Sunscreens are vital to protect our skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. However, what people don’t know is that sunscreens potentially hold ingredients that may be harmful to our health.
This fact makes choosing the right sunscreen more challenging, especially if you have a sensitive skin type. A sensitive skin is prone to breakouts and irritation, so we understand when you say you are hesitant about slathering sunscreen all over your body, especially your face.
However, the good thing is, there are sunscreens that are specifically developed for sensitive skin. Check out some tips to help you choose the best sunscreen that best fits your skin type:
Choose mineral
More often than not, sensitive skin benefits from mineral or physical sunscreen when compared to those products with chemical filters, including avobenzone, oxybenzone, octisalate, and homosalate. Make sure to look for titanium dioxide or zinc oxide on the label, as these ingredients provide a physical shield between the harmful UV rays and the skin.
Go fragrance-free
Some sunscreens contain certain fragrances that may be harmful for people with sensitive skin. Fragrances can cause irritation, sensitivity, and redness. According to Dr. Marisa Garshick M.D., a dermatologist at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery (MDCS) in New York, “some patients may actually be able to tolerate a chemical filter-containing sunscreen, but not the fragrance or botanical ingredients
Check the label
When choosing the best sunscreen, you should look for a label that says “broad-spectrum” or has at least SPF 30. These labels mean that the sunscreen can protect your skin against the harmful effects of UVB and UVA rays.
Take note that high SPF products do not guarantee total protection from sunburn. Long-term skin damage, and even skin cancer. Broad spectrum matters when choosing the right sunblock because UV rays affect our skin differently. For instance, UVA rays can cause wrinkles and speed up the skin ageing process, while UVB rays are the ones that contribute to skin cancer and sunburn. UVA rays are also present not only when you’re out by the beach. It is present throughout the year and wherever you may be, even when it’s cloudy and when you’re at home!
Opt for oil-free sunscreen
Do you have acne-prone skin? Then the more reasons why to use sunscreen. Did you know that dark marks and blemishes after a breakout will get darker with sun exposure? That’s why if you are acne-prone or have a lot of blemishes, it’s best to wear sunscreen to lessen the severity of your marks. Use oil-free and non comedogenic sunscreen. A sunscreen that contains all of the said features will not clog pores, hence will lessen the likelihood of pimples.
Sunscreens with hydrators
There are instances wherein some sunscreens come with hydrating properties. This is perfect for those who have dry, eczema-prone skin. Look for ingredients that contain ceramides or colloidal oatmeal to keep your skin moisturized while protecting it from the harmful UV rays.
The importance of Vitamin D
You have probably heard it multiple times already—Vitamin D is important to keep your health in tip-top shape. It is essential to keep the bones healthy, boost immune function, and even in managing depression. So, when you are out and about to get some Vitamin D, make sure to wear sunscreen, or at least drink supplement with vitamin D. However, another healthy way to get Vitamin D is through a balanced diet.
Make sure to patch test
If you are trying out a new sunscreen for the first time, make sure to do a patch test. Take a small amount and slather it on your inner arm. If your skin didn’t have any reactions for a day or two, you should be fine to try it. If you have a skin allergy of some sort, it is advisable to do an allergy patch test with your dermatologist.
UV light is a major cause of skin cancer, and proper use of sunscreen will help minimize your risk of such critical illness. With a slew of sunscreens in the market, it can be a challenge to pick what’s right for you. But with the guidelines stated above, we are sure you’re bound to find the right product that you and your skin will love in the long run.
No responses yet