How Should Older Adults Choose a Sunscreen? 2026 Guide

Sunscreen advice comes down to a few words on the label and how you use it. This guide explains what the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and the FDA say to look for, how much to use and how often, and where free options such as shade, clothing and a hat fit in.

This guide starts with the free options, explains the label, and then lists examples to buy. GMG does not test products. Our guidance comes from AAD, FDA and the National Institute on Aging (NIA) and from the specifications stated in the product listings, and we link to each source. This is general information, not medical advice.

Start with the free options

Sunscreen is one of several ways to protect your skin. The FDA's sun safety tips include limiting time in the sun, "especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.," wearing clothing that covers exposed skin, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, sunglasses and broad-brimmed hats, and using sunscreen as directed. The FDA says to use sunscreen in combination with these other measures.

If your hair is thinning, the AAD says to apply sunscreen to your scalp or wear a wide-brimmed hat. Check any sunscreen you already own before you buy more. The FDA says not to use sunscreen that has passed its expiration date, or that has no expiration date and was not purchased within the last three years, and to keep containers out of direct sun and heat.

For questions about your skin, the NIA suggests talking with a dermatologist, a doctor specially trained in skin problems, or a primary care doctor.

If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, ask whether its over-the-counter allowance applies. Benefits vary by plan, so check your Evidence of Coverage or call the number on your card.

What to look for on the label

The AAD recommends a sunscreen that is "broad spectrum," has an SPF of 30 or higher and is "water resistant." "Broad spectrum" means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. The AAD says water resistance lasts 40 or 80 minutes, and that not all sunscreens are water resistant.

The minimum SPF differs by source. The FDA says to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, and the NIA says 15 or higher. The AAD recommends 30 or higher. The FDA also explains that SPF mainly indicates protection against sunburn from UVB rays, which is why "broad spectrum" matters. This guide lists only products that state SPF 30 or higher.

The FDA says no sunscreen is "waterproof" and that all sunscreens eventually wash off. Products labeled water resistant must state on the label whether they stay effective for 40 or 80 minutes when swimming or sweating.

The NIA says to be skeptical of products that claim to be antiaging or able to reduce wrinkles, because many are cosmetics, not drugs, and are not required to be tested in humans. This guide lists no product for those claims. A sunscreen's job is sun protection.

How much to use and how often

The AAD says most adults need about 1 ounce of sunscreen, "roughly the amount to fill a shot glass," to cover skin not covered by clothing. For the face, use at least 1 teaspoon. Apply it to all skin that clothing does not cover, including the ears, the back of the neck and the tops of the feet. The AAD says to apply about 15 minutes before going outside.

Reapply every two hours, and immediately after swimming or sweating. The AAD says people who get sunburned usually "didn't reapply, used too little sunscreen, or used an expired sunscreen." The FDA lists frequently forgotten spots, including the ears, nose, lips (use an SPF lip balm), back of the neck, hands, tops of the feet, the hairline and an exposed scalp.

For hard-to-reach areas such as your back, the AAD says to ask someone to help you or use a spray sunscreen.

Mineral and other sunscreens

The AAD's sunscreen FAQ says physical sunscreens, also called mineral sunscreens, contain titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide, and that dermatologists recommend them for people with sensitive skin. The same page says any of the types "can effectively protect you from the sun" if you select one that is broad spectrum, water resistant and has an SPF 30 or higher.

The FDA lists the active ingredients used in sunscreens. The table below includes mineral and non-mineral products. The Notes column tells you which ingredients the listing names.

Creams, sticks and sprays

The AAD's FAQ says the best type of sunscreen is the one you will use again and again. It lists lotions, creams, gels, ointments, wax sticks and sprays. It says creams are best for dry skin and for applying on the face, and that sticks are good to use around the eyes. The AAD adds that sticks are easy for under the eyes and the backs of the hands, and suggests four passes back and forth over each area, then rubbing it in.

Sprays need extra care. The AAD says it can be difficult to tell how much spray is enough, so spray until your skin glistens and rub it in. It says never to spray near your face or mouth, to avoid windy days and to avoid inhaling it. The FDA says spray sunscreens should never be applied directly to your face, and that some contain flammable ingredients such as alcohol. Do not smoke or go near open flames, grills or candles while wearing a product labeled flammable. No aerosol spray is listed in the table below.

When to see a dermatologist

The NIA suggests talking with a dermatologist, or a primary care doctor, about which skin care products are safe and effective for you. It also says regular skin checks by a doctor are important for people who have already had skin cancer. The AAD says a dermatologist can examine sun-damaged skin.

This guide does not say whether Medicare covers a skin check. Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or ask your plan before you book.

Products that meet these criteria

GMG has not tested these products. Each is listed because its Amazon listing states SPF 30 or higher and broad spectrum, and each was sold by Amazon.com on the date checked. They are examples of what is available, not recommendations of particular brands. Confirm the SPF, the ingredients, the expiration date and the size on the label before you buy. Product names are paid links.

Listing details were checked on October 11, 2026 and can change. Where a listing gives no water-resistance time, check the label for 40 or 80 minutes. Aerosol sprays are not listed.

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