How we choose.

• Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
• Filter type matched to the category.
• Water resistance where the use calls for it.
• Fragrance-free preferred.
• Third-party validation where it exists (National Eczema Association seal, Skin Cancer Foundation seal, Consumer Reports testing, FDA Drug Facts label on file).
• How our own patients tolerate it.
• Price.

• A base that cleans without stripping the skin.
• Benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid in the medicated washes, at strengths we use with our own patients.
• Fragrance-free for sensitive skin, and preferred everywhere else.
• Patches matched to the kind of pimple, with plain hydrocolloid first because it has the most evidence behind it.
• How our own patients tolerate it.
• Price.

You will often find a $15 product next to a $47 one. Both earned their place.

When two products are equivalent (same filter class, equal or better SPF and water resistance, both fragrance-free, similar feel, price within about 20 percent), we list the one available through our office first. We tell you when that is why.

• Recommend a product because of what it pays us.
• Show a product we have not checked against its label: the Drug Facts panel for anything medicated, and the full ingredient list for everything else.
• Rank by number.

• In-office sales: none yet. If we start selling any of these products in our office, we will list them here.
• Affiliate programs: Amazon Associates. When you buy through one of our Amazon links, Amazon pays us a small commission. Those links are marked "Paid link." If we join another program, we will name it here.
• Links that pay nothing: every other store on our shop pages, including Dermstore, Target, Ulta, Walmart, Sephora, LovelySkin, and the brands' own sites.
• Every product here is sold in many stores. Buy it wherever you like.

General information, not medical advice for your situation. If you have a skin condition or are pregnant, ask your dermatologist.