A:Physical sunscreens include Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, which are minerals extracted from the earth. They literally provide a reflective barrier from the sun, stopping the UV from penetrating the skin. A chemical sunscreen absorbs the UV and scatters its energy as heat. Common chemical sunscreens include Avobenzone and Oxybenzone. You need a combination of chemical sunscreens to ensure that all parts of the UV spectrum - both UVA and UVB are filtered.
Q: Why would you choose one against the other?A: If you don't want to aggravate sensitive skin with heat, don't apply a chemical sunscreen. "This isn't to say that the chemical sunscreens are bad, it just means that they aren't preferable if you have sensitive skin," says Sally. Historically, physical sunscreens tended to be really chalky - think Australian cricketer or surfer; white stripes under their eyes and along their lips.
However, recent technologies mean that these physical ingredients are no longer chalky on the skin. The ingredient is now micronised and so refined that it is completely invisible on the skin. Similarly cosmetic formulators now understand the benefit of including anti-oxidants to these sun protecting lotions too. By adding anti-oxidant vitamins to the formula, you can help prevent pigmentation marks, lines and wrinkles, damage accumulated on a daily basis.
- Skin cancer affects around 50,000 Britons every year and kills more than 2 per cent of them.
- Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun produces vitamin D; good for bones, muscles and the immune system.
- Inspect moles and freckles monthly, noting any changes. If you notice any, inform your GP.
A: Your Sun Protection Factor refers only to the amount of time you are allowed to stay in the sun before burning (the affect of UVB). There is no universally recognized UVA system of recognition, so you need to look for sunscreen that provides protection from both. The average consumer thinks that the higher their SPF protection, the longer they can stay in the sun.
An SPF of 15 and higher is considered a complete sun block. An SPF 15 gives you 93.3% protection of UVB rays while an SPF 30 gives you 96.6% protection. So by going for a higher SPF, you are simply adding more chemical to your skin with little additional protection.
With another scorching summer around the corner, we suggest that you bond with the ingredients label on the back of the trillions of sunscreen products out there. Remember to reapply your sunscreen regularly and try using an SPF product daily to help protect from accumulated sun damage. If you're a sensitive thing, reach for the titanium, or cover up with a T-shirt for the best protection.
