Cómo elegir el protector solar adecuado para hombres: SPF, UVA y filtros minerales vs químicos

How to choose the right sunscreen for men: SPF, UVA, and mineral vs. chemical filters

The effectiveness of cosmetics has its limits. It doesn't work miracles, but it can help keep skin in its best condition.

What is undeniable is that the most effective anti-aging cream we can use is sunscreen.

Solar radiation not only accelerates skin aging. It can also cause spots, wrinkles, and other long-term skin damage. That's why sun protection is no longer just a matter of the beach or summer: it should be part of a daily routine.

However, choosing the right sunscreen can be confusing. Understanding how to read a sunscreen label is key to making a good decision.

What SPF means in sunscreen

SPF (Sun Protection Factor) indicates protection against UVB radiation, the rays responsible for sunburn.

Dermatologists recommend using a minimum SPF of 30 for daily use.

However, SPF alone doesn't tell the whole story. Good sunscreen should offer protection against more types of radiation.

UVA protection: the rays that age the skin

UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin than UVB and are directly related to premature aging.

They contribute to:

  • wrinkles

  • collagen loss

  • spots

When choosing a sunscreen, look for the UVA symbol within a circle or the indication of "broad-spectrum". This means the product protects against both UVA and UVB.

Mineral vs. chemical sunscreens: what's the difference

There are two main types of sunscreens.

Mineral (or physical) filters

Among the most well-known are:

  • titanium dioxide

  • zinc oxide

These filters reflect solar radiation like a shield and begin to protect immediately after application.

They are usually especially recommended for:

  • sensitive skin

  • freshly shaved skin

  • reactive skin

Their main drawback is that some formulations can leave a slight white residue on the skin if not well formulated.

Chemical filters

Chemical filters work differently: they absorb solar radiation and transform it into heat.

Their main advantages are:

  • lighter textures

  • invisible finish

  • greater comfort for daily use

They typically need 15 to 20 minutes to fully activate after application. In some cases, certain skin types may react to specific filters.

Blue light (HEV) and skin

Skin damage does not solely come from the sun.

Blue light or HEV (High Energy Visible Light) can also affect the skin. This radiation is emitted by digital devices such as computers, mobile phones, and screens.

Some studies suggest that prolonged exposure can contribute to cellular oxidation and irregular pigmentation.

Considering the number of hours many people spend in front of screens, this factor is becoming increasingly relevant in skin care.

Infrared radiation (IR-A)

Infrared A radiation (760–1400 nm) is a part of solar radiation that penetrates very deeply into the skin, even more so than UVA rays.

Currently, there is no official index comparable to SPF to measure protection against IR-A. However, some sunscreens include antioxidants that help counteract the oxidative damage associated with this radiation.

Why men should use sunscreen every day

Although skin care has traditionally been more associated with women, men's skin is also exposed to the cumulative effects of solar radiation.

Daily use of sunscreen helps prevent:

  • premature aging

  • sun spots

  • collagen loss

  • long-term skin damage

Incorporating a sunscreen adapted for men's skin into the daily routine is one of the simplest and most effective ways to care for the skin.

Conclusion

The best sunscreen is the one you use every day.

Always look for:

  • broad-spectrum protection

  • SPF 30 or higher

  • a texture that suits your lifestyle

And remember that, no matter how high the protection, sunscreen loses effectiveness over time, so it needs to be reapplied every two hours, especially when there is prolonged sun exposure.

Daily sun protection remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain healthy skin in the long term.

Frequently asked questions about sunscreen

What SPF is recommended for daily use?

For daily use, SPF 30 or higher is recommended, even on cloudy days or during winter.

How often should sunscreen be reapplied?

Generally, it is recommended to reapply every two hours, especially if there is direct sun exposure, sweating, or water contact.

Can sunscreen be used all year round?

Yes. UVA radiation is present all year round, even on cloudy days or in winter.

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