Wearing sunscreen to protect yourself and prevent skin cancer is essential, regardless of your skin type or condition. However, with the variety of sunscreen choices, which do you choose? Which kind is best for optimal sun protection: chemical or physical sunscreen? The skincare specialists at Belladerm MedSpa are here to cover the debate: chemical sunscreen vs. physical sunscreen. Continue reading to learn about the pros and cons of each and identify which you should choose for skin protection.

What is Chemical Sunscreen?

Chemical sunscreen is a popular type of sunscreen that protects your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Unlike physical sunscreen, which creates a barrier on the skin’s surface, chemical sunscreen contains ingredients that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat energy, which is then released from the skin. Chemical sunscreen is typically easier to apply and is less visible on the skin compared to physical sunscreen. It also provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, making it an ideal choice for daily use.

Belladerm Chemical Sunscreen Offerings

• SkinMedica Essential Defense Mineral Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 32, Tinted
• SkinMedica Essential Defense Mineral Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 32, Untinted
• Colorescience Face Shield
• Colorescience Face Shield Glow
• iS Clinical Perfect Tint Powder

What is Physical Sunscreen?

Physical sunscreen is a type of sunscreen that works by creating a physical barrier on the surface of the skin to reflect and scatter the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. This type of sunscreen contains active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are natural minerals that form a protective layer on the skin.

Physical sunscreen is often recommended for people with sensitive skin, as it is less likely to cause irritation compared to chemical sunscreen. It’s also effective immediately upon application, providing instant protection against the sun’s rays. It’s important to note that regardless of the type of sunscreen you use, wearing sunscreen daily is crucial to protecting your skin from UV damage and reducing the risk of skin cancer.

Belladerm Offerings

• Revision Skincare Intellishade Original
• Revision Intellishade TruPhysical
• Colorescience All Calm

Which Sunscreen Should I Use?

At Belladerm MedSpa, we understand that choosing between physical and chemical sunscreen can be overwhelming. The truth is that both types of sunscreen can be effective in protecting your skin from UV damage, and the best choice ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to skin irritation, a physical sunscreen may be a better option for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a lightweight, easy-to-apply option, chemical sunscreen may be a better fit.

Regardless of which type of sunscreen you choose, the most important thing is that you wear it every day to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, our skincare specialists are here to help you make the best choice for your skin with a complimentary consultation.

Don’t forget that May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, so make sure to spread the word! This month you can get 15% off any Belladerm MedSpa sunscreen to help keep your skin safe and healthy.

Though it might not feel like it, summer IS coming sooner than we think and you’ll be prepared for it when you know a variety of ways to protect your skin from the hot summer sun. We just spent some time focusing on skin cancer prevention and this blog goes hand in hand with that topic. We’re going to look at ways you can protect yourself and your family since most skin cancer is caused by excessive and unprotected exposure to UV radiation.

1. Sun protection isn’t just for your skin. Don’t forget your lips! Use a lip balm with a sunscreen of at least SPF15. Pick up your complimentary lip balm at Belladerm when you stop in to see us.
2. Watch the clock. Sun exposure is most damaging between 10:00 AM-2:00 PM so do your best to limit sun exposure between those hours.  Use the shadow rule: if your shadow is shorter than you, the sun’s rays are at their strongest, and you should find some shade if you want to be outdoors. Check the forecast so you can quickly learn what the UV index is and stay informed about how harsh the rays will be on any given day. If it creeps up towards 10, use extra caution or stay indoors.
3. When you can, protect your skin with a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and a hat. Keep in mind that dark clothing with tightly woven fabric blocks more sun than white or loosely woven fabrics. You can also find clothing made with special sun-protective materials.
4. The delicate skin around your eyes is easily affected by the sun’s powerful rays. Always wear sunglasses with 99% to 100% UV absorption to provide optimal protection for the eyes and the surrounding skin.
5. Be aware of how medications affect your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Examples of some that make you more sensitive: specific types of antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, antifungals, blood pressure medications, and chemotherapies.
6. Be beach smart. Water and sand will all intensify the rays hitting your skin and water will wash away your protection. Reapply your sunscreen regularly but even more so when you’re enjoying a beach day!
7. Cloudy days are ALSO sunscreen days. You just won’t feel the heat of the sun as much on those days but please don’t skip your sunscreen. You should choose a broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB radiation and has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
8. Those of you with little ones will also need to know the importance of protection from early on.  Getting a bad sunburn in childhood increases a person’s risk of developing skin cancer as an adult.
9. Choose wisely. Sunscreen creams are better for dry skin, and gels are better for the scalp or hairy areas. Sunscreen sprays are found everywhere are make application fast and easy, but when possible, avoid using them.  The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is not sure that enough sunscreen makes it onto the skin and is concerned that the spray may be inhaled into the lungs.
10. We are passionate about protecting your skin. Stop in for our current sunscreen special. 10% off all sunscreen products through the end of May including Obaji Sunshield SPF50, Revision Intellishade SPF45, SkinMedica Daily Physical Defense SPF30 and Environmental Defense SPF50.

You may already have heard many of these before but it never hurts to get a refresher before the hot weather arrives. Never underestimate the importance of the protecting your skin from the sultry summer sun!
source: http://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/prevention-and-healthy-living/protecting-your-skin-sun.