Sunscreen Question

by Sally
(California)

Do you have a specific brand of sunscreen that you recommend?

My husband and I are in our 50's and have a lifetime's worth of sun exposure, as surfers and outdoor enthusiasts.

While I haven't had to have any skin cancer removed, my husband has and he faithfully applies sunscreen everyday per his dermatologist's instructions. He is at a point where his dermatologist says that he's done so well in protecting his skin while out in the sun, he may not need to check in with her as often, as long as he sticks with his daily sunscreen regimin.

I have two concerns - First, most sunscreens contain chemicals that I believe could be causing more harm than good in the long run, as our skin absorbs those chemicals into our blood stream.

Second, my doctor recently prescribed vitamin D drops for me as recent lab results showed I was lacking in vitamin D. While I do not always put sunscreen all over the exposed parts of my body everyday, I do use an SFP 15 botanical facial moisturizer daily. I am concerned that sunscreen is preventing me from getting needed vitamin D.

I would appreciate hearing any suggestions regarding sunscreen brands or what to look for in a gentle, good for your skin/body sunscreen. I've also heard that sunscreens over 30 SPF don't provide anymore benefit than the 30 SPF. I'd like to hear your thoughts on this as well.

Thank you so much for your time and consideration.