GUIDE TO INGREDIENTS IN SUNSCREEN

Hopefully you know by now that you need to wear  sunscreen every day, but are you familiar with the best sunscreen ingredients? All sun protection formulas are not the same, so it’s important to have knowledge around sunscreen ingredients and what to look for and avoid in sunscreen.

This guide will help you understand what’s in sunscreen and how each ingredient protects against the effects of UVA and UVB radiation. We’ll also touch on some ingredients to avoid, before providing targeted product recommendations from our Anthelios range of sunscreens for the face and body.

How UVA works:

• UVA radiation is present all year regardless of the weather and can penetrate glass to reach you indoors.
• Rather than causing sunburn, the damage from this kind of radiation can take years to become noticeable.
• UVA’s long rays penetrate deep into the dermis, causing long-term damage such as wrinkles, pigmentation and skin cancer.
• These rays are considered the primary cause of premature visible skin ageing.

How UVB works:

• UVB radiation is responsible for sunburn and tanning, meaning their effects show up more quickly than those of UVA radiation.
• The SPF (sun protection factor) number on your sunscreen measures protection against UVB rays.
• Unlike UVA, glass can stop UVB rays.
• UVB has a shorter wavelength than UVA, but more energy. This means UVB is also harmful and cancer-causing.

You can’t see or feel either type of UV radiation. Read our guide The UV Index: How it Helps You Stay Safe in the Sun to learn more about tracking UV levels.

CHEMICAL VS PHYSCIAL SUNSCREENS

You may have heard of the two main types of sunscreen ingredients: chemical and physical. It’s important to be aware of the pros and cons of chemical and physical sunscreens and opt for the formula with the most benefits for your skin type and concerns.

Chemical sunscreens utilise ingredients that absorb and reflect UV radiation via a chemical reaction. These chemical filters can be combined to enhance protection and can be formulated in a light wearable texture. However, some people are sensitive to some chemical sunscreen ingredients.

Physical sunscreen ingredients consist of fine mineral particles (often zinc oxide or titanium oxide) that reflect and absorb UV rays, also minimising damage. These formulas are less likely to trigger sensitive skin, however they offer less UVA protection and can feel thick on the skin. Their heaviness also means these ingredients are less suitable for acne-prone skin.

OUR ADVICE ON THE MOST EFFACACIOUS SUNSCREEN INGREDIENTS

We’ve put together a list of the most efficacious sunscreen ingredients and their key features. You should look for these ingredients when choosing a sunscreen, as well as paraben-free, oil-free and fragrance-free formulas depending on your skin’s needs.

ZINC OXIDE

This physical sunscreen ingredient is non-sensitising and stable, offering protection from UVA and UVB rays.

MEXORYL SX [ECAMSULE]

Unlike most sunscreen ingredients Mexoryl SX (also called Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid and listed as Ecamsule in therapeutic sunscreens) is water soluble. Mexoryl SX is a renewable, photostable carbon based filter that doesn’t break down under the sun’s rays. This ingredient provides protection against UVB and UVA.

OCTINOXATE

This chemical filter is a potent UVB absorber that works well when combined with avobenzone for broad-spectrum protection.

AVOBENZONE

One of the most popular modern sunscreen ingredients, chemical filter avobenzone blocks UVA. This ingredient destabilises with light exposure but can be mixed with other chemical filters to enhance stability.

HOMOSALATE

This chemical filter is very common and works well with other chemical sunscreens. Homosalate absorbs UVB radiation.

WHAT TO AVOID IN SUNSCREEN

Over time, some sunscreen ingredients have fallen out of favour due to side effects or environmental impacts. Here are some sunscreeningredients to avoid while pregnant, and in general.

FRAGRANCE AND ALCOHOL

Added fragrance can allude to other unknown ingredients in sunscreen products and can be disruptive to those with sensitive skin. The inclusion of simple alcohols in sunscreen can also impact skin by increasing sensitivity and dryness. However, not all alcohols are considered bad for skin – this depends on the type used and concentration level

PABA

Para Amino Benzoic Acid (PABA) is a UVB absorber, but its side effects of increased photosensitivity and risk of allergies has led to it being banned in some countries.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE.

Apply 20 minutes before sun exposure. Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection so wear protective clothing and seek shade. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming, towelling and perspiring in accordance with directions.

Wondering how to help the kids in your life stay sun safe? Read our next article Sun Protection Tips for Kids.

ADD SUN PROTECTION TO YOUR SKINCARE