Should You Use Different Sunscreens for Your Face and Body?

Written by Alexandra Merlino

Today was my daughter's last day of school, and while it's cold and raining outside, the end of the school year signals that summer is approaching. In my household, we do a great job wearing sunscreen year-round on our faces, necks, and ears, but during summer months, we still have our fair share of burnt shoulders, thighs, backs, and necklines. This summer, I want to ensure our bodies and faces are protected. Is there a difference in the sunscreen we'll use to protect them?

YES, there is. Did you know that not all sunscreens are created equal? That's right - there's a difference between face and body sunscreen. In this blog post, we'll explore these differences and why it's essential to use both.

Why Does Sun Protection Matter?

First, a quick reminder about the importance of sun protection: the skin is your body's largest organ; caring for your skin is critical to your overall health, including protecting it from the sun. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. UV radiation from the sun is the leading cause of skin cancer, as well as premature aging and other skin damage. That's why it's crucial to wear sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days, during winter months, or rainy spring days like today.

How Does Facial Skin Differ from Body Skin?

Before diving into sunscreen differences, let's understand the differences between facial and body skin. As the body's largest organ, skin protects against germs, regulates body temperature, enables touch sensations, and shields us from harmful UV rays. But not all skin is the same - different areas have different needs.

Skin Cell Size:

The skin cells on your face are smaller than on the rest of your body. Since skin acts as a barrier, smaller cells mean less barrier protection, explaining why facial skin sensitivity and dryness are more common. Skin Thickness: Facial skin is thinner than body skin, with a thinner layer of fat underneath. This makes wrinkles more visible on the face and neck. The skin around your eyes and eyelids is the thinnest of all and highly sensitive. Oil Glands: You have significantly more oil glands on your face than on your body, making facial skin oilier and shinier. This oil lubricates skin and wards off bacteria. Hair Follicles: There are many more hair follicles on facial skin compared to the same size area on your body. Even though follicle density is high, facial hair is very fine. With follicles so close together, it's important to avoid clogging them to prevent pimples and acne breakouts.

What Makes Face Sunscreens Different?

Face sunscreens are formulated specifically for facial skin, which is typically more sensitive and prone to breakouts than body skin. Face sunscreens often contain gentler ingredients, are fragrance-free, and are less likely to cause irritation or breakouts.

Additionally, most face sunscreens are lighter weight and less greasy than body sunscreens, making them perfect for everyday wear. When choosing a face sunscreen, look for one you'll wear every day and be happy to reapply. Ensure it has an SPF of 30 or higher with broad-spectrum protection to shield against both UVA and UVB rays, which can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer.

What About Body Sunscreens?

Body sunscreens are formulated for arms, legs, stomach, and other skin surfaces, and are often thicker and more moisturizing than face sunscreens. Body sunscreen works well for preventing sunburns, but it can contain harsher ingredients you wouldn't want on your more sensitive face. Body sunscreens are generally less expensive per ounce than face sunscreens. When choosing a body sunscreen, look for one with SPF 30 and broad-spectrum protection, just as you would for face sunscreen.

Why You Need Both

Your face and body have different skin types and needs. Your face needs a lighter, non-greasy formula that won't clog pores, while your body needs a thicker, more moisturizing formula to protect larger skin areas.

Additionally, your face is more exposed to the sun than the rest of your body, making it more susceptible to sun damage. By using separate face sunscreen, you ensure your delicate facial skin gets the protection it needs.

The Bottom Line

The best sunscreen is one you'll wear every day. Sun protection is crucial for maintaining healthy skin, and choosing a formula you'll use consistently is key. By understanding the differences between face and body sunscreens, you can make informed decisions and ensure your skin remains protected throughout the summer. Choosing the right sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays. By using both face and body sunscreen, you ensure your skin receives the protection it needs, regardless of where you go. So go ahead and enjoy those long summer days - don't forget your sunscreen!