Face and body: different sun protection needs
There skin of face East more fine, more fragile And more exposed that that of body. She sudden
daily external aggressions, such as pollution and temperature variations, in addition to UV rays. It is also more prone to irritation and skin problems such as blemishes and dryness. Facial sunscreens are specially formulated to meet these needs. They are often enriched with moisturizing, antioxidant, and sometimes mattifying active ingredients to suit combination to oily skin. They also have a lighter texture and are designed not to clog pores, thanks to non-comedogenic ingredients. Some
contain Also of the assets antioxidants For combat THE radicals free And prevent skin aging .
Body sunscreens, on the other hand, generally have a more fluid or thicker texture, depending on their formulation, and cover a larger surface area. They may contain more powerful filters and offer excellent protection, but they are not always suitable for sensitive facial skin.
Mineral filters vs. chemical filters: what’s the difference?
There are two main types of sunscreens: mineral filters and chemical filters .
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Mineral (or physical) filters use ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to create a barrier that reflects UV rays. They are often recommended for sensitive skin because they are less irritating and offer immediate protection upon application. However, their texture can be thicker and leave a slight white cast on the skin.
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Chemical filters , on the other hand, absorb UV rays and convert them into heat before releasing them. They are lighter on the skin and offer better transparency, making them pleasant to apply. However, some formulations may contain controversial or irritating ingredients for reactive skin.
The importance of SPF and UVA/UVB protection
The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) indicates the level of protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. For optimal protection, it is recommended to use an SPF of 30 to 50 , depending on the intensity of exposure.
However, UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin, are also responsible for skin aging and long-term damage. Good sunscreen should therefore have a broad spectrum to cover both UVA and UVB rays.
How to apply sunscreen correctly?
For optimal efficiency:
✔ Apply sunscreen generously 20 minutes before exposure.
✔ Reapply every 2 hours , and after swimming or heavy perspiration.
✔ Don’t forget sensitive areas: ears, neck, hands and décolleté.
✔ Use additional protection , such as a hat and sunglasses.
Blue light: a new enemy for the skin
In addition to UV rays, another type of light can accelerate skin aging: blue light emitted by computer, phone, and television screens. This light penetrates even deeper than UVA rays and generates oxidative stress , promoting the appearance of wrinkles, pigment spots, and a loss of skin elasticity.
Some sunscreens now incorporate blue light filters to minimize these effects. Ingredients like iron oxide , antioxidants (vitamin C, niacinamide), and plant extracts help protect the skin from this type of radiation and prevent hyperpigmentation.
Incorporate sun protection into your daily routine
Even outside of summer, skin is exposed to UV rays year-round. It's therefore advisable to apply sunscreen every morning, especially on the face, to prevent skin aging and pigmentation spots. Opting for a tinted sunscreen or a BB cream with SPF can be a practical solution for combining care and protection.
Choosing the right sunscreen requires understanding your skin's specific needs and the different formulations available. Proper daily protection helps preserve skin's youthfulness and health over the long term.