Sunscreens are a must when it comes to skin protection from the harsh UVA and UVB rays of the sun. Dermatologists recommend you apply a sunscreen both when inside and outside of your house. When you shop around the market today, you will find a host of sunscreen products available for your needs. At first glance, all of them appear to have the same goal- to protect you from the sun but do you know there are two variants of sunscreens in the market? Well, if you don’t, by the time, you finish reading this post, you will.
Physical vs Chemical sunscreen- know their differences
When it comes to the difference between physical and chemical sunscreens, the former is also popularly referred to as sunblocks. These sunscreens create a “block” or a barrier on your skin to filter the UV rays (responsible for skin damage) out. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, absorb and later scatter the harsh UV rays of the sun.
Physical sunscreens use ingredients that are mineral-based like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for blocking the UV rays of the sun. They work by staying on top of your skin to deflect and scatter the harsh UV rays away.
Pros of Physical sunscreens
Physical sunscreens offer you-
- Protection from both the UVA and UVB rays of the sun
- Safe to use on babies. They can be used by pregnant women
- Skin protection instantly on application. No need for you to wait for the product to sink in and settle on your skin
- Less likely to cause skin irritation and ideal for those with sensitive skin or are prone to rosacea (which can be triggered due to heat)
- Has a longer shelf life
Cons of Physical sunscreens
Physical sunscreens can-
- Be easily rubbed off, removed by sweat and rinsed off easily- this is why you must frequently re-apply it.
- Appears whitish or chalky especially on dark-skinned people or in photographs
- Feels heavy beneath make-up and increases perspiration
- Generally, is thicker and takes some time to be rubbed into the skin
- Needs to be generously applied to make it fully effective.
An overview of chemical sunscreens
Chemical sunscreens are often known as “organic” sunscreens as they contain chemical ingredients that absorb the sun’s UV rays. These compounds are generally oxybenzone, octisalate, octioxate and avobenzone. They transform the UV rays from the sun into heat that is subsequently released from your skin’s surface and scattered away.
Pros of Chemical sunscreens
Chemical sunscreens are-
- thinner in texture and lotion-like. It spreads onto your skin easily and is ideal for daily usage.
- You can take a lesser amount of the product for skin protection
- You can easily combine it with other skincare products containing enzymes and peptides as it helps you to boost your skin with a single product.
Cons of Chemical sunscreens
Disadvantages of using chemical sunscreens are-
- Products come with an added risk of both skin irritation and stinging, including your eyes
- Chemical sunscreens often combine many ingredients for creating protection for both UVA and UVB rays of the sun. They also contain an SPF number that is higher and could be a good reason for discomfort and irritation for people having sensitive skin
- You need to wait for at least 20 minutes after its application
- If one is prone to rosacea, there are higher chances of skin redness. The skin becomes hot and results in flushes.
- Increases breakouts if you have acne and the product can clog skin pores.
Check the sun protection factor (SPF) always
When you are choosing your sunscreen, choose a product with at least SPF 30. Products with SPF 15 will keep around 93% of the sun’s rays away. Products with SPF 30 block 97% of the sun’s rays. Select products in the market with UVA and UVB protection as well. Read the labels of the products carefully. If you are ordering products from online stores like Nykaa, Amazon, Purplle or others, read the product description and examine the list of ingredients. Make sure you are not allergic to any of them. Check customer ratings and reviews as well.
Shopping for your sunscreen
Now, you know the difference between physical sunscreen vs chemical sunscreen, the next step is to shop for the correct sunscreen. Consider your skin type as a guiding factor to buy the best products for your skin. Take time to research well especially if you are using a product for the first time. If you already use a sunscreen and it suits you well, do not change it for another brand frequently. With age, your skin changes and you might need something that is more specific to both protect and heal your skin if you have acne or other issues. We recommend the world’s most trusted brand of sunscreen for your skin.
Irrespective of whichever sunscreen you apply, it must be used daily. For getting the perfect sunscreen for your individual needs, consult an experienced dermatologist. There are a wide range of quality sunscreens in the market today and you will definitely find one that suits your skincare regime and goals successfully.
