Which kind of sunscreen should I use

When it comes to selecting a sunscreen, Andrew Huberman and dermatologist Teo Soleymani recommend opting for mineral-based sunscreens, particularly those containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, because they have a safer profile compared to chemical sunscreens.

Here are the key points:

1. Mineral Sunscreens:

   • Ingredients: Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
   • Advantages: These ingredients are safe and highly effective at reflecting UV light. They don't have the same safety concerns as chemical sunscreens, which can act as endocrine disruptors 1 2.
   • Application: Choose lotions or creams instead of powders. Mineral topicals provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays 3.
     
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2. Chemical Sunscreens:

   • Concerns: Ingredients like oxybenzone and avobenzone in chemical sunscreens absorb UV light but can potentially disrupt hormones and penetrate the bloodstream, raising safety issues 4 5.
   • Use for Children: The American Academy of Dermatology suggests avoiding chemical sunscreens for children under six months, as their skin absorbs chemicals more readily 2.

3. Practical Considerations:

   • SPF Value: Aim for a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to ensure adequate protection since people often apply less than the recommended amount 3.
   • Consistency & Feel: Mineral sunscreens can feel pasty and thick. Choosing a product with a texture you find pleasant is crucial for regular use 5.

4. Additional Protection:

   • Physical Barriers: In addition to using sunscreen, wearing hats, long sleeves, and seeking shade can provide effective protection against UV damage 6.

By choosing a mineral-based sunscreen with a high SPF and incorporating physical barriers, you can protect your skin effectively while minimizing potential risks.

While specific sunscreen brands weren't emphasized in the discussions, the advice provided by Teo Soleymani can guide you in selecting effective products. Here are some key points:

1. Mineral-Based Sunscreens:

   • Ingredients: Look for those with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
   • SPF: Ensure a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to compensate for lower-than-recommended application amounts 1.

2. User Preference: Choose a sunscreen that you will use consistently. It's vital to select a brand that feels good and is cosmetically acceptable to you, as this will encourage regular use 1.

3. Safety Concerns: Be wary of chemical sunscreens as they may contain compounds that can cross the blood-brain barrier and potentially cause harm. Stick to mineral sunscreens to avoid these risks 2.

Although specific brands weren't mentioned, following these guidelines will help you select a safe and effective sunscreen.

Specific sunscreen brands weren't directly recommended in the discussions by Teo Soleymani and Andrew Huberman. However, they provided useful guidelines for selecting effective and safe sunscreens:

1. Mineral-Based Sunscreens:

   • Look for sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
   • Andrew Huberman suggests preferring zinc oxide as the active ingredient, especially if you are concerned about the potential risks of titanium dioxide 1.

2. SPF and Usage:

   • Ensure the sunscreen has an SPF of 30 or higher to provide adequate protection, as real-world application typically uses less product than recommended 2.

3. Cosmetic Acceptability:

   • Choose a brand that you find comfortable to use regularly. This includes how it feels on your skin and whether it integrates well with any makeup or skincare routine you might have 2.

These recommendations can help you choose a sunscreen that is both effective and suited to your personal preferences.