Selecting a sunscreen that’s right for you is just as important as finding the perfect cleanser or any other step in your skincare routine.
Skipping sunscreen can lead to premature skin aging, a compromised skin barrier, uneven tone, increased sensitivity, sunburns, and a greater risk of skin conditions—including skin cancer.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services classify UV radiation as a proven human carcinogen. Sunscreens are designed to scatter, reflect, or absorb UV rays before they can damage the skin.
Sunscreen isn’t just the last step in a facial service—it should be used 365 days a year.
So how do sunscreens work?
Sunscreen is rated by its SPF (Sun Protection Factor). You’ve likely seen SPF 15, SPF 30, and up to SPF 50 for the face—and even SPF 75 or 100 for the body.
But what’s the real difference between SPF 15 and SPF 100? Does a higher number mean stronger protection? Let’s break it down.
The SPF formula:
SPF rating × the time it takes you to burn without protection = estimated minutes of protection
For example, I use SPF 30 daily. It takes about 180 minutes (3 hours) for my skin to show signs of burning with no sunscreen.
SPF 30 × 180 minutes = 5,400 minutes, or 90 hours of protection—in theory.
Sounds unrealistic, right? That’s because this coverage assumes perfect conditions—like in a lab.
In real life, sweating, swimming, rubbing, uneven application, UV intensity, and weather all reduce sunscreen effectiveness.
That’s why the FDA and dermatologists recommend reapplying sunscreen at least every 2 hours.
How much UV is being blocked?
| SPF Level% of UVB Blocked |
| SPF 15 | ~93% |
| SPF 30 | ~97% |
| SPF 50 | ~98% |
| SPF 100 | ~99% |
This rating specifically refers to UVB protection, because UVB rays are what cause sunburn.
What about UVA rays?
UVA rays are known as the "aging rays." They penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to premature aging, DNA damage, and skin cancer.
For a sunscreen to protect against both UVA and UVB, it must be labeled “broad-spectrum.”
Facts to Know:
- The term “sunblock” is banned in the U.S.—no SPF blocks 100% of UV rays.
- Waterproof SPF does not exist. Products can only claim to be water-resistant for a specified time (e.g., 40 or 80 minutes).
- Sunscreens cannot legally claim protection for more than 2 hours or immediate protection unless FDA-approved with supporting data.
Breaking Down the 3 Types of Sunscreens: Chemical, Physical, and Hybrid
Chemical Sunscreens
These are made with organic (carbon-based) compounds that absorb UV rays, convert them to heat, and release it from the skin.
They’re lightweight and often cosmetically elegant, but may cause sensitivity in some.
⚠️ Those with reactive skin or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) may prefer physical sunscreens, as the heat conversion can trigger flare-ups.
Common chemical ingredients:
- Avobenzone 🛡️ Blocks aging rays (UVA) Protects your skin from long-term damage like wrinkles, dark spots, and skin aging.
- Octinoxate ☀️ Blocks burning rays (UVB) Helps prevent sunburn. Often used in daily face sunscreens and makeup with SPF.
- Octisalate 💧 Boosts protection and water resistance Mild UVB filter. Helps other ingredients stay effective and makes sunscreen last longer on the skin.
- Homosalate 🌤️ Adds extra UVB protection Supports higher SPF formulas and helps sunscreen spread smoothly.
- Oxybenzone🌞 Protects against both UVA & UVB Very effective but controversial. Some people avoid it due to possible skin and environmental concerns.
🧴 Note: Chemical sunscreens must be labeled broad-spectrum to ensure they cover both UVA and UVB rays.
Physical (Mineral) Sunscreens
Also called inorganic sunscreens, these use minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to reflect and scatter UV rays.
They offer natural broad-spectrum protection and are often better suited for sensitive, acne-prone, or reactive skin types.
Common physical ingredients:
- Zinc Oxide🧴 Blocks both UVA & UVB rays A gentle, all-around protector. Great for sensitive or acne-prone skin. Starts working right away and helps calm irritation.
- Titanium Dioxide ☁️ Blocks mostly UVB and some UVA Lightweight and less visible on the skin. Often used in tinted or makeup-friendly sunscreens. Also good for sensitive skin.
Hybrid Sunscreens
These combine both chemical and physical filters to:
- Maximize protection
- Reduce white cast (especially for deeper skin tones)
- Improve texture and finish
Hybrid formulas tend to be lightweight, elegant, and less chalky, making them a popular choice for everyday wear.
How Much Sunscreen Should You Use?
Even the best sunscreen won’t protect you if you’re not using enough of it. Here’s a general guideline to help ensure you're getting the coverage promised on the label:
✨ For the Face (and Neck):
Use a nickel-sized amount or about ½ teaspoon.
- An easy way to remember: Two full finger lengths (index and middle finger) of product.
- Don’t forget your ears, under the chin, neck, and hairline.
🌞 For the Body:
Use about 1 ounce (30 mL)—roughly a shot glass full—to cover the entire body.
- Reapply every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
- Be thorough: cover often-missed spots like the tops of the feet, back of the hands, behind the knees, and scalp (especially if hair is thin or pulled back).
💡 Tip: It’s better to apply too much than too little. Most people under-apply sunscreen and receive far less protection than the SPF rating suggests.
Huemetics Artistry Recommends:
At Huemetics Artistry, we retail both Hybrid and Physical SPFs under the Sparkling Skincare by Amethyst brand.
Lightweight hydration + sun defense
Formulated for daily use on the face and body, this crème provides UV protection while calming the skin with Japanese Green Tea, Vitamin E, and soothing botanical extracts like Ginkgo Biloba, Ginseng, and Licorice.
Key Ingredients:
- Zinc Oxide 7% (Z-Cote): Transparent, microfine mineral that blocks UVA/UVB.
- Octinoxate 7.5%: UVB absorber.
- Japanese Green Tea: Antioxidant-rich and anti-inflammatory.
- Ginkgo, Ginseng, Licorice Extracts: Revitalizing and conditioning for sluggish or sun-exposed skin.
☀️ Mineral Tinted SPF 30 (Physical – Coming Soon!)
Skincare + tint in one
A lightweight, mineral-based sunscreen with a natural tint that blends into most skin tones—perfect for everyday wear.
Formulated with Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, it provides immediate UV defense with added benefits from calming botanicals.
Key Ingredients:
- Zinc Oxide 6% & Titanium Dioxide 2.5%: Broad-spectrum mineral protection.
- Sodium Hyaluronate & Sodium PCA: Hydrate and retain moisture.
- Allantoin & Panthenol: Condition and soothe.
- Chamomile, Green Tea, Cucumber Extracts: Antioxidant-rich and calming.
- Iron Oxides: Even tone and provide natural tint.
In Summary:
Understanding sunscreen doesn’t have to be confusing—it’s about protecting your skin from damage you can’t always see. Whether you go for chemical, physical, or hybrid SPF, the key is consistent, daily use.
💌 DM with questions
🛍️ Shop online or schedule a Retail & Shopping appointment today!
