SPF sunscreen

How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Your Skin Type

Compare sunscreen types and learn how to choose an SPF for your skin, with examples from Alastin, EltaMD and Marini SkinSolutions.

Customer exploring sunscreen options at L&P Skin Shop

The best sunscreen for your routine is one that provides suitable protection and feels comfortable enough to use as directed. Start with the label, then compare texture, tint and the full ingredient list. This guide looks at three options in the L&P Skin Shop sunscreen collection.

What to look for on a sunscreen label

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends broad-spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher and water resistance. Broad-spectrum means protection against UVA and UVB rays. Water resistance has a time limit; follow the label for reapplication, particularly when swimming or sweating.

Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both. Other formulas use chemical filters, and some combine mineral and chemical filters. The filter type is one part of the choice; finish, fragrance and your individual skin response also matter.

1. A hydrating mineral tint: ALASTIN HydraTint Pro SPF 36

ALASTIN HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36 is a tinted mineral sunscreen with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Its hydrating formula and tint may appeal to someone who wants sun protection with a softly glowing finish.

ALASTIN HydraTint Pro Mineral SPF 36 tinted sunscreen tube with pump.

  • Mineral UV filters: titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
  • SPF 36 with broad-spectrum protection.
  • Tinted, hydrating finish. Consider how the tint looks on your own skin.

2. A lightweight, oil-free option: EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46

EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46 is an oil-free formula made with 5% niacinamide. Its UV filters are zinc oxide and octinoxate, so it is not an all-mineral sunscreen. EltaMD offers untinted and tinted versions; check the specific product you are choosing.

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 oil-free facial sunscreen in a white pump bottle.

  • Combines a mineral filter with a chemical filter.
  • SPF 46 with broad-spectrum protection.
  • Lightweight and oil-free, with niacinamide to help improve the appearance of blemishes and discoloration.

3. An untinted option: Marini Antioxidant SPF 33

Marini SkinSolutions Antioxidant Daily Face Protectant SPF 33 provides broad-spectrum protection using chemical UV filters: avobenzone, octinoxate, octisalate and oxybenzone. It does not combine mineral and chemical filters.

Marini SkinSolutions Antioxidant Daily Face Protectant SPF 33 sunscreen tube.

  • SPF 33 with broad-spectrum protection.
  • Water resistant for 80 minutes, according to the manufacturer. Follow its reapplication directions.
  • Contains fragrance. Review the complete ingredient list if you have sensitivities.

Application matters as much as the product

Use the amount directed on the label. The AAD recommends reapplying about every two hours outdoors and after swimming or sweating. Sunscreen works alongside shade and protective clothing; a higher SPF does not remove the need to reapply.

What if I have sensitive skin or recently had a procedure?

A skin-type label is only a starting point. If you have known allergies or easily irritated skin, review the ingredients with your skincare provider. After a procedure, follow your treating clinician's instructions about when sunscreen may be applied and which formula to use. Do not assume a product is appropriate for freshly treated skin because it is described as mineral or gentle.

Ask the L&P team for help choosing, or browse the full sunscreen collection. To learn how an antioxidant fits alongside SPF, read our vitamin C serum guide.

Sources and product information

Updated November 6, 2026. General product information, not personalized medical advice. Follow the directions on the product you purchase; formulas and packaging can change.