Ever since I've opened my business, I have really been putting myself out there, talking to other people, networking, and building more genuine relationships within my community.
This week I went on a walk with someone I don't know very well, and as we were walking the topic of sunscreen came up, and she mentioned to me that she doesn't wear sunscreen.
And I really approached this conversation from a place of curiosity and I asked her, "Why is that? Tell me more."
And she mentioned to me that she doesn't wear sunscreen because she believes its 'bad', toxic, and full of chemicals.
And honestly? Her response was valid. Our skin is our largest organ and what we put on it matters.
But I think the word "chemical" can sound a little scary, just like chemical sunscreen and chemical peels. But water and oxygen are chemicals, and just because something is a chemical, doesn't necessarily mean that it is harmful.
So let's talk about the two different types of sunscreens and why I prefer physical/mineral sunscreen.
Physical/mineral sunscreen:
- This sits on top of the skin and reflects the UV rays, acting like a protective shield. This makes it great for sensitive skin, reactive skin, acne-prone, post treatment skin, and can be used during pregnancy.
- The two ingredients you may see are titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, and are naturally derived minerals from the earth without unnecessary chemicals.
Chemical sunscreen:
- This absorbs into the skin instead of sitting on top of the skin, and it turns the UV light into heat before it can damage the skin, making it not ideal for inflamed, pigmented skin, compromised skin, or skin post treatment.
- This also requires time to activate after it is applied and shouldn't be used during pregnancy.
- The ingredients you may see are avobenzone, oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, and homosalate.
Moral of the story is I don't want you to fear sunscreen.
Sunscreen is one of the most powerful tools in protecting your skin from the sun, prevents premature aging, and it helps reduce the risk of skin cancer.
As an aesthetician, I personally prefer physical/mineral sunscreen over chemical, especially for sensitive, acne-prone, pigmented, post treatment skin, or pregnant clients. However, the best one sunscreen is the one you will wear every single day.
And if healthy skin is your goal (especially if you are investing in corrective treatments), SPF is not optional.
But that doesn't mean you shouldn't ask questions, learn about your options, and make an informed decision about what works best for you and your lifestyle.
And I think the most important thing is approaching these conversations with curiosity, continued learning, and making informed, empowered decisions.
Until next time,
Stay Barefaced
Providing customized facial treatments designed to deeply cleanse, clarify, decongest pores, reduce inflammation, and support healthier, more radiant looking skin throughout Southborough, MA community, including neighbors in Town Center, Southville, Cordaville, Fayville, Parkerville, Chestnut Meadow, and Carlsbrooke.