Nurse Catherine’s Sunscreen Recommendations for Every Skin Type

Sun protection should be a top priority throughout the year, but as the summer months arrive and we spend more time outdoors—on the golf course, in the water, on patios—it’s more vital than ever.
In the spirit of enjoying a healthy summer outdoors, Nurse Catherine has graciously taken time away from her busy patient schedule to share her sun protection tips, and top sunscreen recommendations for every skin type.
PSA: Sunscreen is just one facet of sun safe behaviour.
Besides wearing and re-applying sunscreen regularly, we always recommend avoiding peak UV hours whenever possible, seeking shade, and wearing protective clothing and hats.
Nurse Catherine’s best advice for choosing a sunscreen you love.
The best sunscreen for you is the one you’ll wear regularly, and there are some considerations to keep in mind when choosing your choice. First, we recommend a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30, and one that offers broad spectrum protection to ensure you’re blocking both UVA and UVB rays. If you have sensitive skin, consider mineral formulas rather than chemical. Because mineral filters don’t absorb into the skin the way chemical sunscreens do, they reflect UV rays like a mirror, without inciting any superficial inflammation or irritation.
Sunscreen recommendations for every skin type.
Even with this advice in mind, the choices can seem overwhelming. Luckily, there are many options we love and recommend for every skin type.
For normal/dry skin: Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36
This lightweight, tinted, all-mineral sunscreen hydrates and protects the skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays, pollution, IR rays, and blue light, all while brightening most skin tones with a glowing tint. It’s fragrance-free, works great under makeup, and is water resistant for 40 minutes.
For combination/oily skin: SkinMedica Daily Physical Defense Sunscreen Lotion SPF 34
This ultra-sheer, oil- and fragrance-free mineral sunscreen provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB defense without leaving a white cast. SkinMedica Daily Physical Defense Sunscreen Lotion also contains caffeine and antioxidant green tea to help further protect the skin against free radical damage.
For all skin types: Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50
The powder formulation of this brush-on sunscreen makes it convenient, and easy to re-apply on the go. This 100% mineral sunscreen can be used alone or over makeup and provides protection against UVA/UVB rays, pollution exposure, blue light, and infrared radiation. It’s water resistant, hypoallergenic, and free from parabens, sulfate, phthalate, oil, and fragrance making it great for sensitive skin. Available in shades fair, medium, and tan.
For help with sunscreen selection for yourself or any member of your family, or for skincare recommendations to support your 360° treatment plan, reach out, or speak to us at your next appointment.