Solar filters and sensitive skin: physical or chemical?
We are increasingly aware of the importance of using a good sunscreen to alleviate the damage that the sun causes on our skin. However, there is still much confusion about the sunscreens we should use. Sunscreens should be our allies when it comes to protecting ourselves from solar radiation. There are two types: chemical filters and physical filters.
For babies and sensitive skin is more advisable to use physical sunscreen but if you have tanned skin and not so sensitive to solar radiation is more advisable to use chemical sunscreens.
The differences between the two do not make them incompatible. We can change the type of sunscreen once we find out which one is most suitable for our skin. If you want to know why one filter is more suitable than another for your skin, read on.
Chemical or physical filters for children?
Sunscreens are applied to the skin in order to avoid the harmful effects of solar radiation. The specialists claim that both filters are equally effective in protecting the skin against these radiations, although there are certain differences between them.
Chemical filters are organic structures that, when receiving UVA and UVB rays, change their structure. Its mechanism of action is based on the fact that when they come into contact with the sun's radiation they absorb it and transform it into another type of radiation harmless to the skin.
These filters are made up of molecules capable of absorbing UVA and UVB rays, protecting the deeper layers of the skin. Its synthetic composition is not very dense so it is perfect for oily skin. The disadvantage is that being absorbed by the skin has the potential to create intolerances and allergies.
On the other hand, physical filters contain microparticles that act as small mirrors that reflect solar radiation, preventing the skin from absorbing it. They are denser than chemical filters, they leave a whitish trail.
When making a screen on the skin, this type of filter is not absorbed, and that is why its use is usually recommended for babies. The skin allergic, reactive or with dermatitis should also be protected with this type of filters when exposed to sunlight.
Therefore, people with greater risk, whether it is for sensitive, clear or burns-prone skin, are advised to use physical filters. The darker skins and not so susceptible to solar radiation opt for a chemical protector.
5 tips to take care of our skin in summer
1. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun between 11:30 and 3:00 p.m. Very few people follow this advice but it is a certainty that the skin does not forget the sun exposure to which we submit. Over the years we can suffer the consequences of these exhibitions.
2. Reapply cream at least every hour. It is important to apply cream again after having sweat a lot or after having been in the water for more than 40 minutes. The cream gradually disappears so we must be careful.
3. Moisturize your skin. It is essential to drink lots of water and use a cream or lotion that moisturizes our skin. On the face we can use masks to get a clean and hydrated skin.
4. Sleep. Your skin also needs rest. It is recommended to sleep at least 8 hours a day to be rested and that we do not pass bill, also on the skin. Avoid these signs of fatigue and dryness.
5. Watch your skin. If you see any change in your skin (color, texture, moles or abnormal spots) do not hesitate to consult your trusted doctor. If any alteration of the skin - aesthetic or medical - is detected in time, the treatments are more likely to work.
María Rojas Sanabria
