Exploring the Importance of Sunscreen: Benefits and Selection by Skin Type

It’s well-known that sunlight has different types of ultraviolet light, including UVB and UVA. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s rays can lead to damage to your skin cells.  Skin cell damage can ultimately result in more fine lines and wrinkles and skin cancer.

As a result, it is important to apply sunscreen on your skin so it can maintain a healthy appearance and prevent premature aging. But what type of sunscreen is best for your skin? Let’s first take a more in-depth look at sunscreen and then which type is best for your skin type.

How Sunscreen Works

There are two types of sunscreen: chemical sunscreen and mineral sunscreen.

Chemical sunscreens are made using avobenzone, octinoxate, or oxybenzone while mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

Mineral sunscreens use use small particles to physically prevent UV rays from hitting the skin.

Chemical sunscreens allow the UV rays to hit the skin but once they are absorbed, the chemicals turn the UV rays into heat that then dissipates from the skin.

Skin Types

Knowing your skin type is the first step to getting the right sunscreen for your face. There are several skin types and you may have one or a combination of the following types:

1. Normal Skin

Normal skin is usually less prone to flakiness and dryness. It’s neither too dry nor too oily. People with normal skin usually have tiny pores that are basrely visible.

Additionally, normal skin is usually smooth and less prone to sensitivity and blemishes. If you have normal skin, you likely experience fewer breakouts.

2. Oily Skin

People with oily skin tend to have enlarged skin pores and experience consistent breakouts. They may also have dull or shiny skin complexion.

One of the main disadvantages of having oily skin is the likelihood that your makeup will wear off easily.

3. Dry Skin

If you have dry skin, your skin produces less sebum or oil. This leaves your skin looking dry, rough, and flaky. Your skin may also show visible wrinkles and is typically less elastic. Dry skin is also prone to frequent itchiness.

4. Combination Skin

People with combination skin usually have oily skin around the T-zone area, but their cheeks mainly consist of dry or normal skin. The oily and dry patches are mainly caused by non-uniform sebum production. Combination skin can also be prone to frequent blackheads.

5. Sensitive Skin

You can have sensitive skin with normal, dry, oily, or combination skin. Sensitive skin reacts to different stimuli in the environment. It is also fragile and itchy, and may need specific products designed for sensitivity.

How to Pick the Right Sunscreen

For dry skin:

If you have dry skin, pick a sunscrenn with extra lubricants like hyaluronic acid or ceramides. Hyaluronic acid and ceramides help to moisturize, protect, and strengthen the skin from irritants and external aggressors.

For oily or sensitive skin:

If you have oily or sensitive skin, you should look for a mineral sunscreen rather than a chemical one. This is because zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are gentler on the face. Mineral sunscreens also have less moisturizing ingredients, so you won’t have to worry about extra oils on your face.

For normal skin:

If you have normal skin, you can choose any sunscreen that works for you. You can look at other characteristics about your skin to get the right sunscreen.

For example, mineral sunscreens with only zinc oxide (not titanium oxide) are better for people with darker complexions. This is because sunscreens with titanium oxide or a combination of titanium oxide and zinc oxide can leave a white cast.

Schedule A Consultation

If you want to learn more about your skin type, the right sunscreen for you, or how to better take care of your skin, schedule a consultation at Grand Pearl Spa today. Our team can build a full skin analysis and provide advice on the right skincare products for you.

To schedule a consultation, call us at our Grand Rapids, MI office at (616) 888-3100 or use our online scheduling form.