Jul 253 min read

Sunscreen is More Than Just Physical vs. Chemical

Prioritize sunscreens that contain well-researched and effective ingredients.

When it comes to summer skincare, sunscreen is an indispensable yet often headache-inducing step. You need to consider sun protection level (SPF) to shield your skin from UV damage, but also avoid unwanted effects like white cast, excess oil, or irritation. On top of that, there’s the question of proper cleansing to remove sunscreen residue and prevent clogged pores.

Let’s break down some key sunscreen facts to help you find the perfect sunscreen for your needs!

Fact #1 Understanding UV Rays and Sun Protection Factors (SPF)

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. While it is invisible to the human eye, it can penetrate the skin and cause damage. UV rays are divided into three categories: UVC, UVB, and UVA.

UVC: The shortest wavelength UV ray, it is almost entirely absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere and does not pose a significant threat to humans.
UVB: Responsible for sunburn, UVB rays penetrate the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) and cause it to redden, tan, and burn. Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is a measure of a sunscreen’s ability to protect against UVB rays. A higher SPF number indicates greater protection.
UVA: UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin, reaching the dermis, and can cause premature aging, wrinkles, and dark spots. They can also pass through glass and some clothing. The protection level against UVA rays is indicated by the PA rating, with four pluses (+) being the highest.

Fact #2 Mineral vs. Chemical vs. Hybrid Sunscreens

Sunscreens can be broadly categorized into two types based on their sun protection mechanism: physical and chemical.

Physical Sunscreens act as a physical barrier on the skin’s surface, reflecting UV rays away from the skin. Common ingredients include titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. These sunscreens are less likely to be absorbed by pores, making them less irritating to the skin. However, they can also leave a white cast due to the mineral particles.
Chemical Sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin. They offer a variety of active ingredients, some of which may harm coral reefs. Chemical sunscreens tend to be lightweight and have a pleasant texture. However, the chemical absorption process can sometimes irritate the skin and trigger allergic reactions.

Hybrid Sunscreens:
Combining the advantages of both physical and chemical sunscreens, hybrid sunscreens aim to provide broad-spectrum protection while minimizing irritation. They may contain a combination of titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and chemical sunscreen ingredients.

Fact #3 Sunscreen as an Everyday Essential

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a pervasive threat to our skin, penetrating through clouds, glass, and clothing. It can cause sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Therefore, sunscreen should not be considered an occasional skincare step but rather an essential part of our daily routine, regardless of the weather or occasion.

Choose from three distinct sunscreens, each designed to address specific skin concerns:

Moisturizing: Nourishes and hydrates dry skin for a supple complexion.
Anti-aging: Combats signs of aging, promoting a youthful appearance.
Oil-Balancing: Regulates oil production, preventing shine and breakouts.

Sunscreens that blend with skincare and makeup

The Organic Store is excited to introduce a groundbreaking new sunscreen line from Q+A. After three years of meticulous development, Q+A unveils a range of sunscreens designed for seamless integration into your daily routine, addressing three common sunscreen woes:

Compatibility Chaos: No more worrying about clashing with other skincare or makeup!
Greasy Goodbye: Forget the heavy, pore-clogging feeling.
Farewell White Cast: Enjoy a lightweight formula that leaves no white residue.

These innovative sunscreens boast a unique blend of mineral and organic (chemical) UV filters. This hybrid approach harnesses the strengths of both sunscreen types while maintaining a robust broad-spectrum SPF 50 to shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays.