DEFINITON

-  The term, “SPF”, often associated to represent an abbreviated version of sunscreen, is shortened to stand for “Sun Protection Factor.”

- The number that is often given next to the term, “SPF” represented the number that indicates how well the sunscreen protects the skin against damages from the sun, such as sunburn.

SPF NUMBER MEANING

- Typically, the higher the number of SPF, the better it is for protecting your skin. For example, “SPF 50” is great to use on its own, but in comparison to “SPF 100”, it does not do as much.

- This is because on the spectrum of SPF, the higher the number, the better the sunscreen is at protecting and preventing damage from UV rays.

IMPORTANCE OF SUNSCREEN

- Sunscreen is crucial to be worn every day, as it not only provides protection from the sun itself but also improves the overall quality of your skin.

- This illustrates the impression that sunscreen contains key ingredients that are beneficial to the skin, for which the distinct ingredients that go into sunscreen ensure its functionality.

COMMON TYPES OF SUNSCREEN

- The most common and popular sunscreen contains chemical filters.

- In addition, the chemical filters within these products generally incorporate a combination of approximately two to six of the following active ingredients: oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate.

- On the other hand, chemical sunscreens are often seen to be analyzed on a comparative basis with mineral sunscreens.

APPLICATION OF SUNSCREEN

- The application of mineral sunscreens often feels sticky going on the skin, as it contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

- Mineral sunscreens, also referred to as physical sunscreens can symbolize a shield, as it deflects the sun’s rays.

- Whereas, most chemical sunscreens do not feel as sticky.

CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN

- Chemical sunscreens can symbolize a sponge, as it absorbs UV light.

- The contributing factors of sunscreen generally being considered an important role in your skincare routine is because sunscreens protect the skin.

- They play an important role in blocking UV rays, abbreviated for the term ultraviolet radiation, from being absorbed by the skin.

- Consequently, applying sunscreen can prevent UV radiation damages the skin, and leads to sunburns and skin cancer.

SUNSCREEN BRANDS:

- One particular sunscreen brand that has gained popularity for its chemical sunscreen is the Anthelios Melt-in Milk Body & Face Sunscreen Lotion by LA ROCHE-POSAY, as it is called the “best invisible sunscreen.”

- Not only does it have SPF 30, but it is also marketed to be water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

- Over and above that, LA ROCHE - POSAY’S Body and face sunscreen has gained popularity for becoming a great, well-known chemical sunscreen because it claims to not have any oily or tacky feelings.

- However, some testers have reported experiencing a slight sheen after application. Another popular chemical sunscreen is the “Best Face Sunscreen” from LiftActiv Peptide-C VICHY, containing SPF 30. VICHY’S chemical sunscreen impressed the testers as it was extremely hydrating and did not cause any breakouts or irritation.

- In addition, it was claimed amongst testers to be the easier product to use as it did not interfere with their makeup, and did not leave a white cast.

Works Cited

1. https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/report/the-trouble-with-sunscreen-chemicals/#:\~:text=The most common sunscreens contain,oxide and%2For titanium dioxide.

2. https://www.mustelausa.com/blogs/mustela-mag/mineral-vs-chemical-sunscreen-know-the-difference

3. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty/anti-aging/g1288/best-sunscreens/