AskDocDoc
/
/
/
instead of sunscreen what can i use
FREE!Ask Doctors — 24/7
Connect with Doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
500 doctors ONLINE
#1 Medical Platform
Ask question for free
00H : 37M : 57S
background image
Click Here
background image
Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #19528
61 days ago
101

instead of sunscreen what can i use - #19528

Shivam

I am worried about my skin but sunscreen just doesn't seem to work for me. I tried a few different brands, but they always leave me feeling greasy and break me out, like every time. The other day I was at the beach and instead of sunscreen I ended up using a moisturizer that had SPF, but that didn’t do anything either! I ended up really sunburned and now it hurts like crazy. I heard some people mention natural alternatives like coconut oil or shea butter, maybe like instead of sunscreen what can I use that’s less harsh on my skin? I've also seen some DIY recipes floating around, but I'm not sure what actually works. I mean, am I just wasting my time? Are there any effective alternatives instead of sunscreen? I don't want to keep suffering from sunburn, but I also hate feeling all sticky. What about something like clothing that blocks UV rays, is that any good? Or maybe a tinted moisturizer? Help! Searching for ideas instead of sunscreen that could actually work without making my skin freak out. Thanks for any thoughts!

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors' responses

Finding a sunscreen alternative that’s effective but gentle on your skin can be tricky, but there are a few things to consider. While natural oils like coconut oil or shea butter might offer minimal UV protection, they don’t really substitute for proper sunscreen—they’re typically not enough to prevent sunburn, especially for prolonged exposure like at the beach. So it’s important to keep safety as a priority when it comes to UV protection. However, if typical sunscreens are irritating your skin, consider giving mineral-based suncreens a shot. These usually contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are less likely to cause breakouts and can feel lighter on the skin. When choosing, look for “non-comedogenic” or “matte finish” labels that often help reduce that greasy feeling.

In terms of clothing, UV-protective garments are actually a great option because they physically block the sun’s rays and you don’t have to worry about reapplying. Look for UPF-rated clothing, which indicates how well the fabric blocks UV rays—it’s kind of like SPF but for clothing.

Tinted moisturizers or foundations with SPF can also play a role in protection, though they usually can’t replace a dedicated sunscreen and might not provide broad-spectrum protection on their own. They’re more suitable for daily wear with less sun exposure rather than being at the beach.

For a homemade angle, it’s crucial to be cautious. DIY sunscreens might sound appealing, but their effectiveness is hard to verify and you could end up not being as protected as you think. Exploring gentler formulations or even consulting a dermatologist for tailored recommendations can be useful if off-the-shelf options consistently irritate your skin. Remember, consistently applying a product that works for you, even if it means trying out a few brands, remains essential for safeguarding against those sunburns.

16251 answered questions
87% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions