The Right Sunscreen For Your Age

Pay closer attention to the ingredients to make sure your sunscreen gives your skin exactly what it needs.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel
Pay closer attention to the ingredients to make sure your sunscreen gives your skin exactly what it needs.
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In Your 20s Keep Breakouts at Bay

Those oil glands from your teen years may still be in overdrive, resulting in clogged pores and breakouts.

“If you have oily, acne-prone skin, opt for a water-based sunscreen or one with less oil, like a gel or lotion. It’s less likely to clog pores,” advises Dr Eileen Tan, dermatologist and founder of Dr Eileen Tan Skin, Laser & Hair Transplant Clinic.

Dr Georgia Lee, medical director of TLC Lifestyle Practice Clinic, recommends using a sunscreen formulated with lactic acid, known for reducing acne breakouts and the look of fine lines. “Lactic acid acts as an exfoliant and has moisturising properties,” says Dr Lee.

“Look out, too, for ingredients such as salicylic acid and niacinamide to stimulate cell turnover and prevent acne,” suggests Dr Tan.

CNP Laboratory Tone-up Protection Sun SPF42/PA+++, $47.20; Hada Labo Air Aqua UV Day Emulsion Fresh SPF50/ PA+++, $19.90; Sunplay Skin Aqua Sarafit UV Floral Essence SPF50+/PA++++, $16.90
CNP Laboratory Tone-up Protection Sun SPF42/PA+++, $47.20; Hada Labo Air Aqua UV Day Emulsion Fresh SPF50/ PA+++, $19.90; Sunplay Skin Aqua Sarafit UV Floral Essence SPF50+/PA++++, $16.90
In Your 30s Fight Free Radical Damage

“Signs of photo-ageing and pollution will start to show when you hit your 30s,” says Dr Tan.

Boost your skincare with an antioxidant-packed sunscreen that blocks damage by environmental aggressors and wrinkle-causing free radicals. “Choose one with ingredients such as mandelic acid and green tea extract, which help to minimise UV damage”, says Dr Tan.

According to Dr Lee, vitamin C and niacinamide can also prevent dark spots.

Sunplay Skin Aqua Sarafit UV Milk SPF50+/PA++++, $14.90; Sensuouz by Shannz UV Protection P’ SPF25++, $67; CNP Laboratory Omega Perfection Sunblock SPF50+/PA+++, $57.90
Sunplay Skin Aqua Sarafit UV Milk SPF50+/PA++++, $14.90; Sensuouz by Shannz UV Protection P’ SPF25++, $67; CNP Laboratory Omega Perfection Sunblock SPF50+/PA+++, $57.90
In Your 40s Counter the Signs of Ageing

As you hit your 40s, you may find that your skin is increasingly dry and less firm.

This is due to hormonal changes. When premenopausal symptoms set in, oestrogen levels drop but testosterone levels stay the same.

During this time, avoid a sunscreen with drying ingredients such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. “You’ll want one with ingredients such as ceramides and peptides that are said to hydrate and minimise the signs of ageing,” says Dr Tan.

You may also want to consider a multipurpose formula. “Opt for a sunscreen that prevents dark spots and stimulates collagen production for firmer skin as well. One with antioxidants such as vitamin E and flavonoids, too,” says Dr Lee.

Innisfree Extreme Safety 60 Sun Gel SPF50+/PA+++ , $29; Hada Labo Hydrating UV Perfect Gel Moisturizer SPF 50+/PA++++, $35.90; Est Lab Sunshield SPF 50, $72
Innisfree Extreme Safety 60 Sun Gel SPF50+/PA+++ , $29; Hada Labo Hydrating UV Perfect Gel Moisturizer SPF 50+/PA++++, $35.90; Est Lab Sunshield SPF 50, $72