SPF 101
To say that I am an SPF advocate is a true understatement. It is my number one piece of skincare advice, I USE SPF ALL DAY EVERYDAY.
Not only do UV rays contribute to up to 90% of visible aging, but skin cancer affects 1 in 73 Canadian women and 1 in 59 Canadian men. It is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canada with ⅓ of all new cancer diagnoses per year being a form of skin cancer.
The intent of this isn’t to scare you, I think we all know the dangers of UV rays, and many of us remember laying in tanning beds ( VERY guilty- ugh it pains me to think about to this day). But I want to give you some information on the different types of SPF on the market.
There are two main types of sunscreen; chemical and physical. I am going to break them down very simply below.
Chemical - This type absorbs the UV rays and scatters them. It uses chemicals to grab and convert the UV rays to heat which is then released from the skin.
Types of chemical sunscreens: oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, octinoxate
Physical/Mineral - Creates a barrier and instantly filters the UV rays. Think of it like wearing a mask.
Types of physical sunscreens: zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
Which one is best for you?
Many people prefer the feeling of chemical sunscreen, especially under makeup as it can feel thinner and appear more sheer. While those with acne prone skin, sensitive skin or skin that reacts to heat (especially rosacea) physical sunscreen may be your better option.
At the end of the day we can all agree- the best SPF is the one that you are going to use!
My personal faves:
eltaMD UV Clear- https://the-beauty-collective-by-injct.myshopify.com/collections/spf-sunless-tanning/products/eltamd-uv-clear-broad-spectrum-spf-46
Colorscience Sunforgettable Brush-On https://the-beauty-collective-by-injct.myshopify.com/collections/spf-sunless-tanning/products/colorescience-sunforgettable®-brush-on-shield-spf-50
Coola Classic Body SPF 50