The Sunkiss Glow Report How to Read a Sunscreen Label Like a Skin Expert. The Ingredients That Truly Protect Your Skin. By Alicia | Founder, Sunkiss Airbrush™ By Alicia
- Jul 13
- 3 min read
We spend so much time talking about SPF numbers that we often forget to ask a more important question:
What's actually inside the bottle?
The truth is, the number on the front of your sunscreen tells only part of the story.
The real protection comes from the active ingredients, whether the formula provides broad-spectrum protection, and whether it's designed for your skin type.
As a Master Esthetician, one of the questions I hear most often is:
"Which sunscreen should I buy?"
My answer is always the same:
Start by reading the label—not the marketing.
Understanding a few key ingredients can completely change the way you protect your skin, helping prevent premature aging, pigmentation, and long-term sun damage.
Why Broad-Spectrum Protection Matters
Many people believe SPF is only about preventing sunburn.
It isn't.
The sun emits two primary types of ultraviolet rays that affect our skin differently.
UVB Rays
UVB rays are responsible for sunburn.
The SPF number on your sunscreen measures how well the product protects against these rays.
UVA Rays
UVA rays penetrate much deeper into the skin.
These are the rays responsible for:
Premature aging
Wrinkles
Loss of collagen
Sun spots
Uneven pigmentation
This is why every sunscreen you purchase should clearly state:
Broad Spectrum
If it doesn't, you're only receiving part of the protection your skin deserves.
Understanding SPF Numbers
One of the biggest misconceptions in skincare is believing that higher SPF numbers provide dramatically more protection.
In reality:
SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays.
SPF 50 blocks approximately 98%.
SPF 100 blocks about 99% under ideal testing conditions.
Rather than chasing the highest SPF number, focus on:
✓ Broad-spectrum protection
✓ The quality of the ingredients
✓ Reapplying every two hours when outdoors
A beautifully formulated SPF 30 used consistently is often more effective than an SPF 100 that's only applied once.
The New Ingredient Everyone Is Talking About
One of the most exciting developments in skincare this year is the FDA's approval of Bemotrizinol (BEMT).
For decades, this ingredient has been trusted throughout Europe and many other countries because of its exceptional performance.
Now, it is finally becoming available in the United States.
Why professionals are excited:
Excellent UVA and UVB protection
Highly photostable, meaning it remains effective even after sun exposure
Helps create more elegant sunscreen formulas
Can improve protection when combined with other sunscreen filters
This approval marks an important step toward giving consumers access to newer sunscreen technology that has been used internationally for years.
Which Ingredients Should You Look For?
For Dry Skin
Dry skin benefits from sunscreen formulas that not only protect but also replenish moisture.
Look for:
Zinc Oxide
Bemotrizinol (when available)
Hyaluronic Acid
Ceramides
Glycerin
Squalane
These ingredients help maintain hydration while supporting the skin barrier.
For Combination Skin
Combination skin requires balance.
Choose lightweight lotion or fluid formulas.
Look for:
Zinc Oxide
Bemotrizinol
Niacinamide
These ingredients help protect the skin without leaving it feeling heavy or greasy.
For Normal Skin
Normal skin has the most flexibility.
Instead of focusing solely on SPF numbers, look for formulas that offer:
Broad-spectrum protection
Comfortable daily wear
Elegant texture
Antioxidant support
Remember:
The best sunscreen is the one you'll enjoy wearing every single day.
Don't Forget the Supporting Ingredients
The active sunscreen filters protect your skin from ultraviolet rays, but additional skincare ingredients can make your sunscreen even more beneficial.
Look for formulas that include:
Vitamin E
Niacinamide
Green Tea Extract
Ceramides
Hyaluronic Acid
Antioxidants
These ingredients help support hydration and protect against environmental stressors while complementing your daily skincare routine.
Five Things I Always Check Before Buying an SPF
Before I purchase any sunscreen, I ask myself five simple questions:
✓ Does it say Broad Spectrum?
✓ Which active ingredients are providing the protection?
✓ Is this formula right for my skin type?
✓ Will I actually enjoy wearing it every day?
✓ Does the formula support healthy skin—not just UV protection?
The front label may catch your attention.
The ingredient list tells the real story.
Luxury Skincare Begins With Daily Protection
Beautiful skin isn't created during a facial.
It isn't created during one treatment.
It isn't created from one expensive product.
It's created through the small decisions we make every single day.
Daily sunscreen is one of the most powerful investments you can make in your skin.
Whether your goal is preventing premature aging, maintaining healthy skin, protecting your Airbrush™ Tan, or preserving the results of your skincare treatments, choosing the right sunscreen matters.
Healthy skin is beautiful skin.
And beautiful skin begins with understanding what you're putting on it.
The Sunkiss Philosophy
At Sunkiss Airbrush™ By Alicia, I believe luxury begins with education.
The more you understand your skin, the better choices you'll make—not only for today, but for years to come.
Because skincare isn't about chasing trends.
It's about making informed decisions that protect your skin for life.
Your Skin, But Better.
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