Sun protection is a must in every skincare routine. We need to use sun protection daily to assure healthy and youthful skin. Sunscreen plays a major role in protecting our skin from dangers of sun exposure like sun damage, pigmentation, melanoma, melasma, sunburn, etc. The harsh UV rays are responsible for instigating the majority of skin concerns. Sunscreen is beneficial not only in protecting the skin from UV rays but also helps in delaying ageing and its signs like wrinkles, fine lines, pigmentation, and textural issues.
But most of us are always confused about the type of sunscreen that works best for us, the SPF that can be used and is there anything in particular that has to be looked up in a sunscreen?
Sun protections majorly is categorised into two types chemical and mineral or physical sunscreen. Chemical and Physical sunscreen both are beneficial in protecting from sun damage but they differ in their active ingredients and the way they work to protect the skin. Here is the difference between the two and it will make easier for an individual to decide which one works best for them.
1. Chemical Sunscreen
Do not go by the name, because everything named chemical is not always harmful. They are often termed as 'absorbers'. The active component of a chemical sunscreen works by absorbing the UVA rays and decreasing its effect by converting the rays into heat energy and release heat from the skin. The main active ingredients in chemical sunscreen majorly include organic carbon-based compounds.
2. Physical Sunscreen
This sunscreen on the other hand is termed as 'reflector' as they work by reflecting the UVA rays. When we apply sunscreen its particles make a layer on the skin surface and reflect the UV rays when they hit the skin surface and thus protecting skin from its harmful effects. They physically block the rays and avoid it from making contact with skin cells. The main ingredients in a mineral sunscreen are zinc oxide or titanium oxide that also leaves a white cast on the skin surface.
How Mineral sunscreens are better than Chemical Sunscreen?
- Mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide and titanium oxide are the physical blockers that keep the skin cool, unlike chemical sunscreen that can release heat due to the conversion of UV rays into heat. Zinc oxide allows the skin to breathe more thus helps reduce chances of inflammation or any redness or irritation associated with skin concerns like sensitivity, rosacea or acne.
- Mineral sunscreen makes a protective layer on the skin against UV rays. They not only block UV rays but also reflect them before they even come in contact with skin surface as compared to chemical sunscreen where they penetrate the skin cells.
- Mineral sunscreen is the broad spectrum that reflects both UVA and UVB rays, in which UVA rays are the cause of premature ageing and development of melanoma as they penetrate deeper into skin layers and UVB rays cause sunburn and skin sensitivity like redness, irritation, and dryness. Mineral sunscreen protects from both the rays and its effects.
- Mineral sunscreen are hypoallergenic and safe for all skin types as they are non comedogenic as well. They are gentle to skin and free from silicones that can clog pores and lead to blemishes. They have anti inflammatory benefits as well.
- Moreover zinc oxide based sunscreens benefit skin with superpowers of zinc as well. Zinc is a cofactor in collagen synthesis and prevents premature ageing due to its role in collagen production as well. Moreover it is an amazing ingredient to prevent acne and its inflammation. It kills acne bacteria and regulates sebaceous gland activity too.
The most important thing is to use sunscreen regularly and religiously without fail all 365 days of the year. Consult a dermatologist in case of any queries and get expert opinion whilst choosing the right sunscreen with apt SPF for specific skin type.
Keep Healthy! Keep Glowing!