Prime Face Protection.

Byline: HANNAH MORRILL

The best sunscreen in the world is useless if you don't like it enough to apply it. In addition to stable broad-spectrum protection, strong antioxidants, and a gentle formulation, look for an appealing smell and feel, says Leslie Baumann, director of the University of Miami Cosmetic Institute. She and Ranella Hirsch, clinical assistant professor of dermatology at Boston University Medical Center, offer tips on finding a favorite.

UP THE ANTI

Antioxidants reduce free-radical damage from sunlight and increase the protective quality of sunscreen.

Citrix Antioxidant Sunscreen SPF 30 Along with physical and chemical blocks, this contains green-tea extract, an anti-inflammatory ingredient with high antioxidant capacity that has been shown to inhibit DNA damage caused by the sun.

SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF This serum of vitamin C and plant compounds ferulic acid and phloretin reduced UV-related skin damage in a recent study. "A layer under your sunscreen gives you a whole new level of protection," Baumann says.

MILD THINGS