Believe it or not sunshine and warmer weather are right around the corner and its never too soon to start thinking about protecting your skin from the sun’s rays. If you struggle with acne, you’ll want to find a safe sunscreen that works and doesn’t aggravate your skin. In today’s blog we will explain the basics of sunscreen and factors to consider when choosing the right protection for you. We’ll end with a list of several sunscreens to consider using.
Broad Spectrum Protection is a Must
Always look for sunscreen labeled “Broad Spectrum” for maximum protection against the sun. You need protection from both categories of Ultra Violet rays: UVA (responsible for aging) and UVB (responsible for tanning and burning). Both of course, can contribute to skin cancer. Also, unprotected exposure to the sun makes acne spots darker, and the darker pigmentation will take longer to fade; not a good thing for those of us struggling with reoccurring breakouts.
Choose SPF 30 or higher
Choosing the right SPF- Sun Protection Factor- for your life style is important too. Whether your daily life includes spending most of the day indoors or outside, you’ll want to take that into consideration. Spending the day in the water, or sweating a lot while you’re in the sun are factors to remember as well. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher daily. Typical sunscreens filters 97% of the Ultra Violet rays. So the SPF number is not about how strong it is, it’s about how long you can stay in the sun. For example, if you burn after 15 minutes in the sun with no protection and you apply an SPF 10, it will take 10 times longer- 150 minutes (about 2.5 hours) to burn in the sun. If you spend a day outside recreating or working, you’ll want to use a higher SPF – like 50 or more. Make sure it is waterproof and reapply throughout the day as needed for your skin type. You will need to reapply more often if you are in the water (about every 40-80 minutes) even using a waterproof sun screen, because it does wash off after a while. The Topeka Acne and Skin Care regimen includes a lightweight sunscreen that is a good choice for daily wear even under makeup. We also offer the ultimate protection SPF a physical sunscreen that contains both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, providing broad spectrum coverage.
Non-Comedogenic or Dermatologist Recommended Sunscreen
Many oils and other ingredients in sunscreens can clog your pores (comedogenic) which is the last thing you want if you already struggle with acne. Remember, don’t use sun screen meant only for the body on your face. Not all sun screen is designed for your face. A product that is dermatologist recommended is a good place to start your search. There are sun screen products labeled just for the face or for both face and body. Fortunately, there are now many brands selling non-comedogenic and/or dermatologist recommended sunscreens.
Avoid Oxybenzone and Other Chemicals
Oxybenzone and many other chemical listed in typical sunscreens can cause irritation to the skin tissue which paves the way for bacteria to multiply on your face. Acne prone skin already has a weakened barrier against bacterial growth. As you search for a sunscreen right for you, make sure you read the label and avoid the ones with many chemicals, especially Oxybenzone. In fact, the Environmental Working Group scores Oxygenzone at 8 on it’s toxicity scale. It was named “Allergen of the Year” by the American Contact Dermatitis Society in 2014. It may not be possible to avoid chemicals entirely, but lean toward the most natural sunscreen products you can find that work for your skin’s needs.
Consider Zinc or Titanium Oxide
If your skin is very sensitive besides being acne-prone, try mineral sunscreens. No longer are they a thick white substance that doesn’t blend in. Several manufacturers have made an easy to rub in disappearing mineral sunblock. Zinc Titanium has a somewhat drying effect on the skin, which you’ll want to keep in mind as you search for the best sun protection for your skin. It could be helpful for those with an oilier complexion, or if you have dry skin consider how you’ll moisturize if you decide to go that route.
Using Acne Medication?
Remember medications like Retin A and salicylic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. There may be other medications too, that come with a warning about making your skin more susceptible to the sun’s damaging rays. Be sure to check your product’s warning labels. Rest assured, you can use your acne med along with sunscreen. Put your medication on first and wait until it is absorbed. Afterward you can apply your sun protection product. At night be sure to use your facial cleansing products to remove your sunscreen.
Topeka Acne Skin Care has sunscreens that all have different specs for each individual’s skin type.
Are you using the one that’s best for you? Find out below!
Ultimate-protection – spf
If you have oily skin or spend a lot of time in the sun:
Face Reality Ultimate Protection Sunscreen SPF 28 – A physical sunblock that contains both Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, which provides broad spectrum coverage from harmful UVA and UVB rays. It also includes Allantoin which is soothing, moisturizing and promotes healthy cell renewal. This is an excellent choice for sensitive and rosacea skin types.
Moisturizing Sunscreen – spf -30
If you have dry skin and want a moisturizer and sunscreen in one:
Face Reality Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 30 – This sunscreen combines physical sun protectants (titanium dioxide) and chemical ingredients (avobenzone) to provide excellent sun protection in a moisturizing formula. Ideal for those with normal to dry skin.
Daily lotion- spf- 30
If you have normal/combination skin or dark skin:
Face Reality Daily SPF 30 Lotion – Our most lightweight sunscreen for daily sun protection. With no physical sunscreen added, this formula offers the least protection against UVA rays. However, its lightweight texture makes it a good choice for everyday wear. Women find it the most compatible with their makeup, and those with medium to dark skin tones will appreciate that this sunscreen does not appear pale upon application.
SolRx Sunscreen SPF 44 – This sunscreen is a trusted choice of athletes and lifeguards for protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Originally designed for triathletes, swimmers and surfers, the SPF 44 Dry Zinc Sunscreen offers broad spectrum protection and it will not burn your eyes if you sweat.
Here at Topeka Acne and Skin Care we carry acne products and safe sunscreen. I am a licensed esthetician who can help you with any and all your skin care needs. Call and make an appointment today.
913-702-4769, or book your appointment on line at www.topekaacneskincare.com
If you’ve found a product that follows the recommendations in this blog and has worked well for your skin keeping it sun safe and blemish free, please comment below.