Is sunscreen really essential all the time

In a word….yes.

We get asked quite often “is sunscreen really essential all the time. Sun exposure accounts for 80-90% of visible aging most of which is preventable with sunscreen. “One of the most effective sunscreen ingredients that’s universally tolerated across all skin types and tones is zinc oxide,” explains Dr. Nina Desai, Board-Certified Dermatologist. “It blocks harmful UVA and UVB rays, and is both photostable and water-resistant, so it won’t break down in the sun or in water.” It is great for people with sensitive skin, with eczema, and rosacea. It is also found in baby products (like diaper cream). It is soothing and has anti-inflammatory properties. Dr. Desai adds, “It’s known as a broad-spectrum sunscreen so it has one of the broadest UVA coverages of all sunscreen ingredients available right now, plus UVB coverage,”

Zinc Oxide is considered a physical sunscreen versus a chemical sunscreen. This means that instead of absorbing into the skin, this mineral sits on the skin and reflects the sun’s rays like a mirror. Chemical sunscreens are made up of molecules that absorb the sun’s rays instead of reflecting them. These absorbed UV rays break the bonds within these molecules releasing heat. When most of the bonds are broken, it’s time to reapply. Because of this heat release, chemical sunscreen can be a problem for people with melasma or hyperpigmentation as both of these can be exacerbated by heat from the sun as well as the rays.

I know many people when they think of zinc oxide, remember the white goo that didn’t rub in and would stay white on the skin. Anna De La Cruz a master Aesthetician who works with Glo Skin Beauty explains that, “Many formulations now use micronized technology to reduce the zinc oxide particle size, so it appears transparent when applied to the skin. In some formulations to help avoid any ashiness, it’s combined with a flexible, sheer tint for optimal application and a flawless finish.”

The FDA has only approved two mineral sunscreens-titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. So in your quest for sunscreens, look for these two ingredients as the active ingredients in your sunscreen. As a Glo Skin Beauty girl, I love the tinted moisturizer sunscreen for runaround days and the Solar shade SPF 50 for days when I am out in the sun gardening or at the beach (it’s also reef safe!). It doesn’t absorb so I don’t have a problem with it clogging pores and causing breakouts on my skin. Glo has a few different mineral sunscreens. As their makeup is mineral-based their foundations have sun protection as well. If you are having problems finding a sunscreen that is right for you, you can come into the salon and try one of Glo’s!

Regardless which sunscreen you choose, do use one on all surfaces exposed to the sun and stay safe