Do You Know What's In Your Sunscreen?
With consistent beautiful sun here in Kelowna BC, it is important to remember to apply sun screen daily - even when there is cloud coverage. Sun damage is one of the leading contributors to aging skin and one of the easiest to prevent. Be weary of applying a chemical sunscreen though as they absorb into your body through the skin. Laboratory studies indicate that some chemical UV filters may mimic hormones, and physicians report sunscreen-related skin allergies, which raises important questions about unintended human health consequences from frequent sunscreen application.
Active ingredients in sunscreens come in two forms, mineral (physical) and chemical filters. Each uses a different mechanism for protecting skin and maintaining stability in sunlight. The most common sunscreens on the market contain chemical filters. These products typically include a combination of two to six of the following active ingredients: oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate and octinoxate. Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. A handful of products combine zinc oxide with chemical filters.
For a physical sunscreen to apply to the face, my current favourite is the dermatologist recommended Elta MD line.
The EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41 is perfect for all skin types including extra sensitive skin and post-procedure. It has a light tint and goes on smoothly. This physical block sunscreen is safe to use on acne as well but if you are really concerned about your acne then you can try the EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 which is meant to protect skin prone to breakouts, rosacea and discolouration.
For your body, you should continue with the a physical sunscreen. You want to be able to apply something that goes on smoothly, covers more surface area and hydrates the skin. I like the oil based physical sunscreen from Josie Maran as it helps hydrate my skin. You can apply this one to your face as well but if you don't need more oil on your skin during the summer heat, then I'd recommend leaving this one out of your face skin care regime.
Check out Josie Maran sunscreen
The main thing to remember is stick to physical block sunscreens. Do your research and read ingredient lists to make sure what your putting on your skin, you are also ok with putting into your body.