Your Skin Is Begging for Daily Sunscreen

There was a time when my morning skincare routine ended with moisturizer and not an ounce of SPF. As a person with melanated skin, it didn't feel particularly crucial, but in reality, my skin was begging for daily sunscreen. Thankfully, I've unlearned the many stereotypes about SPF, and now, it's become a nonnegotiable in my routine, even when I'm not spending time outdoors. (Fun fact: Your computer screen emits blue light that can cause damage to your skin.)

I've tested all kinds of sunscreens from mineral to chemical, tinted to sheer, and everything in between. As of now, there's one claiming the top spot: Neutrogena's Ultra Sheer Face Liquid Mineral Sunscreen. To put it simply, this invisible finish is elite. Finding SPF products that don't leave a white cast is no easy feat, but this is truly a sunscreen that you can't see. It's lightweight, non-greasy, and easy to apply at your vanity or on the go. This won't be the first or last time you hear about the importance of sun protection. I've enlisted Dhaval Bhanusali, M.D., to give us more insight into sun care below.

Marie Claire: There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about sun care. Can you dispel any of them for our readers?

Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali: I think in general, there are a lot of conspiracy theories about sunscreens causing cancer. To the opposite, sunscreen definitively can help decrease the chance of skin cancer, as well as sun damage and associated sequelae (pigmentation, collagen breakdown, etc.).

Marie Claire: Why is sunscreen such a crucial step in our skincare and bodycare routines?

Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali: It helps protect us from the negative effects of the sun and resultant issues. It's the most important part of any routine.

Marie Claire: What are some red flags our readers should look out for when shopping for sun care products?

Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali: I tend to recommend more scientific brands, those that do adequate testing to ensure the SPF is accurate and [the] product is safe to use. With smaller brands, a lot of times, the SPF may be inaccurate or be a generic formula.

Marie Claire: Sun care comes in a variety of forms, with different SPF levels, ingredients, and degrees of effectiveness. What tips would you give to someone who's trying to find the perfect sunscreen?

Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali: I always recommend a minimum of SPF 30 or higher. While I'm fine with chemical or mineral options, it's fine to look for other ingredients based on your skin type (niacinamide to calm or hyaluronic acid to help retain moisture). With the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Liquid Mineral Sunscreen , you have broad sun protection, antioxidants, and a hydrating yet lightweight formula that blends well on all skin types. Sticks are good options for kids or when you are in a pinch and on the go.

Marie Claire: If you could tell a sunscreen skeptic one thing, what would it be?

Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali: Always trust the science. Your older self will thank you.

Marie Claire: The market is saturated with SPF products. How do Neutrogena's sun care offerings stand out from the rest?

Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali: I'm personally big on formulas. Working on the development side, I can attest to the rigorous RD and dedication to science. Each formula is like a work of art, and the Neutrogena sunscreen offerings stand out because of it.