A Guide to Every Type of Sunscreen

A Guide to Every Type of Sunscreen

What’s in Your SPF Wardrobe?

Ask ten skincare experts to name the “best” sunscreen and you may get the same answer: the one you’ll actually wear. It sounds simple enough, but with so many formulas, filters, and textures on the market, choosing your daily SPF can feel like speed dating! Too many options, not enough commitment.

At Aegis MD in St. Catharines, we spend a lot of time helping patients figure out which sunscreen suits their skin, lifestyle, and comfort level. Because when you find your match, applying it becomes second nature.

Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens

Think of these as the two “families” of sunscreen. Both are effective; they just work differently.

Mineral (Physical) Sunscreens

  • How they work: They sit on top of the skin, bouncing UV rays away like a tiny mirror.
  • Star ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide.
  • Why we love them: Instant protection, gentle on sensitive or post-treatment skin, and today’s versions are far from the thick, chalky creams of the past.
  • Watch out for: A slight cast on deeper skin tones—often solved with a tinted formula.

Chemical Sunscreens

  • How they work: They absorb UV rays and transform them into heat, which is then released from the skin.
  • Star ingredients: Avobenzone, octocrylene, homosalate.
  • Why we love them: Sheer, weightless textures that disappear into the skin—no blending required.
  • Watch out for: Can cause irritation in those with very sensitive skin.

Sunscreen “Formats”

Most people know that your sunscreen can be a cream, but did you know it can also be a mist, a stick, a powder, or even a silky serum? Which you choose depends on how and when you’ll use it.
  • Lotions & Creams: Reliable, versatile, and perfect for both face and body.
  • Sticks: Mess-free and ideal for reapplication. You can keep them in handbags, glove boxes, or beach bags.
  • Sprays: Quick body coverage, but rub it in for even protection.
  • Powders: A makeup bag essential for on-top-of-makeup touch-ups.
  • Serums: Lightweight and elegant, great for layering under makeup or for SPF newcomers who hate the feel of sunscreen.

SPF – Playing the Numbers Game

What does SPF even stand for? Sun Protection Factor. This is a measure of defence against UVB rays—the rays that burn the skin. SPF 30 filters out about 97% of UVB rays, SPF 50 about 98%, and SPF 100 roughly 99%.

There doesn’t seem to be much difference does there? Here’s the key… Higher numbers give you slightly more coverage, but reapplication is the real safeguard. No sunscreen, no matter how high the SPF, will last all day without reapplying every two hours when you’re outdoors.

Look for the words broad spectrum so you’re also shielded from UVA rays, which contribute to premature aging and skin cancer.

Tinted or Not?

Tinted sunscreens do double duty. They protect against UVA and UVB rays and block visible light (including blue light from devices), thanks to iron oxides. That’s important if you’re dealing with pigmentation issues like melasma or stubborn dark spots. They also even out the skin tone, making them a favourite for low-makeup days.

How to Find “The One”

At Aegis MD medical aesthetics clinic in Niagara, we tell patients to start with these questions:
  • What’s your skin type?
    Sensitive skin often loves mineral; oily or acne-prone may prefer a lightweight chemical gel.
  • Where will you wear it?
    Poolside? Grab a water-resistant. Indoors all day? A sheer, hydrating option works beautifully.
  • What texture do you enjoy?
    You won’t reapply a formula you dread touching.
  • Do you want tint?
    If you’re targeting pigmentation or want to skip foundation, yes.
Your sunscreen should feel less like an obligation and more like a non-negotiable step you enjoy. Whether you’re a minimalist who wants one product to do it all or a skincare maximalist with an SPF for every mood, there’s a formula that fits you perfectly and we’re here to help you find it.

Visit us at Aegis MD, a medical aesthetics clinic and proud partner of Dermapure St. Catharines, for a personalized consultation on facial fillers, wrinkle relaxers, laser hair removal, skin care, varicose vein treatments, and any other anti-aging concerns. We serve patients from Niagara, Hamilton, Oakville, and St. Catharines!