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Choosing the right sunscreen for your skin type

Choosing the right sunscreen for your skin type

Sun-damaged skin is a fact of life, especially when living in this beautiful sunburnt country of ours. Prevention is definitely better than cure when it comes to your skin and the sun, and that’s where sunscreen comes in.

There is no such thing as a ‘safe tan’. A tan is a sign of DNA damage. It is the result of a chemical reaction in your body as it tries to protect itself from UV light. The majority of sun damage occurs in our first 20 years. It’s not too late to get sun smart and encourage the younger generations to protect their skin from an early age.

The most powerful anti-aging product you can use on your skin every day is sunscreen!

It can be tempting to pick up whichever sunscreen catches your eye at the chemist or grocery store as you make a pit stop on your way to the beach. And while any sunscreen is better than no sunscreen at all, the best way to protect your skin is to choose a sunscreen that suits your skin’s specific needs.

What to look for when shopping for sunscreen

Broad-spectrum

A broad-spectrum sunscreen will protect your skin against UVB and UVA rays. UVB rays cause redness and sunburn on the skin, as well as skin cancer. UVA rays can also cause cancer and photoaging or the early aging of the skin.

SPF 30 or higher

Did you know that sunscreen loses some of its potency once applied? The SPF number (or the Sun Protection Factor) on sunscreen indicates how long the sun’s UV radiation would take to redden skin (if used as directed), versus the amount of time without sunscreen, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. An SPF 30, for example, allows around 3% of UVB rays to hit your skin.

Anything lower than SPF 30 will provide insufficient coverage. If you’re going to be outside for an extended time, we recommend using SPF 50 or higher. Remember to apply your sunscreen 30 minutes before venturing out.

Water-resistant

A water-resistant sunscreen maintains its protection even when you’re swimming or sweating. Some sunscreens are extra resistant to water, so they last even longer. It’s essential to reapply these sunscreens according to the label.

Mineral vs. chemical

Mineral or physical, sunscreen is made of natural ingredients, typically zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These sunscreens act as a physical barrier between your skin and the sun to reflect its UV rays away from the skin.

Chemical sunscreens absorb into your skin and then reflect UV light. Mineral sunscreen is more resistant and lasts longer on the skin, so it is recommended for those who play outdoor sports or spend a lot of time in the sun.

The best sunscreens for different skin types

Dry Skin

Look for sunscreens that have hydrating ingredients, such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid and ceramides.

We recommend:

Mesoprotech nourishing anti-aging oil SPF 50

Dry oil anti-aging formulation offering very high factor sun protection SPF 50+ for dry and mature skins. It provides elasticity and nutrition while strengthening the barrier function. Protects and increases the presence of high-quality collagen in the skin. Water-resistant.

Josie Maran Argan Daily Moisturiser SPF 47

This SPF moisturizer provides skin nourishment and UV protection in one product. Ingredients include titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, argan oil, jojoba oil, and green tea leaf extract.

Oily Skin

People with oilier skin may prefer a chemical sunscreen over a mineral/physical sunscreen (made with zinc oxide), as chemical sunscreen tends to be drier than mineral sunscreens. However, there are still many mineral sunscreen options available.

We recommend:

Mesoprotech mineral matt anti-aging fluid SPF 50

The light anti-aging formula offers very high factor sunscreen protection SPF 50+ for sensitive, combination and oily skins that provides a powdered finish on the skin and absorbs excess oiliness and shine.

LA ROCHE-POSAY Anthelios XL Anti-Shine Dry Touch SPF 50

Ideal for oily, acne-prone skin types. Specifically designed for sensitive skin prone to sun intolerance. This light mattifying cream is non-greasy and non-comedogenic, offering SPF 50+ protection with an invisible finish.

Sensitive Skin

Mineral sunscreens with titanium dioxide or zinc as the active ingredients are generally less irritating to the skin. And they can significantly benefit patients with rosacea, eczema or allergies to fragrances or preservatives. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and vitamin C can also be beneficial.

We recommend:

Mesoprotech light water anti-aging veil SPF 50

Ultra-light anti-aging emulsion offering very high factor sunscreen action SPF 50. A fresh, immediate absorption texture that forms an invisible protective film on the skin. Protects and increases the presence of high-quality collagen in the skin. Water-resistant.

Avène Sunscreen Emulsion Face SPF 50

Provides SPF50+ UVA and UVB protection for sensitive skin. This gentle facial sun cream is rich in Avene Thermal Spring Water, which helps to maintain hydration within the skin while keeping it protected.

Acne-Prone Skin

Acne-prone skin can benefit from lighter formulations and products that are specifically non-comedogenic (not tending to clog pores). Thicker products can cause clogging and flare-ups.

Mesoprotech mineral matt anti-aging fluid

This light anti-aging formula offers very high factor sunscreen protection SPF 50+ for sensitive, combination and oily skins. Provides a powdered finish on the skin and absorbs excess oiliness and shine.

LA ROCHE-POSAY Anthelios XL Anti-Shine Dry Touch SPF 50

Ideal for oily, acne-prone skin types. Specifically designed for sensitive skin prone to sun intolerance. This light mattifying cream is non-greasy and non-comedogenic, offering SPF 50+ protection with an invisible finish.

Melanated or pigmented skin

Those with melanated or darker skin tones should opt for sunscreens that are tinted or that rub in invisibly. While melanin provides natural skin protection, it doesn’t mean you are entirely safe from skin cancer, making wearing sunscreen necessary.

Mesoprotech® melan 130 pigment control SPF 50

Very high factor tinted sun protection for skin with pigmentation imperfections. A depigmenting ingredient helps regulate melanin synthesis by reinforcing the preventative anti-spot action. A coloured texture that provides a natural tone and softens imperfections, unifying skin tone. Water-resistant.

Supergoop! CC Screen 100% Mineral CC Cream SPF 50

A complete care cream that instantly colour corrects, evens the appearance of skin and provides broad spectrum protection. Available in 15 shades to suit all skin tones.

You’ve got this!

Protecting your face from the sun’s harmful rays decreases the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer.

Whether gardening, playing sports, or just having fun in the sun, choose a sunscreen specific to your skin type and apply it daily for superior sun protection.

Are you already seeing the signs of sun damage? We have safe and effective non-surgical treatments that can refresh and rejuvenate your complexion.

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