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We get it: sunscreen can really be a drag. It's often sticky, smelly, and heavy. The thing is, wearing it is absolutely vital to your health and also the appearance of your skin. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Debra Jaliman explains that wearing the product can prevent a multitude of issues. "Sunscreen should be worn to prevent fine lines, wrinkles, brown spots, and other pigment irregularities but most importantly to help prevent skin cancer," she said.
Fortunately, there are a lot of great sunscreens that are comfortable on the skin, nice-smelling, and ultralightweight. You just need to know which to buy, and they don't have to be expensive, either. There are plenty of affordable choices at the drugstore in both mineral and physical varieties.
Not sure which to go for? Dr. Jaliman advises that those with sensitive or acne-prone skin stick to mineral varieties (also known as physical) because they're much less irritating than their chemical counterparts. "A physical sunscreen contains mineral ingredients, such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, and it sits on top of the skin to deflect and distribute damageing UV rays away from the skin," she explained.
Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, work by absorbing the UV rays and changing them into heat, then releasing it from the skin. It's important to make sure your chemical sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays. If you prefer the feeling of a chemical sunscreen, the dermatologist also has some advice. "Look for the ingredients octinoxate or Mexoryl SX, because they block both UVA and UVB rays," she said.
Regardless of whether you want a mineral or chemical formula or are looking for a lotion or spray, there's sure to be a product you'll love in the aisles of your favourite store. Ahead, you'll see our top picks for SPF at the drugstore.