The Truth Behind Sunscreen

Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen! Your best friend all year round.

Well, that’s what everyone tells us anyway, without saying why.

This is going to be your crash course in SPF, how it benefits you and why you need it.

SPF (sun protective factor) aka sunscreen is vital in a skincare regime. Prevention is better than correction.

The benefits for your skin of wearing SPF every day:

Fine Lines and Aging

The impact of free radical damage to your skin cells.

When ultraviolet (UV) rays come in contact with your skin, free radicals are formed. Free radicals are highly active molecules that can break down your collagen, and lead to irreversible damage to your skin cells, contributing to premature aging. By wearing SPF daily and reapplying you are preventing damage to your skin cells.

Acne and Spots

Sun exposure causes more sebum on the skin. When exposed to the sun sebum production becomes sticky and oxidizes on the skin, making it more likely to cause inflammation, clog pores and attract C.Acne Bacteria. SPF prevents sebum from oxidizing, therefore helping your skin stay healthy.

Pigmentation

Visible representation of melanocytes being activated by the sun and producing pigmentation (Melanin)

UV rays (sunlight) can be a trigger for hyperpigmentation (sun spots). UV rays go all the way to your dermis, reaching your melanocytes. Melanocytes produce pigment - these can be stimulated by the sun, therefore you start producing pigment which can be seen most commonly in sun spots and freckles.

The diagram on the right shows what Is happening below your skin, the UV rays stimulate the melanocyte which in turn, produces melanin which is seen as pigment from the top of your skin.

Different types of SPF

Chemical Sunscreen

Chemical sunscreens are used to make broad spectrum sunscreens - meaning it uses a combination of filters to block both UVA & UVB rays. These are considered to be ‘organic’, as the UV filters that are used are ‘organic chemicals’ (substances that contain carbon).

Physical Sunscreen

Physical sunscreens, also referred to as mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide as their UV filter. Still providing broad spectrum coverage they are known to cover lightly less than chemical sunscreens. In certain formulas, physical sunscreen can often leave a white cast or take longer to absorb into your skin.

The term often used when wanting to pick the ‘correct’ sunscreen is broad spectrum. This refers to blocking both UVA and UVB rays otherwise you still are at risk of further damage.

Regardless of the type of sunscreen the main goal (other than protecting the health of your skin) is to absorb the UV rays and convert them into heat. When UV rays are not absorbed using UV filters they begin to cause damage to your skin. (see above).

Is Organic sunscreen really organic?

Funnily enough, organic sunscreen is a term used for chemical sunscreens as they use ‘organic’ UV filters. If a physical sunscreen wanted to be considered organic, it would need to contain a minimum of 20% zinc oxide according to the ACO (Australian certified organic organisation) requirements. There is no such thing as a natural sunscreen, but it is important to have a look at the other ingredients in the sunscreen to ensure the rest of the formula, other than the UV filters, are still the best for your skin.

We have a range of sunscreen in the clinic from chemical to physical, body to face. It isn’t one sunscreen that fits all, it’s a very individual choice that has many contributing factors. Feel, smell, finish, type, etc. Our guide to assist you to pick your ideal sunscreen:

Mesoestetic Light Water Anti-Aging Veil

Broad spectrum chemical sunscreen, lightweight, blends into the skin & leaves a sheer glow over the skin. Doesn’t have the ‘sunscreen’ feel.

Mesoestetic Melan 130 pigment control

Broad spectrum chemical sunscreen, lightweight, tinted, helps lighten pigmentation whilst protecting the skin, sheer tint with a subtle glow. Doesn’t feel like ‘sunscreen’.

Mother SPF

Broad spectrum physical sunscreen, perfect for children and adults, clean, organic with no harsh chemicals or additives. The cleanest formula you can get!

Lira Tinted SPF

Broad spectrum physical sunscreen, tint molds into most skin tones, lightweight, evens skin tone, feels like a moisturiser.

Lira Oil Free SPF

Broad Spectrum physical sunscreen, a silky matte finish, prevents pigmentation and is anti-aging. you can slightly feel it on the skin.

Lira Hydrating SPF

Broad Spectrum physical sunscreen is super hydrating and acts as a barrier for your skin against sun, wind & water. Feels like a moisturiser with, a glowy finish.

Aspect Envirostat

Broad Spectrum chemical sunscreen, is water-resistant, anti-oxidant, smells like a banana peel, and feels & looks like sunscreen on the skin.

Always remember:

Sun Screen is an extension of your skincare.

You need to reapply your skincare in order for it to be effective throughout the day. You need to wear sunscreen every day for the health of your skin and to prevent damage from occurring. Sunscreen is a personal choice, if you don’t like the way it feels, contact your clinician and seek their advice, there is one that you will like.

Physical (Mineral) Sunscreens = Inorganic UV filters (zinc oxide & titanium oxide).

Chemical Sunscreens = Organic UV filters, aka everything else.