Sunlight contains different wavelengths of rays, including ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB).
UVB rays causesunburnbut cannot pass through glass.
Too much of either canraise the risk of developing skin cancer.
LAW Ho Ming / Getty Images
LAW Ho Ming / Getty Images
What Is Mineral Sunscreen (Physical Sunscreen)?
The particles are large in traditional formulations and appear white or opaque on the skin.
How Does Chemical Sunscreen Work?
Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients that absorb the sun’s ultraviolet rays before they can damage your skin.
The rays are released from your skin as heat.
Common chemicals used in sunscreen include:
Are Chemical Sunscreens Safe?
Concerns had been raised that these chemicals might affect certain hormones in the body, including reproductive hormones.
The review found that the chemicals do reach the bloodstream but do not appear to harm health.
However, the experts called for further study.
Any good sunscreen will help protect you from increasing your risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging.
The main factor isfinding a sunscreenthat you will use.
Many formulationsare available, so consider whether you want a lotion, cream,spray, or stick.
Do you want a different formfor your facethan your body?
Convenience and ease of use may influence whether you use it consistently.
Look for broad-spectrum sunscreen, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Visible light can darken the skin or worsen uneven tones.
If you are concerned about the ingredients, be aware that all sunscreens contain chemicals.
Hybrid sunscreens, which contain both mineral and chemical components, are also available.
UPF clothing can lose its effectiveness over time, so replace it as recommended.
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Acne.org.Do physical sunscreens absorb ultraviolet (UV) radiation?
2016;32(1):5-10. doi:10.1111/phpp.12214
Food and Drug Administration.FDA proposes sunscreen monograph updates.
Guan LL, Lim HW, Mohammad TF.Sunscreens and photoaging: a review of current literature.Am J Clin Dermatol.
2021;84(5):1393-1397. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2020.04.079
Skin Cancer Foundation.All about sunscreen.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Sunscreen FAQs.
Food and Drug Administration.Tips to stay safe in the sun: from sunscreen to sunglasses.
