Dermatologist's Sunscreen Warning: Which Type to Avoid

Lisa Bos · 2026-04-10

You know that feeling when you're standing in the sunscreen aisle, completely overwhelmed by options? Mineral, chemical, spray, lotion, SPF 30, 50, 100... it's enough to make you want to skip it altogether. But here's the thing—your skin's health depends on making the right choice. And according to dermatologist Annemiek Leeman, there's one type you might want to think twice about. Let's talk about why sunscreen matters more than you might realize. It's not just about preventing sunburn during your beach vacation. Daily sun protection is your skin's best defense against premature aging, dark spots, and most importantly, skin cancer. Think of it like brushing your teeth—it should be part of your everyday routine, not just something you do on special occasions. ### The Problem With Spray Sunscreens Here's where Dr. Leeman drops her professional wisdom. While spray sunscreens seem incredibly convenient—especially when you're trying to apply protection to wiggly kids or hard-to-reach spots—they come with some serious drawbacks. First, it's nearly impossible to apply an even, adequate layer. You might think you're covered, but you're likely leaving gaps where UV rays can sneak through. Second, there's the inhalation risk. Those fine particles can get into your lungs, and we don't yet know the long-term effects of breathing in sunscreen chemicals. Plus, sprays are notoriously wasteful—much of the product ends up floating in the air rather than on your skin.  ### What Actually Works for Daily Protection So if sprays aren't ideal, what should you reach for instead? Dr. Leeman recommends mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for daily facial use. These sit on top of your skin, creating a physical barrier that reflects UV rays immediately upon application. They're less likely to cause irritation, making them perfect for sensitive skin types. For body coverage on active days, she suggests traditional lotions or creams. Yes, they take a bit more time to apply properly, but that's actually the point—you're more likely to use enough product and cover all areas thoroughly. A good rule of thumb is to use about one ounce (roughly a shot glass full) for your entire body.  ### Building Your Sun Protection Habits Creating a sun-safe routine doesn't have to be complicated. Start by applying sunscreen every morning as part of your skincare ritual, even on cloudy days. UV rays penetrate clouds, and up to 80% can reflect off surfaces like water, sand, and snow. Reapplication is crucial too—every two hours if you're outdoors, and immediately after swimming or sweating. Don't forget that sunscreen is just one piece of the puzzle. Protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 AM to 4 PM) all work together to keep your skin healthy. As Dr. Leeman puts it: "Sun protection is about consistency, not perfection. Find products you'll actually use regularly, and make them part of your lifestyle." ### Reading Labels Like a Pro Next time you're shopping, look beyond the SPF number. While SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, what really matters is "broad spectrum" protection. This means the product shields against both UVA (aging rays that penetrate deep) and UVB (burning rays that affect the surface). Water resistance claims are important too—but remember, no sunscreen is truly waterproof, only water-resistant for 40 or 80 minutes. Here's what to prioritize when choosing your sunscreen: - Broad spectrum protection (UVA/UVB) - SPF 30 or higher for daily use - Mineral formulas for sensitive areas - Cream or lotion formulations over sprays - Products that feel comfortable on your skin At the end of the day, the best sunscreen is the one you'll use consistently. Whether you prefer a lightweight formula under makeup or a moisturizing cream for dry skin, find what works for your lifestyle and stick with it. Your future skin will thank you for these small daily investments in protection.