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AVEENO CONTINUOUS PROTECTION SUNBLOCK LOTION FOR FACE SPF 70 An antioxidant blend of soy and vitamins A, C, and E “reduces free-radical damage,” says Nicholas J. Lowe, clinical professor of dermatology at UCLA. (With daily use, he adds, high SPFs can be aggravating to the skin; usually, SPF 15 to SPF 30 will suffice to prevent sunburn.)
COPPERTONE ULTRAGUARD QUICKCOVER LOTION SPRAY SPF 30 The white mist applies easily to the body and dries clear, providing more uniform coverage than lotion.
DERMADOCTOR AIN'T MISBEHAVIN' SPF 30 PFA +++ Although the European PFA rating system is not recognized by the FDA, this sunscreen's three +'s are an indicator of UVA protection, or defense against aging rays. Because the product contains anti-acne ingredients, reapplying may not be advisable, Lowe says, so it's best for limited sun exposure.
LA ROCHE-POSAY ANTHELIOS 15 contains the powerful UVA blocker Mexoryl SX in the highest concentration available in the United States.
NEUTROGENA ULTRA SHEER DRY-TOUCH SUNBLOCK SPF 85 The high SPF extends resistance to burning UVB light, but it's crucial to maintain protection against UVA—which this product's Helioplex formula does for at least four hours.
PRESCRIPTIVES ALL-WEATHER FRIEND DAILY UVA/UVB SUN PROTECTION 40 adds antioxidants to shield against environmental pollution; caffeine is known to destroy cells damaged by UVB, which could help prevent skin cancer.
VERDURE MATTE MOISTURIZING PHYSICAL SUNSCREEN WITH ANTIOXIDANTS SPF 28 deflects rays with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Green- and red-tea extracts “prevent damage and reduce inflammation,” says Eric F. Bernstein, clinical associate professor of dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania. Broccoli extract, another antioxidant, has been shown to reduce skin-cancer rates in mice.
VMV HYPOALLERGENICS ARMADA FACE AND BODY SHIELD SPF 60 Because it contains anti-inflammatories and is free of allergens, “it may be a good product for people with sensitive skin,” Lowe says.
Photo: Roger Cabello
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