Your favorite sunscreen that you use every day for sun safety might have a dark secret that you have been overlooking for years. Many people assume sunscreen is automatically safe just because it’s meant to protect your skin, but that’s not always true. Many formulas still use harmful chemicals that might damage your skin barrier in the long run, weakening your skin barrier, with you not even noticing the difference. Wondering what those chemicals are that are considered bad but still used? The answer is oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have come under the radar for their negative impact, as reported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) among many other esteemed publications. There are also commonly known irritants like parabens, which make normal users look for sunscreens recommended by dermatologists who are certified paraben-free and safe for daily use. Even though these chemicals are banned in many places, they are still allowed to be used in Indian sunscreens, which is why you need to take your safety into your hands.
Let’s explore the details of each chemical you should avoid and why, along with how to check if your sunscreen is safe. These ingredients, if used regularly, can lead to irreversible damage, which is why you need to act fast. We've researched and identified the best sunscreens for daily use from brands like Mamaearth, The Derma Co, Aqualogica, Dr. Sheth's, and Re'equil, among others.
Here are some safe sunscreen options with ingredients that are carefully picked out to target various needs.
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How To Check For Harmful Ingredients In Your Sunscreen?
This step is not something that would require expertise, as you only have to look at the back of your sunscreen in most cases. If there is a mention of oxybenzone (BP-3) and octinoxate (OMC) in the ingredients, our advice would be to stop using them at once, no matter the percentage used. Some studies show that some amount of these can be safe, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Just a little bit of care can go a long way when you are choosing the best-suited sunscreen for all skin types.
What Ingredients Are Considered Safe For Use?
According to a study published by the FDA, these two chemicals are considered safe for use.
- Zinc Oxide (ZnO): Other than protection from UV rays, zinc oxide sunscreens are also linked with healing wounds, which helps in acne scars and other scars.
- Titanium Dioxide (TiO2): It is a natural ingredient that is often found in whitening sunscreens and known for its protection from UVB rays.
Organic Ingredients That Are Appreciated In Sunscreen
The inclusion of fruit extracts is always a safer alternative to inorganic chemicals, which makes formulas with strawberries, pomegranates, and watermelon more appealing for those looking for maximum sunscreen benefits. That’s also why many prefer going with a Vitamin C sunscreen, which is a known secret for glowing skin. Other than that, soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, green tea, and others, often included in sunscreens for oily skin.
Which Sunscreen Is Best For Different Skin Types?
It is better to go with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 and more for safe and effective sun protection. That being said, the choice between the two types of sunscreen is also a significant decision. Go through which one would be better for your skin.
Mineral Sunscreen (Physical Sunscreen): They are one of the most common and popular sunscreen types and make use of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to create a protective layer on the skin for UVA and UVB protection. Mineral sunblocks are some of the best sun cream for men and women available in the market and offer the perfect balance of organic and reef-safe inorganic ingredients for safe use. Generally better as an SPF for sensitive skin, along with acne-prone skin, due to its gentle, less irritating formula.
Chemical Sunscreen: These make use of safe chemicals that are approved by FDA, such as avobenzone, which are known for their ability to convert the UV rays to normal heat. They are mostly lightweight and easy to blend without leaving a white cast for a natural glow. Make sure to do a patch test on the neck, as it contains many chemicals.
Important Considerations when Choosing a Safe Sunscreen:
- Avoid Harmful Ingredients: Stay away from sunscreens containing ingredients like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens.
- Broad-Spectrum Protection: Look for “broad-spectrum” on the label to ensure protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
- SPF 50 or Higher: Choose an SPF of at least 50 for everyday use, and consider a higher SPF for higher protection from sun exposure.
- Water Resistance: If you plan on sweating or swimming, choose a waterproof sunscreen and reapply frequently to achieve an all-day glam and glamour.
- Fragrance-Free and Non-Comedogenic: It’s advised to choose a formula without any fragrance and that is non-comedogenic, especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin.
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