If you have fair skin, you may want to use a higher SPF.

Be aware of how your skin feels after using the sunscreen. If your skin feels dry, your sunscreen may have too much alcohol. If your skin is irritated, you may be sensitive to certain chemicals in the sunscreen. You may need to try several different sunscreen products to find the one that is best for your skin type.

Sunscreens in cosmetics or lotions often do not offer enough protection on their own. Be careful when choosing this type of sunscreen, it may be more beneficial during the summer months to switch to cosmetics without sunscreen and use a separate sunscreen.

References:

“Choosing the Best Sunscreen,” 2010, May 29, Ameya Pendse, ABC: Good Morning America

“How to Choose the Right Sunscreen,” Updated 2011, Aug 28, Staff Writer, Skinacea

“Sunscreen,” Updated 2011, June 27, Staff Writer, U.S. Federal Food and Drug Administration