Dr. Diana Ponsky · What to look for in a sunscreen and what to avoid
Video5 min·Published Jun 2026

What to look for in a sunscreen and what to avoid

With Dr. Diana Ponsky

Chapter 3 of 4 · Patient & Family Education

Layering technique

Layering strategy and reapplication timing

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What the experts said20 expert statements
SPF 30 provides 95% protection against damaging rays that lead to increased skin cancer risk.
ClinicalDiana Ponsky
SPF 15 is not adequate protection.
OpinionDiana Ponsky
SPF 50 or 80 provides 98% protection.
ClinicalDiana Ponsky
Each 10 SPF increment provides approximately 1% additional protection.
ClinicalDiana Ponsky
Physical sunblocks contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as active ingredients.
ClinicalDiana Ponsky
Physical sunblocks have a whitish tint.
ClinicalDiana Ponsky
Blue Neutrogena gel sunscreen is beneficial for acne-prone skin.
ClinicalDiana Ponsky
Ceramides in sunscreen provide hydration to skin.
ClinicalDiana Ponsky
Dr. Ponsky applies SPF daily as part of her routine before foundation.
OpinionDiana Ponsky
There are two types of sunblocks: physical and chemical.
ClinicalDiana Ponsky
Oxybenzone and tin oxidate are chemical sunblock ingredients that should be avoided.
GuidelineDiana Ponsky
Most drugstore sunblocks currently do not contain oxybenzone or tin oxidate.
ClinicalDiana Ponsky
Chemical sunblocks are absorbed into skin and provide protection once the sun hits the skin.
ClinicalDiana Ponsky
Physical sunblocks sit on top of skin and block UV rays.
ClinicalDiana Ponsky
Once a physical sunblock washes off, there is no protection remaining.
ClinicalDiana Ponsky
Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours during direct sun exposure such as beach or boat activities.
GuidelineDiana Ponsky
Physical sunblocks lose effectiveness when sweated off.
ClinicalDiana Ponsky
Waterproof/sweatproof sunscreens are rated for 80 minutes of water resistance.
ClinicalDiana Ponsky
Sunscreen should be applied before going outside.
GuidelineDiana Ponsky
Natural sunscreens can work if they contain key protective ingredients like zinc or titanium, but evidence for all natural formulations is incomplete.
ClinicalDiana Ponsky