Types of Sunscreens

Types of Sunscreens

There are two types of sunscreens, which work by either reflecting or absorbing the sun's UV rays.

1. Physical Blockers or Physical Sunscreens

   This type of sunscreen physically blocks the ultraviolet light providing a physical barrier between the skin and the sun. They contain inert mineral based non-chemical pigments or particles of size about 25 mm³ that reflect UV rays like a mirror. These are generally opaque, or becomes clear upon application.
   Zinc oxide sunscreen and titanium dioxide sunscreens are physical sunscreens.
   To make the sunscreen transparent, nowadays, nanosize particles are being used. These nanosize particles can enter the body through the skin, which may be harmful. Titanium dioxide can cause DNA damage in human cells.

2. Chemical Sunscreens

   This type of sunscreen contains chemicals that absorb ultraviolet light radiation. Chemical sunscreens include Benzophenones, PABA and PABA (para amino benzoic acid), Cinnamates, Salicylates, Digalloyl trioleat, Menthyl anthranilate, etc.
   Chemical sunscreens are powerful free radical generators, so they are not safe to use. Benzophenone is one of the most powerful free radical generators known.
   
   These are known as organic sunscreens and are made of carbon and hydrogen. Organic does not mean that they are organically produced or naturally occurring in nature.

Physical sunscreens are more effective at overall sun protection as they absorb both UVA and UVB radiations (broad spectrum) and have anti-inflammatory properties making them good for sensitive skin and acne-prone skin. Zinc oxide lies on the skin without getting absorbed, so zinc oxide based sunscreen is considered as the safe and the best.