What are anti-aging sunscreens and when should you start using them?

If there's one thing that dermatologists, skincare experts, and beauty editors can agree on, it's that солнцезащитный крем it is the only product you should include in your daily skincare routine, no matter your age. In fact, if you ask most dermatologists, they will tell you that sunscreen is the original anti-aging product, and that the use SPF every day, along with other sun protection measures, can help prevent signs of premature skin aging. But lately we've been seeing a lot of hype around "anti-aging sunscreens."

To learn more about the category and what sunscreens are best for aging skin, we turned to a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon from New York. Dr. Dandy Engelman. Keep reading to find out her thoughts on anti-aging sunscreens and what formulas should be on your radar. 

What are anti-aging sunscreens?

Anti-aging sunscreens, according to Dr. Engelman, are broad-spectrum sunscreens containing both SPF 30 or higher and anti-aging ingredients that nourish and firm the skin. “Anti-aging sunscreens will contain antioxidants like vitamin C and moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and/or squalane in their formulas,” she explains.  

How are anti-aging sunscreens different from other sunscreens?

How are anti-aging sunscreens different from other sunscreens? Simply put, “what makes an anti-aging sunscreen unique is the ingredients; these formulas have both sun protection and anti-aging properties,” says Dr. Engelman. "With nourishing antioxidants like vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E, peptides for firmness and squalane for hydration, anti-aging sunscreens are designed to nourish and protect the skin." 

Conventional sunscreens, on the other hand, focus primarily on UV protection. Dr. Engelman explains that the main ingredients are active protective agents such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide in mineral sunscreens and oxybenzone, avobenzone, octocrylene and others in chemical sunscreens.

Who benefits from anti-aging sunscreen?

Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is a great way to prevent signs of early skin aging, as long as you use it as directed and with other sun protection measures. Dr. Engelman recommends switching to an anti-aging sunscreen formula if you're worried about skin aging. 

“Someone with more mature skin will benefit greatly from the nourishing and protective benefits of an anti-aging sunscreen,” she explains. "Because mature skin tends to lack moisture, luminosity, and skin barrier strength, the additional ingredients in anti-aging SPFs help restore balance and also help prevent more damage from accumulating."

"I recommend switching to this type of sunscreen, especially if you're worried about skin aging," she adds. While you can get all the anti-aging benefits you need from your regular skin care products, using an anti-aging sunscreen adds more nourishing ingredients that stay on your face all day long, which only benefits your skin. Remember to reapply as directed, avoid peak sunshine and use other protective measures to reap the full benefits.

Our favorite anti-aging sunscreens

La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Correct SPF 70 

We love this new La Roche-Posay Anti-Aging Daily Sunscreen formula. With skin-enhancing niacinamide (also known as vitamin B3), this choice helps correct uneven skin tone, fine lines, and rough skin texture while protecting skin from sun damage. It offers a sheer finish that has been tested to blend seamlessly with all skin tones without leaving behind a white cast or greasy sheen. 

SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening Protection

This broad-spectrum sunscreen contains a powerful blend of blemish-correcting, hydrating and brightening ingredients for brighter, younger-looking skin. The formula fights even existing discoloration to help protect against future sun damage.

Lancôme UV Expert Aquagel Face Sun Cream 

Looking for an anti-aging sunscreen that doubles as an SPF, face primer, and moisturizer? Meet your perfect match. Formulated with SPF 50, antioxidant-rich vitamin E, moringa and edelweiss, this sunscreen hydrates, preps and protects skin from the sun in one easy step. 

Skinbetter sunbetter Tone Smart Sunscreen SPF 68 compact 

One of Dr. Engelman's favorites, this sunscreen/primer hybrid comes in a sleek, compact package and prevents skin aging and sun damage. Infused with protective ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, this primer protects from the sun's rays while providing lightweight coverage.

EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46

If you're prone to discoloration and rosacea, try this soothing sunscreen from EltaMD. It contains skin-enhancing ingredients such as wrinkle-fighting niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, which stimulates collagen production, and lactic acid, which is known to increase cell turnover. It is light, silky, it can be worn both with makeup and separately.