Summer
is an exciting season of the year because it’s all about colorful outfits, bright
nails, and of course, lots of outdoor activities. While it’s fun to enjoy the
sunshine, I’m sure that many of you, like me, are concerned about the damages UV
rays cause on our skin. So, today I’m going to give you some information on UV
rays and tips for choosing the right sunscreens. Let’s get summer-ready!
Types of UV Rays
You may have already heard about UVA and UVB, but do you know UVA can
be further divided into UVA-1 and UVA-2? And what are the actual damages of UV
rays on our skin? Here’s an overview.
UVA-1: long UV rays (340–400 nm); reach
the dermis, causing dark pigments, skin ageing and wrinkles
UVA-2: shorter UVA rays (320–340 nm);
reach the epidermis, causing skin reddening, sunburn and is the main cause of skin
cancer
UVB: medium-wave UV rays (280–320
nm); reach the epidermis, causing skin reddening, sunburn and is the main cause
of skin cancer
Broad Spectrum Protection is the Key
As you can see above, UVA-1 penetrates deep into our dermis and causes dark
pigments which can result in unsightly freckles, but its prevalence is often
ignored. How to choose an appropriate sunscreen? The number one tip is to pick a
broad spectrum protection sunscreen, one that defenses our skin against both
UVA and UVB, including UVA-1. There are two types of sunscreens: mineral-based
and chemical. Below is a comparison of each type and some common ingredients
you may like to take note of.
1. Mineral-based sunscreens:
How it works: contain physical blockers that form a film on
the face to deflect UV rays
Pros: mild on the skin, does not
cause skin allergy easily
Cons: leaves a white cast and feels greasy on skin
Common ingredients: Zinc Oxide (blocks UVA-1, UVA-2 & UVB), Titanium
Dioxide (blocks UVB & UVA-2)
2. Chemical sunscreens:
How it works: contain chemical absorbers that are first absorbed by
the skin, then interact with UV rays chemically, converting them into non-harmful
substances for skin
Pros: feels light and non-greasy on
the skin
Cons: may cause skin allergy easily
Common ingredients: Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (blocks UVB), Avobenzone (blocks
UVA-1 & UVA-2), Mexoryl SX, XL (covers UVA-1, UVA-2 & partial UVB), Diethylamino
Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (a.k.a. Uvinul® A Plus; covers all UVA rays), Tinosorb
M & Tinosorb S (blocks UVA-1, UVA-2 & UVB)
Here’re Our Picks:
Since mineral-based and chemical sunscreens each have their own disadvantages, most
sunscreens on the market are a mixture of both – getting the best of both
worlds. Here are my recommendations for some of the best and most effective
sunscreens.
Clinique Even Better Dark Spot Defense
SPF45 / PA++++ (All Skin Types)
A pure mineral-based sunscreen formulated with Zinc Oxide and Titanium
Oxide to protect against UVA-1, UVA-2 and UVB. Featuring patented Invisible
Screen™ technology that leaves no white traces on your face. The texture? Melts
instantly in your skin, giving you an even and radiant complexion.
Kanebo ALLIE EX UV Protector Gel 4-Piece Set
ALLIE EX UV Protector Gel (Mineral Moist) N SPF50+ / PA++++ is a mixed mineral and chemical sunscreen with Zinc Oxide, photostable Uvinul® A Plus and Octocrylene, effectively blocking all UVAs and UVB. The watery texture glides on your skin smoothly. Contains Hyaluronic Acid, Collagen and Royal Jelly.
ALLIE EX UV Protector (Whitening) N SPF50+ / PA++++ is also a mixed sunscreen with mineral Zinc Oxide and chemical Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, protecting skin from all UVAs and UVB. The oil-controlling complex gives a non-sticky feeling. Vitamins C and E are added for skin-whitening effect.
