“Sun damage is the number one cause of premature aging, and our skin has already begun its own natural aging process by the time we reach our 40s,” says Massachusetts-based licensed aesthetician Carolee Brown. “Our body is now breaking down collagen faster than it’s producing it, which means the skin doesn’t heal itself as quickly and sun damage takes a greater toll than when we were younger.” Plus, past sun damage starts to wreak havoc, making the appearance of dehydration, fine lines, and age spots more obvious than they used to be. (To get rid of age spots on your hands, try these three dermatologist-recommended treatments.) “The best sunscreens for aging skin provide broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, while also correcting signs of aging using powerful antioxidant ingredients,” says Joel Schlessinger, MD, board-certified dermatologist and RealSelf contributor. (It’s also important to keep your brain young! Cut your risk for Alzheimer’s with the natural plan in Prevention’s Ageless Brain.) We turned to experts to find the best sunscreens for mature skin. Their nine recommendations below will protect your skin and keep it looking youthful:
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
This lotion contains zinc oxide and octinoxate, which protects skin from pesky UV rays and prevents future signs of photoaging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. It also contains niacinamide, an ingredient that helps minimize redness. “This makes it especially wonderful for acne irritation and post-procedure care,” says Schlessinger. Bonus: It’s oil-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and transparent, making it suitable for any skin type. Buy now: $26-35, lovelyskin.com; amazon.com; dermstore.com MORE: 10 Best Foundations For Every Age And Skin Type
SkinMedica Total Defense Plus Repair SPF 34
SkinMedica Total Defense protects skin against UVA, UVB, and infrared rays using titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and other sun filters, says Schlessinger. It also helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and sun damage with powerful antioxidants. Niacinamide calms the appearance of redness, while green tea extract and vitamin E help protect skin against damaging free radicals that cause premature signs of aging. (Make sure you follow these .) Buy now: $39-65, amazon.com; lovelyskin.com
Aveeno Absolutely Ageless Moisturizer with SPF 30
The best sunscreens protect you from further UV damage (and, you know, skin cancer), while also stimulating production of new elastin to help restore youthful elastic recoil, says Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of clinical research in the Department of Dermatology at Mount Sinai in New York. The combination of blackberry and dill extract found in Aveeno’s Absolutely Ageless Moisturizer has been shown to rev up skin’s elastin production, he says, helping your skin bounce back to its original shape when stretched. Buy now: $16-22, amazon.com; ulta.com; target.com MORE: 12 Things Dermatologists Who’ve Had Skin Cancer Want You To Know
Paula’s Choice Resist Super Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30
Resist Super Light Wrinkle Defense by Paula’s Choice is mineral-based and provides superior sun protection without chemical additives or irritating ingredients like alcohol, essential oils, or fragrance, says Florida-based holistic skincare expert K.D. Gates. This particular formula is overflowing with age-fighting antioxidants and leaves a silky matte finish. (If you’re over 40, try adding these eight natural beauty recipes to your skincare routine.) Buy now: $32, amazon.com; nordstrom.com; dermstore.com Here’s what you need to know about adult acne:
Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid-Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30
“Neutrogena’s Clear Face Liquid-Lotion Sunblock is a lightweight liquid formula that glides smoothly over skin without tugging,” says Gates. “Not to mention, it’s one of the few choices for women of color—it doesn’t leave a white cast.” (When applying sunscreen, don’t skip these three commonly overlooked spots.) Buy now: $11-17, ulta.com; amazon.com
Obagi Medical Sun Shield Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 50
In terms of complete protection, this sunscreen tops the charts, says Schlessinger. A blend of zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and chemical sun filters helps protect against UVA and UVB rays that cause signs of aging and sunburn. Not only is this tinted lotion available in both warm and cool shades to enhance your natural undertones, but it features infrared technology to protect skin against heat-related stress. The fact that it’s dermatologist-tested, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic is just an added bonus. Buy now: $44-49, lovelyskin.com; amazon.com MORE: 5 Signs Of Skin Cancer Other Than A New Mole
Epionce Daily Shield Lotion Tinted SPF 50
In addition to providing 100% mineral sun protection using titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, Epionce Daily Shield Lotion Tinted SPF 50 protects against the infrared rays that penetrate skin more deeply and cause free radical damage, says Schlessinger. It’s also deeply moisturizing and remains water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it one of the best sunscreens for warm weather activities. (Looking for the best sunscreen for working out? This runner tested five kinds to find the best one.) Its universal tint encourages a more even skin tone, making it great for wearing alone or as a primer for makeup, he adds. Buy now: $38, epionce.com; dermstore.com
50 Fierce Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Moisturizer and Sunscreen
“This sunscreen from Robin McGraw Revelation protects you from sunburns, as well as UVA (aging) rays that break down collagen and lead to premature aging,” says Jessica Wu, MD, board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles, California. It’s especially important to use sunscreen if you’re using a retinoid or vitamin C product to fight the signs of aging, as these can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Buy now: $50, amazon.com MORE: 5 Ways You Could Be Sabotaging Your Skin Without Even Knowing It
SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50
When we’re on the hunt for the best sunscreen for our face, many of us forget about protecting the all-important eye area. “The eye area is extremely delicate and vulnerable to sun damage, meaning it’s one of the first areas of the face to show signs of aging,” says Schlessinger. “A sunscreen developed especially for eyes is crucial for rounding out your sun protection routine.” SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50 is one of the best sunscreens to get the job done. This 100% mineral sunscreen can be applied to the under-eye area, and even directly on the lid with no stinging or burning. The formula also includes ceramides to gently nourish skin and provide a smooth canvas for makeup, says Schlessinger. (You can also prevent wrinkles by investing in a silk pillowcase, like one of these 13 comfy picks.) Buy now: $30-42, lovelyskin.com; amazon.com
