UV protection, using a formula suited for individual skin types can bring benefits that last a lifetime.

Want to learn more about sun protection products? Contact a Portrait specialist today.