It’s That Time of Year Again To Talk About Sunscreen
With summer around the corner, we want to bring up sunscreen.
Yes it’s important, and you don’t need to be faced with hot sun to need it. Let’s start by talking about types of sunscreen and what we recommend.
Different Sunscreens
There are actually two different types of sunscreen: chemical and physical.
While both provide protection, chemical sunscreen and physical sunscreen differ in their active ingredients as well as the way they protect against UV exposure.
Sunscreen is essential to keep skin protected from the dangers of sun exposure, including sunburn, sun damage, and melanoma. It’s also beneficial in minimizing the aging effects of UV rays, such as fine lines and wrinkles, rough skin, and hyperpigmentation.
Chemical Sunscreen
Chemical sunscreens are often referred to as “absorbers.” Their active ingredients are organic (carbon-based) compounds that absorb UV rays. Through a chemical reaction, these compounds convert UV rays into heat, then release that heat from the skin.
Physical (Mineral) Sunscreen
Physical sunscreens are “reflectors.” Their active ingredients include titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide, which act as physical blockers. These minerals form a protective barrier on the skin and reflect harmful UV rays before they make contact with the skin’s surface. There are many benefits to your skin by using zinc oxide. It keeps your skin cool, provides mineral sun protection, supports collagen production, helps treat acne-prone complexions.
Mineral Sunscreens Are Generally Better
Mineral sunscreens are hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, perfect for the most sensitive skin types and acne-prone skin. They are also reef-safe; zinc oxide and titanium dioxide do not pose a threat to our planet’s delicate coral reefs. They are an ideal, environmentally-friendly choice for beachgoers and oceanside travellers.
Mineral sunscreens reflect both UVB and UVA rays from the skin’s surface. UVB rays cause sunburn and uncomfortable symptoms, UVA rays, which penetrate the skin deeper, are responsible for premature aging, and play a key role in the development of melanoma.
At Magic Laser and Aesthetics, we carry all-mineral sunscreen such as Lilikoi Mineral Defense collection, and Sun Defense Mineral Powder with different shades to suit your skin tone.
