All about sunscreen

Casey Michelle Barlow wrote: “Skin care question: what's the best sunscreen for sensitive skin? I tend to breakout easily when using it on my face, even when it's oil free. “










Casey, as we all know, damage from the sun’s ultra-violet rays (UVA – Aging, UVB – Burning) causes premature aging, wrinkling, crow’s-feet, uneven skin tone and even causes deaths from skin cancers. Most sunscreens marketed today are specially formulated to be non-comedogenic. This is a word used for products that do not clog pores. Because the compounds in sunscreen products do not clog pores, sunscreens are not likely to be the root cause of breakouts. Having said that, most sunblocks contain oils, fragrances or other additives that may aggravate an acne condition that already exists.

If you already have some level of acne, you may be frustrated in searching for a sunscreen product that is right for you. You know that UVA rays are always finding a way to get you . . . even through your car’s windows, so daily protection is a MUST! You probably have some sun protection in your daily moisturizer and makeup. The SKIN CANCER FOUNDATION Prevention Guidelines advise to Use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day.

For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB)
sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

For Oily Skin types know that excessive oil is not your friend. Oil based products will only cause your pores to become more clogged and, in turn, generate more acne. Stay away from heavy lotion sunscreens. Unless your lifestyle requires an abnormal amount of sun exposure, your current skin care routine MIGHT already be sufficient protection for your face. Check to see what level of SPF is contained in the cosmetic and skin care products you are currently using. You want the total SPF to add up to at least 15. If it does, you may be sufficient. If not, you would need to add an additional sunscreen product. In the event that you are constantly exposed to sun a protection level of SPF 40 (or higher) would be advised. In addition, you would need to reapply during the day.

Look for a light lotion, spray or foam product. In the morning, after cleansing your face, apply the sunscreen and let it completely dry before adding moisturizer and makeup. Try to make this a habitual part of your regular skincare routine. If your skin is excessively oily you may want to add a face powder containing SPF to help with any shine coming through during the day.

If your skin is dry and acne prone you have a very different issue. That is keeping your skin hydrated and your pores clean and unclogged. Typical acne products can easily add to your dry skin problem. Sun exposure is NOT YOUR FRIEND! It can cause your acne to become even worse. In addition, because your skin is dry you are probably sensitive to various ingredients commonly found in sunscreen.

Sunscreen for dry skin should be a cream or heavy lotion and provide a broad spectrum protection of 25 – 60. Same as with oily skin, become in the habit of applying your sunscreen to cleansed skin and let completely dry before moving on to moisturizer application and makeup. Be sure to reapply during the day if you are constantly exposed to the sun.

Blocked pores cause acne. The use of heavy creams and lotions may create acne flare ups. If your skin becomes red and irritated, stop using the sunscreen product right away.

Typical ingredients that are cause for concerns for skin irritations are: Avobenzone, Benzophenone, Methoxycinnamate, and Para-aminobenzoic Acid (PABA)

It is recommended that sensitive skin types look for the ingredients dimethicone and cyclomethicone in your sunscreen.

I realize that I am not recommending a specific product, Casey. With sensitive skin, it may be an issue of trial and error. I carry SANITAS brand in my treatment room and find it extremely effective.

Now Casey, you are entered into the monthly drawing for FREE European Facial just for submitting your skincare question. Look to see if you’re a winner on the last day of this month!