Sunscreens primarily work by blocking and absorbing UV rays through various physical and chemical particles. While physical particles such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide help the skin reflect UV rays, chemical ingredients in sunscreens react with the radiation before it can penetrate the skin. It absorbs and releases energy in the form of heat. Choosing the right sunscreen can make a big difference in your skincare routine. Sunscreen should be applied daily to prevent early signs of aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and sunburn. Dermatologist-recommended sunscreens and moisturizers also help prevent sunburn. This increases the risk of skin damage, such as sunburn, which worsens and increases the risk of developing skin cancer.
The Facts About Sun Exposure
The sun emits two types of ultraviolet (UV) rays that are harmful if overexposed.
Ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB).
UVA rays cause premature aging of the skin in the form of wrinkles and blemishes.
UVB rays are the leading cause of sunburn.
Solariums also emit ultraviolet light and should be used with caution.
UV rays aren’t just for beauty!
It can also cause painful sunburns and increase the risk of skin cancer. In an October (2016) call to action, the U.S. Surgeon General called skin cancer a “major public health concern” and recommended the use of sunscreen for prevention.
Sunscreens use various chemicals and minerals to block exposure to UVA and/or UVB rays. There are two main types of sunscreens:
Chemical sunscreens like oxybenzone and avobenzone absorb UV light before it reaches your cells and causes damage.
Physical (and mineral) sunscreens, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, reflect UV rays to protect us.
Sunscreens are also rated for their ability to protect you from the sun’s rays using a numbered SPF system. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and applies only to UVB rays. No sunscreen can block 100% of UVB rays, but an SPF above 15 can block 93% of them.
To get the most out of your sunscreen, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends:
- Requires an SPF of 30 or higher.
- It should be broadband. This means it protects against UVA and UVB rays.
- it must be waterproof.
How to choose the right sunscreen?
When choosing a sunscreen, it is essential to consider the allergenic potential, safety, and potential toxicity to particular ingredients. Also, you need to ensure that the ingredients in your sunscreen do not disrupt your hormonal balance.
Here are some factors you should consider when buying sunscreen:
broad spectrum. Dermatologists stress the importance of choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which means it protects your skin from both UVB and UVA rays. UVB rays can cause skin redness, sunburn, and skin cancer. UVA rays can also cause cancer, photoaging, or premature aging of the skin. Sunscreen loses some of its effectiveness after it’s applied. For example, if you apply SPF 30, your actual coverage will be closer to SPF 15. according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, compared to no sun exposure. For example, at SPF 30, about 3% of UVB rays hit your skin. Anything below SPF 30 doesn’t provide enough coverage. when you are outdoors for a long time it is recommended to use a sunscreen index of 50 or higher when at the beach or during sports. Experts also recommend applying sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside.
waterproof. A waterproof sunscreen retains its protection even when swimming or sweating. There are also waterproof and long-lasting sunscreens. It is important to reapply these sunscreens according to the label.
Minerals vs. Chemicals. Mineral or physical sunscreens are made from natural ingredients, usually zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.These sunscreens works as a physical barrier between your skin and the sun, reflecting ultraviolet rays.
Chemical sunscreens, usually made from avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone, are absorbed into the skin (some studies suggest they enter the bloodstream) and reflect UV rays. Sunscreen is resilient and long lasting on skin, so it’s recommended for those who practice outdoor sports or spending a lot of time in the sun.
Some tips for choosing the right sunscreen
If you have oily, acne-prone, or sensitive skin, choose a mineral or non-comedogenic formula. Sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is the best choice for people with sensitive skin.
For people undergoing acne treatment – such as doxycycline or Accutane medications, or topical medications like tretinoin – the treatment may make them more photosensitized, so an increase in SPF should be considered.
If you have dry skin, look for extra sunscreen. If you have dry skin, a sunscreen containing ceramides or hyaluronic acid can help. Or just layer your sunscreen of choice on top of your regular moisturizer.
If you have dark skin, avoid mineral sunscreens. If not rubbed in properly, mineral formulas are notorious for leaving a whitish cast and can turn dark skin gray.
Just because your risk of sunburn is low doesn’t mean you should skip SPF — sun damage like fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and rough skin can still affect your skin. In addition, there is always the risk of skin cancer.
A lot of data shows that even darker-skinned patients can get skin cancer.
If you have sensitive or combination skin, it’s best to buy a sunscreen with fewer ingredients. This helps prevent any kind of breakouts or reactions on the skin.If you have sensitive skin, when shopping for a new sunscreen you should also look for one that physically blocks UV rays rather than absorbing them. Yes, sunscreens based on zinc oxide and titanium dioxide contain fewer ingredients than sunscreens that absorb UV rays and are less irritating.
If you have normal skin, you have more freedom in choosing your sunscreen. If you are unsure whether to buy a blocker or absorber, we recommend that you make your decision based on your skin tone.If you have darker skin, chemical sunscreens will apply more vividly. , is better absorbed, but physical sunscreens can leave a white cast but blend into lighter skin. Make sure your sunscreen blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
