Why Should You Use Zinc Sunscreen?
Sun damage can often have lasting effects on your skin, from skin cancer to premature aging. So when it comes to protecting your skin against the sun’s powerful rays, you’ll want to use the best sunscreen possible. If you’ve spent time researching your options, you may have heard of zinc oxide sunscreen. But what exactly is zinc sunscreen, and what are the pros of using it?
Zinc oxide is an FDA-approved ingredient for a variety of skincare products and treatments, from soap to baby lotion. It has been used for centuries to prevent and treat minor skin irritations like cuts and burns. Zinc is also an important mineral for your metabolism, and zinc deficiency can lead to skin changes, dermatitis, and even hair loss.
Zinc is an especially powerful ingredient for sunscreen because it sits on top of your skin’s surface, instead of being absorbed.This means that zinc mineral sunscreen works instantly as a physical blocker against the sun, unlike chemical sunscreens which often require a waiting period for skin absorption.
When it comes to preventing sunburns, people often think about protecting themselves from UVB rays, also known as burn rays. But the sun also emits UVA rays, which penetrate deeply into your skin, leading to skin cancer and immune regulation issues. UVA rays can also contribute to sunspots, discoloration, wrinkles and more. Chemical sunscreens often do not provide protection against UVA rays, which can make your skin more vulnerable to damage. Zinc sunscreen, however, reflects both UVA and UVB rays. Zinc oxide is also photostable, which means that it will not change when interacting with sunlight.
Zinc sunscreen can be used on all skin types and by people of all ages, especially babies or children whose skin has not fully matured, as well as expecting mothers. People with sensitive skin will also benefit from zinc oxide because it is antimicrobial and non-comedogenic, which means it will not clog your pores. It can also be effective for people with redness, rosacea and eczema, or be used as a topical treatment post-sunburn.
Besides its sun-protecting abilities, zinc also holds other hidden benefits for your skin. It is often used in anti-acne and anti-dandruff products, because it is antiseptic. Zinc has also been found to boost your collagen stability, leading to plumper and younger looking skin. It can also lead to more hydrated skin, because it locks in moisture in your skin’s natural barrier after being applied.