How to choose sunscreen when buying it for the first time

Does everyone have this problem? There are thousands of good sunscreens, why is it so difficult to find one that suits me? How should we choose sunscreen? How to choose sunscreen when buying it for the first time?

Select by texture

Sunscreen has two textures: viscous and thin. Both have comprehensive sun protection effects. They are targeted at different skin types. The difference between the two lies in their water content, and can be better absorbed by skin in different conditions.

1.1 Paste

Sunscreen with a viscous texture tends to be a paste with a water content of about 60%, so it is very moisturizing. However, due to its relatively large molecular structure, it is absorbed by the skin relatively slowly, but there will be no feeling of dryness afterwards, so it is suitable for dry skin. If it is a relatively dry season such as autumn and winter, it is also suitable to use a thick sunscreen. And because it is not very fluid, it is more convenient to use on smaller areas such as the face.

1.2 Liquid

Liquid sunscreen is called sunscreen lotion. It has strong fluidity and contains more than 70% water. Its molecular structure is smaller than that of sunscreen, so it is more easily absorbed by the skin. However, the interval between reapplications is much shorter, requiring reapplication every 2 hours. It is suitable for oily or combination skin. Liquid sunscreen has a light texture, so it is very suitable for use in spring and autumn. If you need to apply it to a large area of ​​the body, this type of sunscreen with stronger fluidity is also suitable.

Select by SPF

The sun protection value refers to the SPF and PA written on the sunscreen bottle. This is an important parameter for us to choose sunscreen. It is related to protecting against UVA and UVB, because these two types of ultraviolet rays are the most harmful to our skin.

UVA: UVA is long-wave, has strong penetrating power, and is everywhere, even in places where the sun cannot be seen. It can penetrate the surface of the skin, penetrate deep into the tissues below the dermis, destroy the synthesis of collagen, and cause skin aging.

UVB: UVB is a medium wave that penetrates the epidermis and activates melanin. It is the culprit for our darkening. It can also cause sunburn and cause redness and heat.

In fact, the lethality of UVA is much higher than that of UVB, because it exists all year round, has strong penetrating power, can reach deeper layers of the skin, and is easily overlooked, so sun protection is needed all year round.

2.1 Sun Protection Index SPF

The SPF value on the sunscreen bottle indicates the time it can effectively block ultraviolet UVB. The more common ones are SPF15, SPF30, and SPF50. Generally speaking, the higher the value, the longer the protection against UVB.

2.2 Sun Protection Index PA

There is also a value called PA, which indicates the strength of effectively isolating ultraviolet UVA. Most sunscreens can be divided into: PA+ (effective, protecting against 2-4 times UVA), PA++ (quite effective, 4-8 times), and PA+++ (very effective, more than 8 times).

Tips: SPF value prevents tanning, PA value prevents photoaging. You should choose a sunscreen with both SPF and PA. Many people think that the higher the SPF value, the better, and they especially love SPF50. In fact, you still have to choose the appropriate sunscreen according to your actual needs, otherwise it will easily cause a burden on your skin. If you are only doing indoor activities, just choose SPF20 or below. For short-term outdoor activities, SPF30 sunscreen products are suitable. If you are doing long-term outdoor activities or need to be exposed to the sun, you need to choose SPF50. And if you will participate in water sports, you should also choose sunscreen products with waterproof and sweat-proof functions.

Select by attribute

In addition to the SPF, the sun protection properties of sunscreen are also critical. There are generally three types of sun protection: physical sun protection, chemical sun protection, and a combination of physical and chemical. Each one is different and suitable for different people.

3.1 Physical sunscreen

The main ingredients are titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which mainly rely on reflection or scattering to block ultraviolet rays to achieve the purpose of sun protection. Physical sunscreen is relatively mild and has good stability. It can reflect ultraviolet rays for a long time and usually stays on the skin surface without chemical reaction. Physical sunscreen products have mild ingredients and are less irritating to the skin, making them suitable for sensitive skin. However, they will appear a bit white when applied, and their texture is generally thicker and not easy to spread.

3.2 Chemical sunscreen

It achieves sun protection by absorbing ultraviolet rays and producing chemical reactions. Its molecules have a tight structure, forming a UV-swallowing barrier on the skin surface, which then absorbs ultraviolet rays. This process occurs inside the skin and is eliminated through metabolism by the human body. Chemical sunscreen has a refreshing and light texture that will not put too much burden on the skin and is suitable for oily skin. However, it is not very stable and needs to be reapplied frequently to maintain the sun protection effect.

3.3 Physical and chemical combination

Physical and chemical sunscreen combines these two types of sunscreen. Many sunscreens on the market now are physical and chemical sunscreens with mild ingredients and a good feel. They are suitable for all skin types, but for those with sensitive skin, it is better to use physical sunscreen.