Three Types of Sunscreen Selection Guide

How to Choose Sunscreen

Ultraviolet rays are one of the biggest external factors in skin aging,

and continuous exposure can increase hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity,

and in severe cases, even the risk of skin cancer.

Choosing sunscreen well and using it correctly

can greatly help maintain skin health.

I hope this guide to choosing the right sunscreen will help you find

sun care that suits your skin!

Types of Sunscreen

Mineral / Chemical / Hybrid Sunscreen

Sunscreen can broadly be considered in two categories: mineral sunscreen and chemical sunscreen,

but there is also hybrid sunscreen that combines the advantages of both.

Let’s take a look at the advantages of each type!

1. Mineral sunscreen (physical sunscreen)

Mineral sunscreen is mainly made with ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide,

and it works by reflecting ultraviolet rays off the skin.

It may be suitable for sensitive skin because it is less irritating,

and one advantage is that sun protection takes effect immediately.

However, it may leave a white cast, and it also has the drawback of being

easily washed off by sweat or water.

2. Chemical sunscreen

The main ingredients in chemical sunscreen are oxybenzone and avobenzone.

It works by absorbing ultraviolet rays and converting them into heat energy.

It has the advantages of producing little to no white cast and spreading smoothly with a light feel, but

there may be a chance of irritation for sensitive skin,

so caution is needed.

Also, after applying it, you need to wait about 15 to 20 minutes for absorption,

so it is recommended to apply it with enough time before going out.

3. Hybrid sunscreen (physical + chemical blend)

Usually sunscreen is divided into chemical and mineral types,

but there is also hybrid sunscreen that combines the ingredients of both to make use of their advantages

and reduce their drawbacks.

For example, it can help reduce white cast and irritation.

In the case of hybrid sunscreen, it may not suit every skin type,

so it is recommended to use it while considering your individual skin condition.

What do SPF and PA ratings mean?

1. SPF (Sun Protection Factor)

SPF refers to the UVB protection index. For example,

SPF 50 means you can withstand ultraviolet rays about 50 times longer

than without protection.

The higher the number, the stronger the protection, but the duration

can vary depending on how it is used.

2. PA (Protection Grade of UVA)

This is an indicator of the level of UVA protection.

The more “+” signs there are, the stronger the protection.

When you look at sunscreen products, there is a number of “+” signs.

PA+ means slight UVA protection,

PA++ means moderate, PA+++ means high, and PA++++ means

very high.

How to choose sunscreen

For everyday life, SPF 30 / PA++ or higher is recommended,

and for outdoor activities, exercise, or long periods outside, SPF 50 /

PA+++ or higher is recommended.

Reapplying at regular intervals is also helpful.

If you have sensitive skin or acne-prone skin, you can start by considering mineral sunscreen.

Tips for choosing according to skin type and situation

If your skin is easily irritated or sensitive, you can usually consider using mineral sunscreen products.

For oily/acne-prone skin, a chemical sunscreen labeled non-comedogenic and oil-free may be suitable.

For dry skin, you can consider a sunscreen that also contains moisturizing ingredients.

Rather than applying sunscreen only once, reapplying every 2 to 3 hours helps maintain protection.

Sunscreen is not simply for whitening or preventing blemishes;

it is a basic habit for preventing skin aging.

You can check mineral and chemical sunscreens, as well as SPF and PA ratings,

and use them according to your skin type and situation.

In basic skincare, the use of sunscreen is essentially recommended.

Thank you^^

#Sunscreen #SunscreenSelectionGuide