The question of sunscreen – physical or chemical?

ISSADA has just released a clinically formulated sunscreen. But before we tell you all about this exceptional SPF, it’s worth learning a little about the choices you have when you are selecting a sunscreen that to protect your skin. 

Putting sunscreen on your face (and other exposed parts of your body) is one of the best daily beauty routines you can establish. Not only are you protecting yourself from the harmful UV rays and the possibility of skin cancers, but you are also protecting your skin from the damaging, ageing effects the sun hands out.

If you were brought up in an Australia, you probably remember the thick, greasy, white SPF lotion being slapped on by Mum before going outside. (Sorry for triggering your PTSD). Sunscreen has come a long way from what we remember as kids. 

Yes, sunscreen is vitally important – especially here in Australia – but do you understand the different types of sunscreen?  Not only how effective they are but also the impact they have on your skin? 

Physical sunscreen works by deflecting UV rays away from the skin whereas chemical sunscreens absorb them. But it’s not quite that simple.

Because a physical sunscreen sits more on the surface of the skin (think lifesavers with their white zinc noses) they are typically thick and opaque. This is because they contain active ingredients such as titanium dioxide and/or zinc, which are both white powders in their original form.

However, with chemical sunscreens, rather than reflect back the UV rays they absorb the UV light and dissipate the damaging heat to protect it from reaching your skin.

 

Chemical sunscreens provide highly effective protection without necessarily needing to be in high concentrations of ingredients, which means they can be formulated with a lightweight, non-sticky feel and they spread easily on the skin with leave no white ghost effect.

At Issada we have been extolling the benefits of natural make-up and the use of minerals since our inception. But when it comes to sunscreen, we are on the side of a chemical formula – but not just any old chemical formula. 

Let’s break down our reasoning...

Why we chose to create a chemical SPF formula 

◾ By creating a barrier on the surface of the skin, physical sunscreens are more likely to cause congestion in the skin, breakouts and even sweat rashes.

◾ Physical sunscreen causes “ghosting” - the white appearance.

◾ Physical sunscreen tends to dry out the skin more.

◾ Physical sunscreens do not last as long on the skin as chemical sunscreens.

◾ To get hours of protection, you do need a chemical sunscreen, or you need to constantly reapply the physical screen.

◾ Makeup does not sit well on physical sunscreen.

While some chemical UV filters have been known to cause allergic reactions and irritation in sensitive skin allergic reactions are a small risk and not commonly seen - whereas sun damage in the Australian climate is an absolute certainty.

 

We’ve taken our time to formulate a sunscreen that is highly effective and feels light on your skin.

◾ 4 hour water resistant
◾ Won’t damage the environment or waterways
◾ Dries clear and sheer
◾ Lightweight and dry to touch – making it perfect for make-up application
◾ Dermatologically tested
◾ Fragrance free
◾ Paraben free
◾ Oxybenzone free
◾ Octinoxate free

Issada Sheer Defence SPF50+ (RRP $39) from selected Salons, Spas and Clinics or shop here