With summer around the corner, conversations about sun protection are heating up. In a recent Us Weekly feature, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dhaval G. Bhanusali of Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery (whose clientele includes Hailey Bieber and Martha Stewart) laid out a refreshingly practical guide for staying safe in the sun. If you thought sunscreen was just for the beach, or that mineral formulas are the only answer for sensitive skin, think again.
Why Tanning Isn’t Glamorous
“A tan is actually the sign of your body trying to protect itself after injury,” Dr. Bhanusali explains. That golden glow? It’s actually a response to UV-induced skin damage. Sunburn, he adds, is “the result of cell death,” and the resulting hyperpigmentation is directly tied to poor sun habits.
Not Just Mineral Sunscreens: Choose the Right Sunscreen for You
Once considered the go-to for sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens—those containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide—aren’t the only gentle options anymore. According to Dr. Bhanusali, “With improved formulas and science, there is no longer such a divide” between physical and chemical sunscreens. The takeaway? Choose what feels and looks best on your skin, without fear.
SPF Isn’t Just for Outdoors
Think you’re safe inside? Not so fast. Dr. Bhanusali emphasizes that “UV rays can penetrate through glass and are even present during the cloudy days when you expect it least.” That means daily sunscreen is non-negotiable, even if your plans don’t include stepping outside.
Read the Label: Look for Broad-Spectrum and SPF 30+
When shopping for sunscreen, always check for “broad-spectrum” and make sure the SPF is at least 30. Dr. Bhanusali’s personal favorite? Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Mineral Face Liquid Sunscreen SPF 70. “It goes on invisible and blends really well,” he says. “Hydrating and great for all skin types.”
The Two-Finger Rule for Application
How much sunscreen is enough?
“Apply about two finger-lengths of sunscreen and reapply every two hours or so, especially if out in the sun,” says Dr. Bhanusali. Personally, he prefers three finger-lengths to ensure coverage extends to the neck.
Don’t Forget the Neck, Chest, and Hands
According to Dr. Bhanusali, the biggest anti-aging mistake people make is forgetting about their neck, décolletage, and hands. “It may not seem important now, but it makes all the difference when someone gets older.”
Makeup + SPF: Proceed With Caution
Tinted sunscreens and SPF powders can be helpful for touch-ups but aren’t ideal as your primary form of protection. Dr. Bhanusali suggests using them for reapplication only. His go-to picks include La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios Tinted Mineral Sunscreen and Colorescience’s Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50.
Say Goodbye to White Cast Worries
“All sunscreens don’t cause a white cast,” Dr. Bhanusali insists.
With today’s formulations, many products wear invisibly under makeup, offering no-excuse protection for every skin tone.
A Double-Duty Vacation Favorite
Looking for a sunscreen that also works as a primer? Try EltaMD UV Skin Recovery. Dr. Bhanusali loves the green-tinted formula, which “helps offset any redness you have and goes on the skin seamlessly.”
About Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali
Dr. Dhaval G. Bhanusali is a board-certified dermatologist at Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery in New York City.
He is widely recognized for his expertise in medical and cosmetic dermatology and has served as a skincare advisor to some of the biggest names in entertainment and media.
As featured in US Weekly.
