Which Sunscreen is Right for Me?
Living under the Texas sun, Sunscreen should be the first thing we think about before we head out the door. Living in beautiful Corpus Christi by the Bay, we should be extra cautious and careful when we head out. But, when choosing sunscreen, the question is – Which is the best for you?
Are you curious about the best sunscreens for everyday wear or the most common SPF myths? We’ve got the answers!
Sunscreens come in many variations. There are mineral and chemical formulas, lotions, powders, creams, sprays… So many choices, but we’re here to help! Finding the sunscreen that feels “just” right might take some trial and error. What works for one person may not work for everyone.
Knowing the difference between the two main types, chemical and physical (also known as: mineral) sunscreen is the first step in finding the perfect sunscreen for you and your family.
Chemical formulas may work well for your lifestyle; mineral formulas may work better for your skin type.
How Does Physical Sunscreen Work?
Physical sunscreen acts as a shield by sitting on your skin’s surface and deflecting UV rays to prevent sunburn. Physical is made with the mineral-based ingredients zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which help to reflect and scatter harmful rays from the sun. If the only active ingredients listed on your sunscreen’s label are zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide, it’s a physical sunscreen.
Why you might like Physical Sunscreens
Physical sunscreen sits on top of the skin instead of being absorbed and is considered ‘safer’ than chemical sunscreen, especially for children and pregnant women. It’s a quick option to apply some sun protection and go, as it starts working right away, as opposed to chemical, which can take about half an hour for effective sun protection. Physical sunscreen may also be a better option for those with sensitive skin.
Why you might not like Physical Sunscreens
Physical sunscreens do have one common complaint: Their ingredients often leave a white cast on the skin, but with a little extra blending can work very well.
How Does Chemical Sunscreen Work?
Chemical sunscreens partially absorb into the skin and prevent UV damage through a chemical reaction. Chemical sunscreen usually contains various chemical ingredients, which absorb and release damaging UV rays. If the active ingredients listed on your sunscreen’s label contain anything other than zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, it’s a chemical sunscreen (though some hybrid formulas contain both chemical and physical ingredients).
Why you might like Chemical Sunscreens
They can be easier to apply and does not leave behind the white cast that is often associated with physical sunscreens. Chemical formulations tend to be lighter and for that reason, are often preferred by oily skin types.
Why you might not like Chemical Sunscreens
Chemical sunscreens aren’t without their own controversies, though. While generally considered to be safe (and certainly better than going without SPF), chemical sunscreens are partially absorbed into the bloodstream and the potential side effects of this are still being studied. Our brands are working diligently to phase out the most harmful ingredients. Chemical sunscreens may also be more irritating to sensitive skin.
Come by and let us help!
We have knowledgeable staff at South Texas Dermatology waiting and ready to help you to decide which sunscreen protection you should go with. Stop by and try our tester bar, take home a sample, or try out our SkinCeuticals SkinScope for an in-depth skin assessment. We can narrow it down and make your sunscreen choice simple. After all, the “best sunscreen is the one you’ll use every day.”
LeahAnn Salinas
Cosmetic Consultant- South Texas Dermatology
Call our office to speak with one of our knowledgeable consultants 361-882-5560 Opt 7
