SUNSCREEN: PHYSICAL VS CHEMICAL
DENIZ AKKAYA
Finding the right sunscreen is the most important step you can take in protecting your skin. The wrong sunscreen can cause a build-up in your pores if you have acne-prone skin.
For this reason, it is very important to find a suitable sunscreen for your skin. With countless products to choose from, the search for the perfect sunscreen can seem daunting, so let’s start with the basics. Sunscreens are divided into two as physical and chemical, and it is very important to know this distinction.
Physical sunscreens, also called mineral sunscreens, protect your skin from sun damage in a completely different way. They contain active mineral components such as titanium dioxide, which sits on top of your skin and reflects UV rays from the skin. Physical sunscreens act instantly as soon as they are applied to the skin – they fight to protect you from both UVA and UVB rays.
Chemical sunscreens protect your skin from harmful rays in different ways. They contain organic, carbon-based compounds that convert UV rays into heat. Chemical sunscreens are also generally lighter, making them perfect for everyday use. The formula gets absorbed into the skin smoothly, making other products to sit on top smoothly. Because of the simple and lightweight formula, chemical sunscreens often also have skin beneficial ingredients such as niacinamide or hyaluronic acid.
While there are many opinions about which type of sunscreen is more effective and better for the skin, it actually depends on the person. If you have a more active lifestyle, chemical formulas may be best for you. However, if you don’t like the idea of chemicals (even if they’re organic) being absorbed into your skin, you can turn to physical sunscreens instead. The choice is up to you, but there are some things to look out for. Regardless of your age or whether you live in a sunny climate, sunscreen should always have a place in your daily routine. It’s always a good idea to use a product labeled “non-comedogenic,” so you don’t have to worry about unexpected blemishes. If you have very sensitive skin, dermatologists recommend the use of physical formulas to prevent irritation that can be caused by chemical components. Finally, if you have a dark complexion, physical sunscreens can leave a white cast on your face, while chemical formulas integrate with it without coloring your skin.
