Spending more time outdoors this summer? We all know the importance of SPF and sunscreen, but just what goes into your sunscreen is just as, if not more important. We’ve curated a list of things you should look out for when purchasing your next sunscreen:
Active Ingredients
Avobenzone: This is a common ingredient found in most chemical sunscreens, i.e. sunscreens that use minerals or other ingredients to absorb the sun’s harmful UV rays once it penetrates the skin. Avobenzone is one such ingredient that is usually found in most sunscreens, due to its ability to absorb a wide range of UV rays and convert them into energy that is less harmful to the skin.
Titanium Dioxide: This active ingredient creates a physical barrier on one’s skin, protecting against UV rays. This is a popular UV filtering ingredient, as it is not absorbed into the skin and does not degrade in the presence of sunlight. It is also non-comedogenic, meaning that it doesn’t clog pores!
Zinc Oxide: Like titanium dioxide, zinc oxide provides a physical block against UV rays when applied to the skin. It is also non-comedogenic, and photostable in the presence of sunlight.
Our TiZ02 & TiZ03 mineral sunscreens contain both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide as active ingredients for an all-rounded protection against the sun. They’re free from preservatives, oils, and fragrances too!
Broad Spectrum Coverage
Ensure that your sunblock has protection not just against UVB rays, but also against UVA rays! UVA rays tend to penetrate deep into the skin, causing not only premature aging, but also fine lines and wrinkles. They are also responsible for a number of skin cancers.
UVB rays on the other hand, tend to burn the superficial layers of the skin, causing unwanted sunburns and pigmentation.
PA Rating
Always see the sign “PA+++” but don’t quite understand what that means? This is actually the Japanese rating system of UVA protection, and ranges from “PA+” to “PA+++”.
The more the pluses, the higher the protection! But note though, this rating only measures protection against UVA rays – whatever sunscreen you choose, you’ll still need a broad-spectrum one that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
SPF
In a nutshell, SPF measures the level of protection you get against UVB rays. An SPF 15 sunscreen can block out 93% of UVB rays, an SPF 30 sunscreen can block out almost 97% UVB rays, while an SPF 50 sunscreen can block an estimated 98% of UVB rays.
Generally, it’s good to have a sunscreen that has at least SPF 30.
Water-Resistance
If you’re going swimming, it’s important that you apply a water-resistant sunblock to ensure you’re still protected in the water. While no sunscreen is 100% waterproof – new regulations have classified sunblocks as either 40-minute or 80-minute water-resistant sunscreens – it’s important to apply a (preferably) 80-minute water-resistant sunscreen, like our TiZ03 mineral sunscreen, 15-20 minutes before sun exposure, and every 2 hours after.
How do I apply sunblock?
Easier said than done – Most people tend to get this wrong! When applying sunblock, apply about 20g – 30g for the entire body. For your face, you’ll need an amount around the size of a 50-cent coin. Don’t forget to reapply every 2-3 hours!
For more information about our sunscreens, call us at +65 6738 4700, email us at enquire@lsaestheticclinic.com, or visit us at Wisma Atria, Orchard Road.
We offer honest advice, quality skincare, and affordable prices.