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sunscreens:  non-chemical, chemical, spf, and sorting it all out

Sunscreens.  There is no doubt about it, sun protection may be the most important "beauty trick" there is as well as being an integral part of a healthy lifestyle.  The sun's UV rays wreck havoc on the skin so choosing the sun protection products that suit your skin and lifestyle best are as important as choosing the right moisturizer.  So, here are a few things to consider when choosing the sunscreen products that are right for you.

Chemical vs. Non-Chemical Sunscreens

Sunscreens block the rays either by using  chemicals (there are a variety that are used) or by using the "physical" blockers titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide. The sunscreen which use only physical blockers are usually considered the non-chemical sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens  are more likely to cause allergic reactions or irritate the skin but the formulations are often lighter and easier to apply. Non-chemical sunscreens (physical sunscreens) are less likely to cause skin reactions.  However, their formulations can be heavy, white, and hard to rub in.  However, new formulations of chemical free sunscreens, such as Z-Cote, are helping to solve this problem.   

Those Evil Rays

The sun's damaging rays include UVA I, UVAII, and UVB and your sunscreen  needs to protect you from all of them.  So how do you do this?  Check the ingredients (often listed as "active ingredients" on the product's packaging). If you opt for a non-chemical sunscreen (one with either zinc oxide or titanium oxide) you're covered for both types of UVA light as well as giving you UVB protection.  Another choice to look for a product which combines Avobenzone (also known as Parsol 1789), which also blocks both types of UVA rays, with another sun blocking ingredient to block the UVB rays.  These UVB blockers would include Octisalate, Octinoxate, Oxybenzone, Octinoxate (also known as Octyl Methoxycinnamate) which are some of the more common ones used to block the UVB rays.  

La Roche-Posay Anthelios SX

A new ingredient called Merxoryl SX has recently been approved by the FDA that is said to be the best yet at blocking UVA Rays.  To the best of our knowledge this ingredient is available only in La Roche-Posay's Anthelios SX.  This product is a moisturizing cream with a broad spectrum sunscreen containing Merxoryl SX and an SPF 15 ($29 at The SkinStore.com).

And What About SPF (Sun Protection Factor)

SPF, as most of us are aware, is a numbering system which shows a sunscreen's ability to protect against UVB.  The higher the SPF number the greater the protection from burning.  At a minimum, your sunscreen should contain an SPF of at least 15 (on a day-to-day basis) and 30 if you're at the beach.  There seems to be some question and controversy as to whether a higher SPF allows you to stay in the sun longer without burning.  So, better safe than sorry, don't linger in the sun thinking your high SPF sunscreen will take care of your tender skin.

Putting It Together

So, what does it all mean?  In my mind, it boils down to picking a sunscreen (either non-chemical, La Roche Posay Anthelios SX, or one with Avobenzone combined with a UVB protector) and with an SPF of 15 or higher, depending upon your skin type and how much time you'll be spending in the sun.  

Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going into the sun.  In addition, re-apply it every 1 1/2 hours at a minimum as well as after swimming,  even if you are wearing waterproof  or water resistant sunscreen.

Don't forget your lips.  They need sun care too.  So, find a lip product with an SPF factor of at least 15.

In addition, here are some other tips found on the American Academy of Dermatology's website:

  • Avoid outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the strongest;
  • Seek shade whenever possible;
  • Wear protective clothing and accessories, such as wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses;
  • Follow the “Shadow Rule” – if your shadow is shorter than you are, the sun’s damaging rays are at their strongest and you are likely to sunburn; and
  • Avoid tanning beds.

And, remember... use a sunscreen daily, no matter what the season.   The sun can get you in the winter as well as the summer.

Some Choices To Consider

I couldn't begin to sort through all the sunscreens on the market that "make the grade."   Remember, too, that everyone's needs are different.  But, to get you started, I've listed some non-chemical and chemical sunscreens that you might want to check out.

Non-Chemical Sunscreens:

SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30 - $34 at The SkinStore.com

SkinCeuticals Sport UV Defense SPF 45 - $34 at The SkinStore.com

NIA24 Sun Damage Prevention SPF 30- $55 at eSkinStore.com(This combination anti-aging treatment and sun protection is a favorite of mine.)

Vanicream Sensitive Skin Sunscreen SPF 30 - $14.95 at DERMAdoctor.com

Bliss Oil-free Sunban Lotion for the Face SPF 30 - $32 at The SkinStore.com

Peter Thomas Roth Titanium Dioxide Sunblock SPF 30 - $26 at The SkinStore.com

California Baby Water Resistant Hypo-Allergenic Sunscreen, SPF 30+ - $13.49 at drugstore.com

Neutrogena Healthy Defense SPF 30 Eye Cream (Light Tint) - $11.99 at drugstore.com

Total Block LIPCotz SPF 45 - $9 at DERMAdoctor.com

Badger SPF 15 Sunblock Lipbalm - $4.49 at drugstore.com

sunscreens containing Avobenzone and a UVB protection ingredient:

Murad Oil-Free Sunblock, SPF 30 - $30 at The SkinStore.com

Peter Thomas Roth Max Sheer All Day Moisture Defense SPF 30 - $37 at The SkinStore.com

DERMAdoctor Body Guard Exquisitely Light SPF 30 For Face & Body - $25 at DERMAdoctor.com

Dr. Brandt Daily UV Protection SPF 30 Face Colorless - $32 at  DERMAdoctor.com

NeoStrata Daily Protection Sunscreen - SPF 29 - $22 at The SkinStore.com

DDF Moisturizing Photo-Age Sunscreen SPF 30 - $25 at The SkinStore.com

Neutrogena Ultra-Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 30 - $8.49 at drugstore.com

Rit Sun Guard Laundry Treatment UV Protectant - This product is added to your wash cycle to give your clothes an SPF protection of 30.  6 pack - $20 at  DERMAdoctor.com

Have a beautiful month!

CarolCurly haired girl with blow dryer

June 2006

Everyone's skin and skin needs are different.  The data is for informational purposes only.  If you have any questions in regard to which products are appropriate for your skin, we recommend that you contact your dermatologist or other health care professional.

E-commerce sites carrying product and other factual information were correct to the best of our knowledge when published; any subsequent changes may not be reflected.   If you find that an e-commerce site listed here no longer carries the brand you are looking for, please let us know as we can then update our site and help you find the brand that you are seeking.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
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