In order to protect the (facial) skin from premature aging, it makes sense to apply a day cream with a sun protection factor or sunscreen for the face all year round. In summer at the latest and especially for children, sunscreen is particularly important. We explain what you should look out for when buying and which is the best sunscreen for the face.
Both UVA and UVB rays damage the skin. Both are types of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. While UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and the increased risk of skin cancer, UVA radiation is responsible for premature skin aging and skin problems – and shines all year round, even on cloudier days and even through the glass window. Broad-spectrum sun protection can protect against this – and this should ideally be worn all year round, at least on the face, to avoid fine lines, pigmentation, coarsening of the skin or loss of collagen and, of course, to protect the skin from further damage. When the sun is shining strongly, it is of course important to protect yourself and especially children from dangerous UVB rays with a good sunscreen for your face. A sun protection factor with the broadest possible spectrum offers a high level of protection and is recommended for all skin types. According to Ökotest, two sunscreens for the face are particularly worthwhile.
In its June 2023 issue, Ökotest tested various sensitive sunscreens. Two out of 21 scored “very good” and can be recommended with a clear conscience because they are well tolerated, free from irritating substances, protect the skin and also do not contain perfume or alcohol. This year, Ökotest placed particular value on strong UV protection and mild care. These brands performed very well.
According to the Ökotest, Lavera Sensitiv Sonnenlotion 30 is one of the best sunscreens for the face tested. According to the manufacturer, it offers reliable, mineral immediate protection for sensitive skin. Mineral UV filters, organic sunflower oil and organic coconut oil as well as a waterproof formula are intended to provide protection, but also reduce the risk of sun-related skin irritation, sun allergies and Mallorca acne and are also suitable for neurodermatitis sufferers. The sunscreen is vegan and the bottle (excluding the cap) is made from 97 percent recycled material.
Alverde’s sunscreen also received a “very good” rating from Ökotest.
In addition to Alverde and Lavera, Nivea is also a brand that often performs well in tests, including this year’s Ökotest. The sun milk from Nivea got a “good” and according to the manufacturer offers waterproof protection, contains aloe vera and antioxidants and is effective immediately after use. It is also suitable for adults and children alike.
Not an Ökotest product, but recommended by users and considered sustainable: the i m natural cosmetics Sun Protect LSF 30 sun lotion. It is waterproof, protects with mineral broadband sun protection in organic quality and comes without nanoparticles and whitening effect.
When applying the chosen sun protection, Ökotest recommends taking two finger lengths of cream for the face, neck and other parts of the body. Regularly topping up the chosen sunscreen for the face is also important. And don’t forget the places like earlobes.
The sunscreen should also be applied thickly and carefully all over. At best, apply the sunscreen a few minutes before going out, as not all products work immediately.
You can find the complete test results from Ökotest here for a fee.
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