What is a physical sunscreen?

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There are now many types of sunscreens such as physical sunscreens, chemical sunscreens, or a hybrid between physical and chemical. Each type will have distinct advantages and disadvantages.

1. What is a physical sunscreen?

Physical sunscreens are inorganic sunscreens, usually consisting of the ingredients titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. In particular, Titanium dioxide is the main active ingredient, creating a white cream on the skin. This cream has the ability to reflect UV rays, preventing UV rays from penetrating the skin, causing darkening and darkening of the skin.

2. The mechanism of physical sunscreen

Physical sunscreens create a protective barrier on the skin, helping to block and reflect UV rays, preventing them from penetrating the skin. The cream sits on the skin like a protective coating against UV rays.

3. Pros and cons of physical sunscreens

Pros: Protects skin from UVA and UVB rays. No need to wait as long as chemical sunscreens. Protects skin from UVA and UVB rays. Less irritating to the skin, suitable for those with sensitive skin or skin that is easily irritated (hot, red, burning) when exposed to sunlight due to its ability to soothe skin well. Forms a durable sunscreen for a long time. Cons The cream is thick and dense, so it is easy to cause skin congestion, clogged pores leading to acne, oily skin causing darkening and darkening of the skin. Sunscreen is easily washed off if the skin sweats a lot. Therefore, when you have to do a lot of outdoor activities or are exposed to water, physical sunscreen will not be suitable. Physical sunscreens often create a white layer on the skin, not matching the skin color. Therefore, this will be a disadvantage for those of you with dark skin. Physical sunscreen is also difficult to match with makeup base.

4. Notes to help use effective physical sunscreen

Use sunscreen every day, even when working in the office, when it's shady, it's raining because UV rays can still shine through clouds, glass doors, and clothes. Apply sunscreen on the neck because the skin in this area is thin and vulnerable to UV rays. Use sunscreen with sun protection index suitable for environmental conditions. Sunscreen is the last step in skin care, after moisturizer and before makeup. After applying the moisturizing layer, you should wait about 10-15 minutes before applying the white cream to avoid other ingredients affecting the effect of the sunscreen. If you have to be outdoors for a long time, sweat a lot or are exposed to water, you can choose a chemical sunscreen with water resistance and should reapply sunscreen after about 3 hours. Right after applying physical sunscreen, you can go out immediately, no need to wait like chemical sunscreen.

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