How to choose a sunscreen for the UAE sun

What makes the best sunscreen for UAE weather

Sunscreen labels can be confusing. These are the points that matter most:

• SPF (sun protection factor). This measures protection against UVB rays, the main cause of sunburn. Dermatologists recommend at least SPF 30.
• UVA protection. UVA rays reach deeper into the skin and add to skin ageing. Look for "broad spectrum", a UVA logo in a circle, or a UVA star rating of 4 or 5 stars.
• Water resistance. Useful if you will swim, sweat or play sport. It does not mean waterproof, so you still need to reapply.
• Your skin type. A product you like the feel of is one you will use daily.

Is SPF 50 sunscreen better for the UAE?

Many people in the UAE choose an SPF 50 sunscreen, and it is a sensible pick for long days outdoors, fair or sensitive skin, or anyone who burns easily. Higher SPF filters a little more UVB than SPF 30, but the difference is smaller than most people think.

What matters more is how you apply it. Most people use far too little. Dermatologists suggest that most adults need about 30 ml, roughly a shot glass, to cover all exposed skin. If you apply a thin layer, you get much less protection than the number on the bottle.

Choosing a texture for your skin type

Texture is often the deciding factor between a sunscreen you use and one that stays in the drawer. For many people, the best sunscreen for UAE weather is simply the lightest one that still gives high protection.

• Oily or acne-prone skin. A sunscreen for oily skin should feel light. Gels, fluids and "dry touch" or "oil control" formulas are popular. Dermatologists note that gels suit oily skin. Many people also look for "non-comedogenic" on the label, meaning the product is made to be less likely to block pores.
• Dry skin. Creams and lotions add moisture. Some people use a moisturiser with SPF, but a dedicated sunscreen usually gives more reliable coverage.
• Sensitive skin. Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Dermatologists often recommend them for sensitive skin. Fragrance-free products may also help.
• Darker skin tones. Everyone needs sun protection. Tinted fluids can avoid the white cast some mineral products leave.
• Lips. A lip balm with SPF protects an area that is easy to forget.

Kids sunscreen in the UAE

Children's skin burns easily, and school runs, playgrounds and pools mean a lot of sun. When buying a kids sunscreen in the UAE, choose a product made for children, with SPF 30 or higher, broad spectrum protection and water resistance.

• Babies under 6 months should be kept out of strong, direct sun. Use shade, light clothing and a hat. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using sunscreen on a young baby.
• For older children, apply before they go outside and reapply after swimming or towel drying.
• Hats, sunglasses and long, loose sleeves help a lot.
• Try a small patch first if your child has eczema or sensitive skin.

How to use sunscreen properly

Good habits matter as much as the product you buy.

1. Apply to dry skin about 15 minutes before going out, so it has time to settle.
2. Cover often-missed areas: ears, neck, back of the hands and the tops of the feet.
3. Reapply every 2 hours, and after swimming, sweating or towel drying.
4. Seek shade in the middle of the day, when the sun is strongest.
5. Remember that sand and water reflect UV, so you can burn faster at the beach.
6. Check the expiry date. Old sunscreen may not protect as well.

Time indoors and in the car still counts. Some UVA passes through window glass, so a daily sunscreen is worth it if you sit near a window or drive a lot.