Sunscreen 101: Physical vs Chemical Sunscreens
Posted on by AdminEveryday our skin is exposed to UV damage, yes even on cloudy days. The burning rays (UVB) may not be out but the damaging or “aging” rays (UVA) are still creeping through the clouds. These rays penetrate deeply into the skin layers, damaging collagen and cells which leads to wrinkling, hyperpigmentation and loss of elasticity. UVB rays on the other hand mostly affect the outer layers of the skin. They cause sunburns and tanning that increase the risk of skin cancer and other disorders. Fact: Did know the risk of skin cancer doubles in the people who have had five or more sunburns? So what do we do? Make applying sunscreen a part of your morning routine. Like your moisturizer, don’t leave home without it. Under your makeup? Even better! You will get double the sun protection when you wear a sunscreen under your minerals.
So which ingredient is better? At Rejuva Medispa, we say both. Using a combination of physical and chemical you get a cosmetically elegant finish on the skin.
Here are our Pros and Cons of both Physical and Chemical sunscreens.
Why we like Physical Sunscreens:
- It is a mineral so they are natural
- Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide are active minerals that work by sitting on the top of the skin deflecting and scattering UV rays
- There is no wait required after application as the minerals are like a sunshield
- Great for sensitive skins like rosacea and safe on kids
- Has a longer shelf life
Why we don’t like em:
- Rubs off easily via sweat and can rinse off easily
- May leave a whiteish cast on darker skin tones
- Can be less protective if not applied evenly as UV rays can penetrate between the sunscreen molecules
Why we like Chemical Sunscreens:
- Contain organic (carbon-based) compounds, such as Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octisalate and Avobenzone which create a chemical reaction to absorb UV rays
- They can be thinner in consistency and therefore become a more spreadable and wearable sunscreen
- Less is needed as the molecules are evenly spread out and create a thin barrier across the skin
- Allows the addition of other treatment ingredients such as peptides and enzymes which offer skin benefits
Why we don’t like em:
- Requires about 20 minute of wait time before you can go into the sun
- Not ideal for sensitive/reactive skins due to the conversion of UV rays into heat, which can worsen symptoms of sensitive skins types (rosacea)
- The SPF can be used up more quickly when in direct sunlight so reapplication is more frequent
When it comes to sunscreens, its hard to say which one is the best. Each brand will have their own formulas so always try before you buy. We carry sunscreens that have a combination of both chemical and physical, and also sunscreen products that are just physical. If you are unsure of which sunscreen would be best for you and your family, stop by the clinic to see our different brands and products!
About Rejuva Medispa and Laser
Rejuva Medispa and Laser is the Fraser Valley’s leading skin rejuvenation clinic. The Rejuva team collectively has over 45 years of combined expertise in the fields of medicine and medical aesthetics, making us uniquely qualified to combine and customize anti-aging treatments and skin care regimes to suit your specific skin type and lifestyle.
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