Stay Safe and Protected from the Sun’s Rays
Don’t disregard sunscreen as an unimpressive item in your skincare routine; it’s truly the most essential anti-aging product you can purchase! Sun exposure, also known as photo-aging, is responsible for approximately 80 to 90 percent of visible signs of aging. Luckily, this issue is easily avoidable with a daily SPF application.
Applying sunscreen every day is an excellent way to protect your skin from the damaging effects of UV light, including wrinkling and sagging caused by collagen depletion, rough texture due to loss of elasticity, dark spots and discoloration, premature aging and fine lines.
With the variety of sunscreen options available, how can you choose one that works perfectly with your skin type and prevents breakouts too? Here’s a skincare tip – zinc oxide sunscreen is an outstanding choice! Using it will ensure that you maintain great SPF habits in addition to having healthy-looking skin. So before delving into all sorts of advice about sunscreens, consider investing in this tried-and-tested option first.
Zinc oxide is one of the most reliable, tolerable sunscreen ingredients for any skin type or tone. Moreover, it has many advantages that make it stand out in protecting your skin from UVA and UVB rays – its photostability and water resistance render zinc oxide a wise choice even when you’re spending time outdoors.
What is Zinc Oxide?
For centuries, zinc oxide has been used in many skincare products. However, more recently it is found in topical treatments for those with sensitive skin and babies – think calamine cream and diaper ointment. This is due to its calming anti-inflammatory qualities that make it an ideal ingredient for these types of products.
Zinc oxide is a cherished, thoroughly studied component found in mineral or physical sunscreens. Unlike chemical sunscreens that penetrate the skin’s surface and require time to become effective, zinc oxide remains on top of your skin and promptly defends you from any damage caused by UV rays.
Physical or mineral sunscreen is an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin because it sits on the surface of your skin, repelling UV rays like a mirror. The FDA has only approved two ingredients for this type of sunscreen – titanium dioxide and zinc oxide – so you know that these are safe to use. With less potential for irritation than other types of sunscreens, physical SPF provides superior protection from harsh ultraviolet rays without causing discomfort.
Zinc oxide’s sun protection capabilities are truly remarkable. It is capable of providing broad-spectrum UVA and UVB coverage, making it one of the most comprehensive sunscreen ingredients available today. We highly recommend Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50 as a daily mineral sunscreen that offers maximum safeguarding against both UVA and UVB rays while also being gentle to fragile coral reefs.
Zinc oxide is historically known for its opaque white texture that can potentially cause a pale, ashy look. However, thanks to advances in technology and micronized particles of zinc oxide, you now get the same powerful protection with an ultra sheer tint that blends seamlessly into your skin. Juice Beauty STEM CELLULAR CC Cream and UNSUN Mineral Tinted Sunscreen are two great examples of this kind of product – their natural blend of zinc oxide sun protection plus flexible tints provide everything you need for optimal application and a flawless finish without compromising on coverage or quality.
Who Can Use It?
Literally everyone! With its anti-inflammatory properties, zinc oxide sunscreen is a perfect choice for those who have sensitive skin and more severe conditions like eczema or rosacea. For an everyday pure mineral SPF that’s suitable for both dry and sensitive skin, try 100% Pure Green Tea SPF 30; the ingredients are reef safe minerals plus green tea and aloe to provide extra moisture.
Zinc oxide sits on the surface as a physical sun blocker, not clogging pores or causing congestion – ideal for skin prone to acne. UNSUN Mineral Tinted Sunscreen is an excellent option if you have oily or combination skin, containing zinc oxide and powerful antioxidants which hydrate your complexion without triggering blemishes.
For those with melasma or hyperpigmentation, physical sunscreens featuring zinc oxide provide unparalleled protection from the sun’s heat and light. Unlike chemical counterparts which absorb UV rays to create heat before dispersing it out of the skin, these blockers prevent UV penetration without generating any warmth for a much gentler effect on pigmentary concerns. With no extra inflammation or redness in sight.
When Should I Use It?
Repeat after us: sun protection is not just for the beach! You are exposed to the sun’s rays daily, even when you don’t go outside or embrace winter weather. Although some believe that these rays aren’t as potent during colder months, this isn’t true; they can still lead to skin damage and premature aging. To protect yourself from these consequences, apply an appropriate zinc oxide sunscreen formulation every day on your face and any other exposed areas (think neckline, hands).
