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Aug 15, 20204 min read

Sunscreen Types, Tips & Practical Applications

Now that we’ve covered the fundamentals as to what sunscreen is, it’s time to go over the practical use of sunscreen. How exactly do things like UV rays and SPF translate into picking a good sunscreen? And what about all those types of sunscreen? Stick around for a bite-sized breakdown on using sunscreen.


Another consideration when purchasing sunscreen that should be made is the various forms of sunscreen. While the majority of people may immediately associate sunscreens with a cream or spray type consistency, sunscreen developers have gotten really creative with the application of sunscreen. As we’ve mentioned previously in our first blog post, tons of new innovative products are starting to come out on the market, such as: gel (completely transparent), powder, spray, and even sticks!


The sunscreen industry is huge! You might see sunscreens geared towards children, athletes as well as being incorporated into cosmetic products like foundation, moisturizers, and setting powders. There are also facial sunscreens geared towards specific skin types and skin needs, as we’ll delve a little more in our third post.


Apart from the diverse range in textures, there exists another subtle difference between the mechanisms by which sunscreens protect you, namely, chemical versus physical sunscreens.


Physical sunscreens (or mineral sunscreens) act like a physical shield between you and the sun!

They contain ingredients that deflect the UV rays, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Physical sunscreens can be applied immediately before sun exposure and act as a physical barrier against the sun’s UV rays. These sunscreen are often considered to be safer for irritated or sensitive skin as it sits directly on top of the skin rather penetrating through the layers. However, as with all products, there are a few downsides to physical sunscreen. The most common complaint is that it often creates a white cast on the skin. Likewise, the consistency is thicker than that of chemical sunscreens and may feel uncomfortable for certain users to wear.



Chemical sunscreens act in a series of steps. First, the chemical sunscreen is absorbed by the skin. Then, molecules in the sunscreen will absorb incoming UV rays, converting its energy into the form of heat. Finally, the heat energy is released back into the atmosphere from the surface of your body.


As a result, chemical sunscreens need to be applied about roughly 20 minutes before sun exposure so that it has sufficient time to absorb into your skin. The most common chemical absorbents are oxybenzone and avobenzone. The upside to chemical sunscreen is that it generally doesn’t leave a white cast or thick texture. It’s also more water resistant which is great for outdoor environments. The downside, however, is that the active ingredients like oxybenzone have been linked to health concerns and environmental issues— topics we will investigate in part 3 of this sunscreen series!



Practical Tips for Application

So now that you’ve gone out armed with this new-found knowledge on sunscreen, it's important to discuss how and when sunscreen should be applied. Although this information may seem common knowledge, the following tips we’ve compiled are sunscreen considerations that are frequently overlooked.

  1. Wash your hands before applying sunscreen! Especially if you are applying it to your face.

  2. Ensure that you are applying enough. Usually about 1 ounce for an adult’s entire body (roughly the size of a golf ball).

  3. Apply in advance! This applies mainly to chemical sunscreens as you want to make sure it has time to absorb into your skin.

  4. Apply frequently! It’s important to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or so and even more frequently when you’re around water.

  5. Choose the right SPF- anything below SPF 15 will only prevent burning. If you are looking to prevent other issues like premature aging or spots, you might want to opt for a higher SPF.

  6. Choose Broad Spectrum! Broad spectrum means that it will protect against all types of UV rays. Remember: UVB is primarily responsible for burning your skin and increasing your risks of developing skin cancer, while UVA primarily causes skin aging and wrinkles.

  7. Choose the right texture! Bottled sunscreen is usually your best bet. Newer forms of sunscreen, such as stick and powder, may not offer the best coverage and protection.

  8. Understand that sunscreen is NOT an ultimate defense against the sun. You should always be cautious when going outside during peak hours (between the hours 10 a.m. and 4 p.m) and use other sun protection methods like seeking shade and wearing protective clothing.

  9. Be sure to cover all areas of the skin that may be potentially exposed to the sun even on overcast days! Some areas that are commonly missed include the ears and lips (there are lip balms available on the market that offer SPF protection)


Now that we’ve covered the science behind sunscreen, different types and practical applications, stick around for our third and final blog post in this series. In it, we’ll be covering an aspect of sunscreen you might not have considered previously- namely, medical disparities associated with sunscreen usage, as well as environmental concerns.

 

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