Wearing sunscreen is easily one of the best things you can do for your skin. It helps to protect it from the sun’s harmful rays and can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. It also prevents wrinkles, sun spots, and other signs of aging. But with so many different kinds of sunscreen on the market, how do you know which one is right for you? Let’s explore two of the most popular types of sunscreen: chemical and Physical (mineral).
Chemical Sunscreen
Chemical sunscreens protect your skin from UV rays by absorbing the radiation from the sun. The shield provided by chemical sunscreen keeps UV radiation from damaging your skin. Instead, the radiation is simply absorbed by the sunscreen, which is destroyed in the process (as opposed to your skin). Some of the most common compounds in chemical sunscreen include avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone.
Physical/Mineral Sunscreen
Physical sunscreen (also known as mineral sunscreen) protects your skin by physically blocking UV rays. It works by forming a barrier on the surface of your skin that reflects the radiation away from you. Unlike chemical sunscreen, mineral sunscreen does not interact with the radiation; instead, it simply deflects it. The main ingredients in mineral sunscreens are usually minerals like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen for You
Both chemical and physical sunscreens can be effective at protecting your skin from UV rays, though there are some differences between the two. Chemical sunscreen is often more sweat- and water-resistant than physical sunscreen. If you’re an athlete or someone who spends a lot of time swimming, chemical sunscreen may be the better option for you. On the other hand, physical sunscreen doesn’t absorb into your skin as much as chemical sunscreen, so it can be a good choice for people with sensitive skin.
Contact Maloney Plastic Surgery Today
If you’re interested in learning more about skin protection, contact our team of skin specialists at Maloney Plastic Surgery today. We can review your individual skin type and help you determine the best sunscreen for your needs.
