Which sunscreen is right for me?
No, it’s no fun having to put sunscreen on your kids before heading out into the sun—but protection is important. Even adults often underestimate how quickly UV rays can damage the skin. This guide provides a brief and practical overview of what to look for when choosing and applying sunscreen, so you and your family can enjoy the sun safely.
UVA and UVB Rays: Why Sun Protection Is Important
Even if you are a darker type and sunburn is rare or almost non-existent, you should protect your skin from the sun. To be more precise: from UV-A and UV-B rays.
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To the data protection settings "UV-B rays , in particular, can have dangerous consequences. They are primarily responsible for sunburn and can cause cancer in skin cells.
The skin can still "repair" itself after exposure to low doses of UV-B that damage the cells.
However, if you spend too much time in the sun, the skin cells can become so severely damaged that the body causes them to die off. If the skin can no longer keep up with the healing process, the damaged cells may mutate into cancer.
UV-A rays —which are more common in tanning beds—are less likely to cause sunburn, but they penetrate much deeper into the skin than UV-B rays. Deep within the skin, they destroy the elastic fibers and collagen that keep the skin firm. The result: wrinkles can form more quickly.
It is therefore important that the UVA label is also shown on the sun cream packaging. The stated sun protection factor (SPF) only refers to UVB radiation.
What is the UV index?
Before choosing a sunscreen, check the current UV index for your location. The UV index provides daily updates on the intensity of the sun’s rays—and helps you decide which SPF to use, what clothing to wear, and how long it’s safe to stay outside.
Read the related article to find out at what UV index you should take extra precautions.
What is the UV index, and why is it so important?
Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreens: Pros and Cons
There are two types of UV filters designed to protect the skin from the sun : chemical and mineral.
Chemical sunscreens
Most conventional sunscreens rely primarily on chemical UV filters.
Advantages:
- They are quickly absorbed into the outermost layer of the skin, where they provide UV protection and convert the radiation into harmless heat.
- They spread more easily on the skin and often feel lighter on the skin.
- They are often highly water- and sweat-resistant, making them ideal for sports or swimming.
By penetrating the outermost layer of the skin, chemical UV filters provide protection right where UV rays first strike the skin. The filters absorb the sun’s rays and convert them into harmless heat.
Disadvantages:
- May not be well tolerated by people with very sensitive skin or allergies.
- The environmental impact of some ingredients is viewed critically in some quarters.
Which chemical sunscreens are safe?
There is now a whole range of chemical UV filters that provide well-tolerated protection against UV radiation. Nevertheless, these sun creams should be used with caution: As the substances penetrate the skin, they not only put a strain on the liver, but can also trigger allergies.
List of conventional chemical filters with low allergenic potential and no proven hormonal effects in studies:
List of chemical sunscreens without hormonal effects
Mineral sunscreens
Mineral filters are made from natural white particles such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. All organic and natural sunscreens contain mineral filters.
Advantages:
- Form a protective film on the skin and reflect UV rays.
- They take effect immediately after application.
- They are particularly gentle on sensitive skin and suitable for children, as they barely penetrate the skin.
- They usually score points for their environmental friendliness.
Disadvantages:
- They often leave a visible white film on the skin.
- They can sometimes be a little harder to spread and have a thicker consistency in some cases.
- Occasionally offer lower resistance to water and sweat.
These days, many sunscreens combine the benefits of both types. The key factors are your skin type and the specific purpose for which you’ll be using it.
Even if it feels greasy and leaves a white cast, mineral sunscreens are often a better choice for sensitive skin and children. For sports or swimming, waterproof products—including chemical ones—are a good option.
Nanoparticles in Mineral Sunscreens: A Brief Explanation
But not everyone is a fan of mineral sunscreens. Since the small particles leave a white film on the skin and the texture is often very thick, many manufacturers of mineral sunscreens use nano-sized mineral particles. These are tiny and feel more fluid and comfortable when applied to the skin—they don’t leave as noticeable a white cast.
However, there is debate as to whether these tiny particles can penetrate the skin and thus endanger health. However, there is a lack of comprehensive studies to prove this. As long as there is no unanimous scientific opinion, it is best to use mineral sun creams that do not contain nanoparticles. All nano-sized particles must be labeled with the word "nano" in the ingredients (always in brackets after the respective filter).
List of mineral sun creams without filters in the critical nano range:
Sunscreen for children: Please use mineral-based sunscreen!
Even if it smears and leaves a white film: Most mineral light protection filters are harmless and therefore the best choice for children. As a general rule, chemical filters should only be used on children from the age of two. A child's liver is not yet powerful enough to break down the chemical filters. So while mineral light protection filters are generally harmless, you should take a closer look at chemical filters.
Checklist: Quick Guide to Applying Lotion
- Make sure that the sunscreen is effective against both UV-A and UV-B rays.
- Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before sunbathing so that the sun protection filters in the sunscreen can be effective in the epidermis.
- Use more sunscreen than you might think.5 to 6 tablespoons for the whole body ( 30 to 40 milliliters)
- Reapply at least every 2 hours - also after bathing, as at least half of the sun protection is lost through the water (even with waterproof sunscreens!)
- Reapplying sunscreen does not extend its protective effect!
- Avoid the sun when it is at its strongest - i.e. two to three hours around its highest point. The sun is not always at its zenith at 12 noon. In summertime, midday shifts by one hour due to the time changeover, so the sun is at its highest point in the sky at 1 pm. The position of the sun also depends on where you are in Europe.
FAQ
At what UV index should I be especially careful?
From UVI 3: Sun protection recommended; from UVI 6: Take strong protective measures; from UVI 8: Avoid direct sunlight.
What is the difference between UVA and UVB?
UVB rays primarily cause sunburn and increase the risk of skin cancer; UVA rays penetrate deeper and accelerate skin aging. Both are harmful.
Mineral or chemical sunscreen—which is better?
For sensitive skin and children, usually mineral-based; for water-resistant sports use, often chemical or hybrid. Choose based on your skin type and activity.
How much sunscreen should I apply?
Guideline: Approx. 2 mg/cm² of skin → entire body ≈ 30–40 ml (5–6 tablespoons). Apply generously.
How often should I reapply sunscreen?
At least every 2 hours, and after swimming, heavy sweating, or drying off.
Is sunscreen alone enough?
No. Combine sunscreen with protective clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and shade, and plan your schedule accordingly (avoid the midday hours).
What SPF levels are recommended?
Guidelines: Children ≥ SPF 30; adults at least SPF 15–30; for high UV intensity (UVI ≥6), SPF 30–50+.
Are nanoparticles in sunscreen dangerous?
Studies are not conclusive. Nanoparticles must be labeled; if in doubt, it is better to choose non-nano products.
At what age can children start using chemical sunscreens?
Recommendation: Use chemical filters with caution; opt for mineral-based products. Chemical filters are generally recommended for children aged 2 and older, following medical or manufacturer recommendations.
Where can I find the current UV index?
On weather service websites (e.g., DWD), the Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS), and in many weather apps.For more information, visit and read the article "At what UV index should I avoid going out in the sun?"
