There are 2 different kinds of sunscreens - physical and chemical. Physical sunscreens contain active ingredients like titanium dioxde, which work by forming a physical layer on top of the skin that reflects UV radiation. The problem with these products is that they often leave a whitish film on your skin. Chemical sunscreens are absorbed into the skin, and prevent absorption of UV radiation. They usually have a more cosmetically pleasing result.
I’ve started recommending that my patients use a sunscreen containing helioplex…its a chemical sunscreen, its long lasting, and it provides broad spectrum UVA/B protection. Best of all, its made by neutrogena, so its not very expensive at all.
I used to use that. Its another physical sunscreen, and it definitely used to leave a greyish film on my skin.
However, sunscreen is only effective if its applied liberally and frequently…and unless you’re willing to do that even with a $50 tube of designer product, its probably a good idea to buy something cheaper.