What Is Dry Sunscreen?

People who are concerned about sun protection leaving a greasy film on their skin or clothing may want to try dry sunscreen. This product offers ultra-violet A (UVA) and ultra-violet B (UVB) protection like most sunscreens do, but it normally does not contain a great deal of oil. As a result, it is absorbed into the skin very quickly, leaving it very dry to the touch. Even though it cannot usually be felt on the skin, the type of sun protection is nonetheless waterproof, so people can wear it while they are swimming or boating.

Dry sunscreen may come in a tube that is around 3 ounces (88 ml) or a bottle that contains 4.2 ounces (121.21 ml). It may have a sun protection factor (SPF) that is between 30 and 55. This product is normally labeled as a "dry" or "uber-dry" variety on the bottle itself.

The cream looks and feels much like regular sunscreen does, with the exception that it is drier to the touch. It is used by squeezing a small amount of this product into the palms, and then rubbing it into the skin. This type of sun protection normally does not leave behind any residue and does not make the skin appear slick or glossy.

After applying dry sunscreen, people are immediately protected from UVA and UVB rays. This protection can last for several hours without needing to be reapplied. An advantage is that there is no residue left behind that might get into a swimming pool or hot tub when an individual has been using this product.

Dry sunscreen is often a more natural alternative to many commercial products. This is because some brands of this sun protection also contain vitamins C, E, or A to improve overall skin health. Some manufacturers have also eliminated fragrances and dyes, while others have removed harmful chemicals known as pabas. Even though this type of sunscreen may have fewer artificial ingredients, it is nonetheless very difficult to find a brand that is made entirely of natural substances.

People can buy dry sunscreen wherever skin products are sold, but a cosmetic store or pharmacy may have a wider selection than other retailers. This sun protection is usually more expensive than traditional brands are, so people who have never used this product before may want to try a sample size first. Doing so can help them find a brand they like while getting used to the feeling of dry skin after using this product.