The Ingredient Every Sunscreen Should Have

Written by: Meg Fruth, APRN-CNP

August 2022

It’s no secret that mineral based sunscreen is having a resurgence lately, and this is for a number of reasons. First, recent studies have revealed that chemical based sunscreens containing chemicals such as oxybenzone are systemically absorbed (Sanders et al). While further research is needed to determine the risks of this, it certainly is something that is on the radar of much of the medical community. Second, chemical based sunscreens have shown to be harmful to the environment. These factors aside, it is no secret good broad spectrum SPF protects against squamous cell carcinomas and harmful UVA rays. Protecting the skin from the sun will also prevent hyperpigmentation / melasma, photo-aging, collagen breakdown and all sorts of other harmful changes to the skin.

In walks our good friend ZINC. Zinc previously had a bad reputation for being outdated and causing a chalky appearance to the skin. We’re here to say that modern day mineral based sunscreens are anything but antiquated - and should be here to stay! Our favorite brands leave NO chalky residue and often lay nicely almost like a makeup primer. Vi-Derm beauty’s mineral based SPF 50 protects against both UVA (aging rays) and UVB (burning rays) and is a vital part of a daily skincare routine. When you go to choose a foundation or CC cream, look for a mineral based option with zinc oxide as a key ingredient.

UVA UVB and UVC Rays on Skin

Figure 1: Schematic representation of the electromagnetic spectrum of light, emphasizing ultraviolet radiation (UVR) frequencies and their effect on human skin. Generally, the shorter the wavelength of radiation, the greater the potential for biological damage. Note: UVA = ultraviolet A, UVB = ultraviolet B, UVC = ultraviolet C. Sunscreen filters are active against UVA1, UVA2 and UVB radiation. Source: Sanders et al

We recommend wearing a daily SPF on your face, neck and chest. If you have daily sun exposure, also applying to your arms, hands and other body areas is important. There have been numerous recent studies about the onset and duration of SPF once applied and the recommendations have shifted. You can now count on your SPF to be active for up to 8 hours under most circumstances with a single application! Of course, for active sweating, abrasion from sand or water exposure, you may want to apply more frequently. Further, we recommend cream based sunscreens for a more even application and to avoid inhalation of chemicals.

If you’re not sure which SPF to choose - or where to begin your skincare regimen - book an appointment with one of the talented MOBO providers in your region for a skincare consultation. Here you’ll go over your unique skin concerns and leave with an individualized treatment plan that addresses precisely what your skin needs, often using a combination of prescription and professional grade solutions.

Sources:

Sander M, Sander M, Burbidge T, Beecker J. The efficacy and safety of sunscreen use for the prevention of skin cancer. CMAJ. 2020 Dec 14;192(50):E1802-E1808. doi: 10.1503/cmaj.201085. PMID: 33318091; PMCID: PMC7759112.