There are several wrong or conflicting opinions about sunscreens
The first worry we have every summer is where to go on vacation, the next, what sunscreen to take with us.
Especially in the summer, our facial care routine must be daily and never lack sunscreen for the face and skin. In addition to the countless options from various sunscreen companies, we consumers are also asked to choose between two important differences: Mineral or chemical sunscreen?
Important information about sunscreens
We’ve all noticed the SPF label on sunscreen packages. But how many of us know exactly what these initials mean?
The SPF warns us about how long the sunscreen covers us from UVB rays. Therefore, the higher the number, the greater the sunscreen protection.
This indication is very important, especially if we consider that UVB rays can cause various types of cancer, such as skin cancer. Therefore, the next time you buy sunscreen, pay special attention to the number written next to the SPF initials.
What should I choose?
According to expert dermatologists at thekit.ca, there are several misconceptions or conflicting opinions surrounding the SPF of sunscreens. Dr. Nowell Solish answers and clarifies that chemical filters have better absorption of UV radiation. So instead of the rays causing damage to our DNA, the UV light is converted into heat and thus is safer for our skin. Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. This means that instead of absorbing the rays, they “send” them back. Because of this action, they are also classified as natural sunscreens.
Their advantages and disadvantages
Natural sunscreens, i.e. mineral ones, last a little longer than chemical ones on our skin. Another reason many choose a mineral sunscreen is because it has a smaller footprint on environmental pollution. As a negative, many consider its thick consistency and the fact that it feels heavier on the skin than the chemical. Anyone who also remembers from childhood the white color of sunscreens, which literally covered our bodies before the first dive, then it’s probably time to reveal to you that you were using mineral sunscreen, as this white color is one of the their characteristics. Since we mentioned the aesthetic part, let’s say that the chemical sunscreen wins here. Chemical sunscreens have an edge in aesthetics, as chemical formulas are quite sleek and runny. The reason is that they are made with smaller particles, more fluid and transparent, than mineral.
After all, are chemical sunscreens harmful to our skin and our health in general?
Although the word “chemical” these days refers more to something negative, in this particular matter the experts make it clear that the word “natural” is not exactly the appropriate designation of the other category of sunscreens. Zinc, for example, which is included as a component of mineral sunscreens, is a technical substance, so it is wrong to characterize it as natural or organic, which in fact it is not. Therefore, what we want to clarify is that whether something is good or bad is best judged after use and systematic testing, mainly to see how well it suits your skin, your needs and not only your ideology, as many times you can even fall out completely.
View the news feed and get the latest news.
