Blog with Dr. Irwin

Tag >> Sunscreen

I began running in recent years, but have heard that it can actually make your facial skin sag because of the pounding force. I know exercise in general is good for skin because of helping with circulation, but is running a no-no?? Thank you!
There is no data on this but ...... I've treated runners for many years, have many friends and family who run (including marathoners) and run myself 2-3 times a week.  As long as runners... more

Dr Irwin, I'd love to own a quality sunscreen for face with matte finish. I've tried some that promise so but shine shows up anyway. Could you please suggest? Would you trust quality of sunscreens made by make up - or even clothes' - makers such as Clarins and Chanel? Thanks.
Have you tried the mineral powder makeups with sunscreens that are SPF 15 or above?  What about the Jane Iredale SPF 20 powder compact - that might be perfect for you  - or look at Bare... more

Hi Dr. Irwin, I had a two IPL treatments for brown spots/previous sun damage. I was very please with my resuls. I went to Costa Rica a month after my ipl treatment and my spots are back!!! I wore Neutragena SPF 100, a hat and wasn't basking out in the sun. I was very good with reapplying the sunscreen. I am perplexed! What do you recommend? I would get another IPL treatment, but is it really worth the cost? I was so disappointed that after two days in the sun, with heavy sunscreen on, they came back. Is there a better sunscreen then Neutragena 100? Any over the counter creams do you recommend or should I try another IPL? Thanks so much!

Okay -  this is good - because there are some important points here.  Remember that for brown spots the SPF doesn't matter much as long as it's at least an SPF 30.  You want an SPF 30... more


Hi Dr. Irwin. My question is about Sunscreens. They all feel like moisturizers but most skin care programs suggest using a moisturizer before a sunscreen. I am 50 and have oily skin but with the use of the skin Medica retinol I do tend to be surface-dry right after washing. Do I need to use a moisturizer or is a sunscreen like Ti Silc spf 60 or SkinMedica SPF 30 enough?
You really don't need an extra moisturizer with the sunscreen if you're oily.  Here are 3 options.  One, just use the sunscreen alone.  Two, use the moisturizer you like and put a... more

what is the best high quality sunscreen for someone who has melasma?
Use the highest percentage zinc you can find and tolerate.  I often use the Dermaquest Zinclear SPF 30 with 18.6 zinc.  It also comes in a tinted form and the tint is a more medium... more

How much sunscreen do I need to apply to my face to get the full SPF? I read that you need 1/2 teaspoon. I measured it and tried to put it on but it was difficult to put that much on my face. Is this the correct amount and if I don't put that much on am I not getting that much protection? Does it differ with chemical versus physical sunscreen?

I know what you mean - it's a lot.  But I think common sense can apply here and these are guidelines really.  If I were outdoors, midday in Hawaii and surfing, I would apply all that and... more


Hi Dr Irwin,You are a very kind person to answer questions on your blog because I'm sure you are a very busy person. I can't personally visit your country to make an appointment with you but I do buy products through your links so I hope that helps. My question is regarding tretenion. I live in a very hot dry climate and I am exposed to the sunlight many days that shines into my vehicle as my job involves driving. I want to use tretenion but I read that you don't use it in summer. Could I be doing more damage to my skin by using it considering my climate with my particular job. I am very diligent with sunscreen and I reapply every few hours.

Thank you!  Sorry it took me so long to get to your question since it's a good one.   Car window glass does not block all UV rays as you pointed out.  Window glass usually blocks UVB but... more


I have melasma and noticed that you recommended a couple of sunscreens with high zinc in them. Is this more important that a high spf? Thanks...Jennifer
Glad you asked to clarify this!   The short answer is yes!  As long as the sunscreen has at least an SPF 30 and is appropriate for the situation - i.e. water resistent  when you're in... more

Love your site, I’ve learned so much – Thanks!! I have a question on sunscreen. My morning routine includes using a separate sunscreen, currently the Skinceuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense 50. Throughout the day I blot my face w/ tissue to control oil. When I leave work around 5, is my skin still protected or does the sunscreen lose potency by sitting in an office all day? Thanks!
You're welcome!!  Sunscreens do degrade on the skin over time slowly with exposure to light, blotting or wiping the skin, exposure to our natural skin oils, etc.  I've never seen a study... more

Several dermatologists have recommended Heliocare for added sun protection. What is your opinion on Heliocare? Thanks for all you do! Bonnie

This is a tough one because since Heliocare is sold as a supplement, it is not regulated by the FDA.  That means that side effects from it's use may go undetected for some time.  I cannot... more


Dr. Irwin, My makeup (bobbi brown) and moisturizer (purpose) contain spf in them. Is it necessary to use an additional sunscreen for everyday exposure? I live in Northern California where it is often sunny. Also, my husband wears a moisturizer with spf in it. Is that enough coverage for everyday exposure? Will the amount of spf found in moisturizers and make-up prevent wrinkles and sunspots? We are both very fair and burn easily. Thanks, pale in California

Good question.  A think a lot of people are confused about this one.   The answer to this depends somewhat on what you do.  If you are commuting in your car and then indoors all day, it's... more


CORRECTION.   See the first blog post please.  I realized I goofed on the sunscreen.  The Helioplex is the stabilized Parsol complex in Neutrogena.  The Antihelios is the one that contains... more

Is my sunscreen good enough?

Posted in Sunscreen on Jan 12, 2010 | Permalink

I am a 31 year old woman who lives in Seattle. I wear sunscreen every day, the Replenix brand with antioxidants. If I use this product, do I still need to use an anti-oxidant serum too? In the past I have used the Replenix one recommended by this site, but now I a wondering if the sunscreen is good enough. Thanks

We don't carry the Replenix sunscreens - not enough space.  Look at the list of active ingredients.  Does it have either 5-10% zinc, 5-10% titanium or mexoryl 3%?  Those would be fine for... more


Hello, I am 56 years old. I just had three skin cancers removed. One on the front of my leg, one on the arm which was frozen. the last one was on my forehead (deep basil cell)...12 stiches. Anyway I play golf and tennis and I want the Best product I can find. I do not care what I look like as long as it protects me from cancer. I would love to get your recomendation. I would love to speak with you. I am A Vice President at Warner Bros. What is your number so I can call you. Or you can call me at 310-89006755.

That's pretty young to have so many so I'm guessing you've been active in that beautiful Southern California weather for awhile.  I'm very active in all sorts of outdoor sports too so... more


© 2008-2011 Skin Tour, LLC Home About Us Contact Privacy Site Credits

Skin Tour does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Terms of Use

Common Treatments: Botox - Restylane Juvederm - Lasers for brown spots - Fractional Lasers - Thermage - Sculptra - Laser Hair Removal