*This material is subjective in nature and is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required. About the selection criteria.
It's summer outside and, of course, it's time to sunbathe. But you need to do this wisely so as not to get sunburn, especially if you have delicate skin. The ideal protection is sunscreen. We have collected the best ratings for both children and adults in this article. Moreover, we looked at the options available to everyone - almost all of them can be bought at the nearest cosmetic store or pharmacy.
Sunscreen is an excellent skin protector. It helps not only to avoid burns, but also to protect the skin from the appearance of unsightly pigment spots or aging. By reflecting all the sun's dangerous rays, it also protects against developing sun allergies or skin cancer.
Top 10 best sunscreens for the body
The main criterion for choosing a good cosmetic cream is the presence of a sun protection factor in it, which determines the effectiveness of the product. Conventionally, all such preparations are usually divided into products with a basic level of protection (SPF 2-4), medium (SPF 4-10), high (SPF 10-20) and intensive (SPF 20-30). The strongest are creams with a value exceeding SPF 50. They are able to reflect more than 98% of ultraviolet radiation that hits our skin, thereby saving it from premature photoaging and reducing the risk of sunburn.
Sunscreens are more dangerous than the sun itself: new international data
So do you need sunscreen?
Photo: Evgenia GUSEVA
Did you know that, despite the active use of sunscreens, the incidence of skin cancer is increasing every year? Elizabeth Plourde, PhD, of California, has noted a significant increase in the incidence of malignant melanoma (skin cancer) associated with the widespread use of sunscreens over the past 30 years. These products, according to Dr. Plourde, contain chemicals known to be carcinogens, as well as hormonally active ingredients, the effects of which on the body are not always predictable.
So why do we put so much faith in sunscreen? Are there any real benefits to using them? We actively purchase various products that protect us from the sun, ranging from sunscreen shampoo, soap and even nail polish. There is a whole industry of sun protection products (SPF factor). But are these creams, gels, lotions really useful? People managed without them for several millennia, and the sun has been the source of life from the very beginning of time.
Is the light really that dangerous?
There is scientific evidence for the benefits of sunshine from a major study published by the Karolinska Institute in Sweden in 2014 . Mortality rates in women who avoided sunbathing were 2 times higher compared to participants who sunbathed daily. This study was significantly large and long-lasting and included 30,000 participants who were followed for 20 years!
Types of Sun Rays
We often hear about the existence of different types of sun rays. Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays are the main cause of non-melanoma cancers, such as squamous cell carcinoma of the skin. The chemicals contained in sunscreen actually block this type of ultraviolet rays, protecting the body from them.
Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, on the other hand, penetrate deeper into the skin and are more difficult to block. At the same time, a number of studies show that type A rays can be no less dangerous for the human body than type B rays.
The feeling of protection is deceptive
The SPF rating listed on a sunscreen lotion label does not reflect the skin's actual protection from the sun's rays because UVA and UVB protection cannot be combined. Products with high SPF protection only protect against UVB rays and not other types of sun exposure. By applying these products, we mistakenly think we are protected and expose ourselves to longer exposure to UVA and UVB rays. Thus, when applying sunscreen, we are protected from exposure to UVB rays, but continue to absorb harmful UVA rays.
Philippe Authier, a researcher at the International Agency for Research on Cancer within the World Health Organization, has conducted numerous studies involving people who tan. And he came to unexpected conclusions. According to the scientist, products with high SPF protection change the effect of sunlight on the body, which may be the reason... for an increased risk of developing melanoma. According to Dr. Authier, we can tan without using any sunscreen with equal success and protection against skin cancer.
Are solar filters against us?
Products with a high degree of SPF protection require higher concentrations of chemical sun filters compared to products with low SPF protection or natural oils. Some of these ingredients penetrate the skin and may have negative effects on the body. Their use has been associated with tissue damage, hormonal imbalances, and allergic skin reactions.
If products with high SPF levels demonstrated better protection against skin cancer, then the use of high concentrations of chemicals would be justified. However, the benefits of these means have not been proven, and it turns out that the choice of other - more gentle - means is more justified.
Saves the brain from excess sun
When we walk under the sun, the light entering our eyes sends signals to a part of the brain called the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland, in turn, secretes a special hormone that promotes a darker skin color and ... helps protect it from the harmful spectrum of UV rays. It turns out that our brain itself naturally protects us from excess sun. And, of course, only under the influence of sunlight does the body produce vitamin D, which is so necessary for growth, bones, normal sleep and weight.
Therefore, now specialists in various fields of medicine recognize the benefits of natural soft tanning, especially sea tanning, when sunbathing is combined with mineral salts and saturated air. So enjoy the rays of the sun, but in moderation and at the right hours (see IMPORTANT).
IMPORTANT!
How to make a tan useful
Getting the right tan is not easy. Many of us get a sunburn instead. And so every year. Although the rules for an ideal tan are simple, they must be strictly followed, advises our expert, dermatocosmetologist Nadezhda Chervinskaya :
- Limit your time in the sun. The ideal time for light tanning is from 8 to 10 am, or from 17 to 19 pm. The most “hot” direct rays of the sun are from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at this time there is a high risk of getting a sunburn instead of a light tan (and sunstroke into the bargain).
— Sunbathe no longer than half an hour a day. Start sunbathing with 15 minutes a day, for very fair-skinned people - with 5-10 minutes a day.
— Avoid alcohol on the beach. And alcoholic cocktails by the outdoor pool. Alcohol, firstly, increases the impact of ultraviolet radiation, and secondly, reduces control over time.
Missha All Around Safe Block Essence Sun SPF 45/PA+++
This cream from a Korean manufacturer has a high level of sun protection. SPF-45 provides high protection of the body skin from sun exposure. Thanks to it, you can spend some time in very active sun and get an even tan. The composition of the cream is considered hypoallergenic and contains extracts of oriental plants, due to which the skin is moisturized and nourished with beneficial elements. The cream effectively tones the body skin and is suitable for facial skin. The cream does not leave streaks or stains on the skin and can serve as a base for makeup.
Pros:
- Hypoallergenic composition;
- Contains extracts of exotic plants;
- Moisturizes, nourishes and tones the skin;
- Economical consumption;
- High protection SPF-45.
Minuses:
- High price.
SHISEIDO Very High Sun Protection Cream
This cream has powerful sun protection - SPF50+. Thanks to this property, you can stay in the open sun for a long time. The cream has increased water-repellent properties, so it will not wash off if you decide to swim. The composition of the cream contains special components that nourish and moisturize the skin of the body and face. Economical consumption will allow you to use one jar of cream for several seasons.
Pros:
- High protection SPF50+;
- Has water-repellent properties;
- Moisturizes and nourishes the skin;
- Economical consumption;
- Prevents the appearance of age spots.
Minuses:
- The cream is difficult to wash off. This can only be done with the help of makeup remover.
Sun Look cushion for face
Sun protection cushion is suitable for protecting facial skin. It has a universal ability that allows you to use the cushion as a base for makeup and as a coating over it. High sun protection SPF-50+ will reliably protect your face from sunburn, flaking and dryness. The composition of the cushion does not cause irritation to the facial skin and is classified as a hypoallergenic cosmetic. The texture is a little oily, but quickly absorbs into the skin without leaving a sticky or greasy film. The cushion has a pleasant citrus aroma and is water-repellent.
Pros:
- Pleasant aroma;
- High protection SPF50+;
- Moisturizes facial skin;
- Suitable for makeup base;
- Hypoallergenic composition.
Minuses:
- Expensive price for small volume;
- Uneconomical expense.
Holy Land Sunbrella Demi Make-Up
The sunscreen has moderate protection - SPF30. The cream is suitable for protecting facial skin and helps to obtain a light and beautiful tan without harming the delicate epidermis of the skin. It is recommended to apply the cream to the skin of the face 20 minutes before going outside. Its texture is dense and very thick, which spreads well over the skin and is absorbed within 5 minutes. The cream has a moisturizing and nourishing effect on the skin of the face, and also tones it well.
Pros:
- Evens out facial tone;
- Suitable as a base for makeup;
- Moisturizes and tones the skin;
- Quickly absorbed;
- Economical consumption.
Minuses:
- High price.
Use safe titanium dioxide and zinc oxide products
Many nano-sized particles (less than 100 nanometers in size) have been found in American sunscreens containing either titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. Animal studies have shown that inhaled nanoparticles can reach all areas of your respiratory tract and, because your lungs have a hard time clearing small particles, these particles can pass into the bloodstream.
Other studies have shown that some nanoparticles are even able to cross the blood-brain barrier and enter the brain. If such particles enter your lungs or penetrate your skin, they can potentially cause severe toxic effects on the immune system, nervous system, heart and brain. Some scientists argue that the size of the particles affects their toxic effect, because with a size similar to the size of viruses, it is possible for the body to develop an immune response, like to a viral infection.
Inhalation of large amounts of zinc oxide can lead to “metal fever,” characterized by chest pain, cough, shortness of breath, decreased lung capacity, nausea, chills, malaise, and leukocytosis. One animal study found that zinc oxide nanoparticles had a cytotoxic effect on cells, interfering with zinc homeostasis and increasing zinc concentrations. Such changes led to increased apoptosis (cell death).
An Indian study found that zinc oxide particles can cause toxicity in lung cells, possibly through “stress-induced apoptosis.” There is currently a severe lack of human studies assessing the health effects of zinc oxide particles, especially smaller particles such as those from short-term exposure through sunscreen spray.
It may be considered that using zinc oxide-containing sprays involves exposure to a completely unnecessary risk. For safer use of sunscreens, you should choose creams that do not contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide in the form of nano-sized particles.
THE VITAMIN D PATHWAY AND ITS EFFECT ON THE GENOME
Ducray Melascreen
The sunscreen has high sun protection SPF50+ and helps prevent the appearance of age spots. The cream contains vitamin E, which actively nourishes dry skin, saturating it with useful components. The cream can be used as a base for makeup, because foundation and powder lie on the skin in an even layer. The consistency of the cream is delicate and quickly absorbed. If you have oily skin, then do not be alarmed by the formation of a light film. In about 7 minutes it will disappear from your skin.
Pros:
- High sun protection SPF50+;
- Prevents the appearance of age spots;
- Evens out facial tone;
- Contains vitamin E;
- Quickly absorbed.
Minuses:
- High price.
Features of chemical filters
Chemical filters in sunscreen differ from physical ones in that they absorb ultraviolet radiation and neutralize its negative effects. Solar energy is converted into heat. That's why they are also called sunblocks. The advantage of chemical barriers is that they work great and protect the skin even with an SPF of less than 20. But the problem is that not all substances cope with UVA radiation.
Possible health problems from the use of UV filters in sunscreens
Therefore, for complete protection, combinations of several physical and chemical ultraviolet filters are used. Disadvantages include frequent allergic reactions, dermatitis and side effects from the use of such sunscreens. But these products are easy to apply, distribute and do not leave marks or film on the body and clothes.
The main difference between physical and chemical UV barriers is that the former are harmless to health, while the latter are very effective. A combination of the two works well.
VICHY IDEAL SOLEIL
The sunscreen comes in spray form. It is convenient to use, since you can easily spray the product yourself onto hard-to-reach areas of the body. The spray has average sun protection SPF30, which will allow you to be in the open sun, but not during its maximum activity. The line includes two types of spray, which differ from each other in the alcohol content in the composition. If this type has a small amount of alcohol, which can dry out the skin, then the second one does not. The second type of spray is called Vichy Capital Ideal Soleil - a delicate veil.
Pros:
- The product is presented in the form of a spray;
- Moisturizes the skin (option 2);
- Long lasting;
- Suitable for face and body.
Minuses:
- The first option contains alcohol, which dries out the skin of the body.
