This might just be the most important page on our website.
Even strong, healthy skin needs protection. UVA, UVB and HEV light are the enemies of all skin types so protecting yourself from their damaging effects is essential.
How important is it to wear sunscreen daily?
Everyone, regardless of skin type, should be wearing a good SPF. The importance of wearing an SPF daily cannot be underestimated when you consider –
- We are each exposed to High Energy Visible Light (HEV) daily. This light deeply penetrates our skin.
- We are each exposed to UVA light daily, which is ageing, damaging and penetrates to mid skin depths.
- We are each exposed to UVB light daily, which is ageing, damaging and penetrates the more superficial levels of the skin.
What’s the difference between a chemical and a physical sunscreen?
A physical sunscreen offers protection at the surface level of the skin by reflecting the damaging light before it penetrates the epidermis. It offers instant protection, and lasts longer but is subject to being washed away by sweat or water.
A chemical sunscreen offers protections within the skin. Some light gets through but it is then stopped from causing damage within the skin. Less is needed, fewer applications are required and protection gaps are less likely. It also is a better water resistant option as the protection occurs within.
For someone with sensitive skin, a chemical sunscreen is not appropriate as allowing the light into the skin at all can cause irritation. Chemical sunscreens have their uses but are likely to be phased out as physical sunscreens improve.
Is screen light bad for my skin?
The answer to this is still being studied and is not fully understood. The light from screens is known as HEV light (High Energy Visible light) which makes it different to UVA and UVB which are not visible. Research to date has shown it’s likely not very good for your eyes.
Regarding skin, some studies have shown that for people with darker complexions it may increase hyperpigmentation. The verdict is still out but indications are that we should take steps to protect our skin from it through moisturizers and good skin care practices regardless.
What sunscreen should I wear?
The ZO Sun Protection Range has five products each specifically designed for purpose and suited to specific skin types and conditions.
Sunscreen +Primer SPF 30(Physical barrier) | This product offers physical protection from UVA/UVB rays as well as HEV light. It has antioxidant properties, is suitable for all skin type, and is tinted. |
Oclipse C SPF 50(Physical barrier) | This higher factor product offers protection from UVA/UVB rays as well as HEV light. It has antioxidant properties and is suitable for all skin types. |
Smart Tone SPF 50(Chemical barrier) | This product offers chemical protection from UVA/UVB light as well as HEV light. It’s suitable for all skin types and is tinted. |
Daily Sheer SPF 50(Chemical barrier) | This product offers chemical protection from UVA/UVB light as well as HEV light. It’s suitable for all skin types, is matted, and offers water resistance. |