We all know of the importance of wearing sun protection daily, but between Physical Sunscreen and Chemical Sunscreen how do we know which one is the best kind to use?
Which gives our skin the most protection while keeping it soft and healthy? Can we wear sunscreen on a daily basis and avoid breakouts or sensitive skin irritation?
PHYSICAL SUNSCREEN
Physical sunscreen contains active mineral ingredients, such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, which create a physical barrier between your skin and the sun. These products don't absorb into the skin but remain on the surface.
Physical sunscreens are naturally broad-spectrum (protection that measures UVA relative to the UVB protection), protecting against both UVA and UVB rays. It is often referred to as a physical blocker.
CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN
Chemical sunscreen contains organic (carbon-based) compounds, such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate and avobenzone, that are absorbed into the skin and penetrate the epidermis and dermis.
These chemical compounds function within the skin as well as on the surface to absorb the skin’s rays before they can penetrate the dermis and cause damage. It is often referred to as a chemical or organic absorber.
SO...PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN?
Choose the one that feels the most comfortable on your skin. If you’re an oilier skin type you’ll enjoy wearing one that is lightweight and not greasy. If you consider yourself sensitive and your skin gets red easily, you’ll want to find one that doesn’t sting the skin or make it feel irritated. If your skin colour is deeper in tone, you’ll want a sunscreen that doesn’t look chalky on the skin.
Both chemical and physical sunscreens do a great job at protecting your skin from the sun, just find one that feels good on the skin. Whichever type you choose, look for something that is broad spectrum, meaning they protect from both UVA known as ageing rays and UVB known as burning rays.
It’s also important to keep in mind that sensitive parts of the body such as the face and lips need specially formulated sunscreens compared to the rest of the body.
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A potent cosmeceutical moisturiser full of illuminating Vitamin B3, hydrating Hyaluronic Acid, and protective Zinc. Restore and enhance skin health daily and enjoy the added benefits of SPF protection.