Why wear sunscreen?
Overexposure to the sun can lead to skin damage. It causes wrinkling, sagging skin, age spots but more importantly, it can cause cancer. As a matter of fact, UV (ultra violet) rays are the number one cause of skin cancer.
Did you know that a history of sunburns can raise a person’s risk of getting skin cancer? More than 5 sunburns can double your chances of melanoma. In the United States more than 95,000 people are diagnosed with skin cancer daily. The older you get the higher your chance of developing skin cancer, but it can develop in young teens and children too. What can you do to avoid this? Wear sunscreen. Making sunscreen part of your daily regimen is one of the healthiest choices you can make for yourself and every member of your family regardless of age.
Whether you are outside or using an indoor tanning salon (yes, indoor tanning counts too!) your skin can become damaged by UV rays in as little as fifteen minutes. When you are outside, you can reduce this risk by finding shade, wearing a hat and by wearing long sleeves and long pants. Dark or colorful clothes tend to absorb the sun’s rays and offer a bit more protection than white or lighter colors. Some clothing is made specially for being in the sun using fabric that protects from UV rays. Unfortunately, it is not always practical to wear these clothes, for example, when you are at the beach or participating in sports activities. They also leave some skin exposed, in particular, the hands and face. What else can you do to be safe in the sun? Let’s say it again, wear sunscreen. It protects your skin by blocking and absorbing harmful UVA ( associated with skin aging) and UVB (associated with skin burning) rays.
Sunscreen types
In simple terms there are basically two sunscreen types; chemical and physical. Physical sunscreens contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide (the stuff that may leave a white film or cast leaving you looking ghostly). Chemical sunscreens (almost everything else) forms a layer on the skin to protect it. You may also hear these described as inorganic, a sunscreen that does not have carbon bonds (physical) or organic, one that contains carbon (chemical). Both work well and which to choose is a matter of personal preference (lightweight vs. thicker; shininess or finish on the skin; how easily it applies to the skin, etc) and matching what works best for your skin type. Note that if you tend to have allergic reactions, a physical based product may be better for you. If you have sensitive skin, you may be more comfortable using a chemical based sunscreen. Some sunscreens contain essence. Essences provide hydration and nourishment skin. Basically, they are formulated to be lightweight while still working as well as heavier moisturizers.
When choosing a sunscreen be aware of
SPF/PPD/PA+
The higher the number of SPF/PD or the more +’s in a PA+ product the more protection it gives you.15 is the lowest recommended amount of SPF in sunscreen a product must contain to offer sun protection.
Recommended usage
Notice how often you need to reapply. A good general rule is to reapply every two hours. If you are very active in the water or sweating you may want to reapply more frequently.
White cast
It should be very minimal or none at all.
Makeup
Some cosmetics contain sunscreen. Many sunscreens can be worn under makeup. Be sure to double check the number of SPF/PPD/PA+ contained. If it is not 15 or more use another sun protection product with a higher number.
Expiration date
Sunscreen has a shelf life of three years. HOWEVER, if it has been exposed to heat it will be shorter.
Why consider Korean sunscreens?
Korean hair care, skin care and make-up uses innovative textures and technology that is ahead of what is produced stateside. Many of their cosmetic products contain sun protective ingredients as a norm. Sunscreens are considered a drug in the United States and therefore, must submit to testing and FDA guidelines.
The ingredient approval process takes longer in the U.S than in other places. Due to this, more innovative and possibly effective ingredients do not get included into similar American products.The U.S. uses a SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating which is very important but Korea goes a step further with their protection rating system. Their PPD (Persistent Pigment Darkening) system is used for UVA rays. This is the amount of time it takes protected skin to darken compared to unprotected skin. A PPD of 20 means it takes protected skin 20 minutes longer than unprotected skin to tan. There is also the PA +(Protection Grade of UVA) system of rating. The more +’s the higher the amount of protection. Korean sunscreens tend to be lighter and less greasy. Many also contain more benefits than non Korean sunscreens such as hydration and antioxidants.
In reality, Korean sunscreens offer more variety, more hydration and make it possible to find something for a wider variety of skin types. That is what is all boils down to, finding a product that protects, works with your skin type and fits your lifestyle. So, why not use a sunscreen that will give a better feeling and more protective result while also replenishing the skin?
Best Korean Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin
Neogen Dermalogy
Neogen Dermalogy literally glides on the skin and is non sticky.This sunscreen has a moisturizing formula that also includes antioxidants. It protects from both UVA and UVB rays. Your skin will feel renewed and fresh. Use it in all your daily activities.
COOLA Organic Sunscreen
Not full of yucky chemicals, Coola is a mineral based sunscreen. It has a refreshing coconut-cucumber scent. You can use it as a daily moisturizer and sunscreen all in one. It has a SPF of 50 and can be worn under make-up and leaves your skin with a smooth, matte finish.
A’PIEU Pure Block
This sunscreen is great to use with make-up. With a slight citrus hint that gently fades,
it leaves skin feeling light and dewy. With a SPF of 45, A’pieu gives you all day protection everyday!
MAKEP:REM UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Fluid
This sun fluid not only protects against both UVA and UVB rays but it contains botanical ingredients that lower the skin’s temperature to help prevent aging. Rubus Arcticus stem cells are also part of this wonderful product. These stem cells improve skin conditions due to their antioxidant nature. On top of all this it can be worn under make-up.
COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream
This is truly a soothing sun cream. It contains Aloe to soothe and moisturize at the same time. It will not dry the skin and provides a SPF of 50. It is wonderful under makeup due to being lightweight and non greasy.
Missha All Around Safe Block Soft Finish Sun Milk
This sunblock is effective in protecting even when you are in the water or sweaty. It has plenty of UV protection, a sweet floral smell and leaves your skin with a soft, silky feel.
Missha All Around Safe Block Essence Sun
You will find that This sunblock has a slightly sweet fragrance, is lightweight, has no white cast and great UVA and UVB protection. It contains essence (a watery gel that has concentrated anti-aging, moisturizing and complexion-evening ingredients) which is definitely an added bonus.
PURITO Comfy Water Sun Block
This unscented block is non sticky, super light and will not leave a white cast. It’s formula is 70% water making it great to wear under make-up. It is super lightweight and spreads easily.
Earth’s Recipe Waterful Sun Gel
Earth’s Recipe Waterful protects against UVA and UVB rays. Waterful is easily absorbed into the skin. It is dermatologist tested and hypoallergenic and best for normal to dry skin. The fresh aura scent is light for those who do not care for heavier scents.
Dr.G Green Mild Up Sun
Safe for sensitive skin, this lotion not only protects from the sun’s damaging effects, but also protects against blue light from electrical appliances (monitors, cell phones, etc). Mild Up Sun is mineral based with no chemical filters. It works well under many foundations and is very suitable for combination and oily skin types.
Dr G Brightening Up Sun Cream
This has a pleasant powdery scent. It brightens and evens skin tone and offers great sun protection. Brightening up has many skin soothing ingredients including aloe, calendula, witch hazel, centella and green tea to name a few. It has a no white cast and a matte finish that works well with makeup.
Innisfree Intensive Triple Care Sunscreen
Innisfree uses all natural mineral filters to protect skin. It’s formula contains sunflower oil and Jeju green tea extract to moisturize. It is a powerful sunscreen that is water resistant. It has a subtle glow finish with a light creamy texture that can be worn all day.
ETUDE HOUSE Sunprise Mild Airy Finish Sun Milk
Sunprise is a moisturizing gel. It contains lecithin which is a fat that is essential in the body’s cells. This is combined with aloe vera, Hyaluronic acid and cactus to hydrate. Your skin is left feeling dewey without a heavy cream feeling.
Atomy Absolute Essence Sun UV Protector
This is maximum protection. It uses four filters to protect from UVA and UVB rays. Although it is a thick cream it absorbs into the skin well leaving no white cast. It brightens the skin and works well in water and when sweaty.Good for all skin types, it has a very light scent and can be used as a makeup primer.
Village Factory 11 Hydra Sun Fluid
This is an essence type sunblock that makes it light and fast absorbing. It is more of a moisture gel. To calm and hydrate skin it contains Moringa Seed extract. It’s Broad Spectrum SPF 50+/PA++++ provides excellent UVA and UVB protection.
THANKYOU FARMER Sun Project Water Sun Cream
This sun cream is loaded with hydrating extracts like which include African walnut oil, inca omega oil and bamboo. The aloe leaf extract, hollyhock root work also calm and protect the skin’s moisture. With SPF50+ PA+++ ratings your skin is thoroughly protected from possible sun damage.
[KLAIRS] Soft Airy UV Essence
This Essence is wonderful for daily use with sensitive skin. It has a high SPF50 and PA+++ rating for excellent protection. Since it is water based it goes on non sticky with no white cast and a lightweight feel and finish.
Papa Recipe Bombee Moist Sun Essence
This is a formula that is suitable for all skin types. Fast absorbing and fragrance free, it is easy to apply and non greasy. Red and violet flower complexes promote help to create a skin barrier that is quite soothing. Not only does it nourish, moisturize and soothe your skin but it has SPF50+/PA+++ to provide you with full sun protection.
Conclusion
You should ALWAYS wear sunscreen, EVERYDAY. It is best to apply sunscreen before you are going to be out in the sun (or tanning bed). It takes approximately fifteen minutes for your skin to absorb sunscreen. While any sunscreen is helpful, Korean products tend to be lighter, leave no white cast,can be easily worn with make-up and may include antioxidants, moisturizers, essence and other ingredients that are not available in other sun blocks. Remember, the sun’s rays:
- Are the strongest from late morning to mid afternoon
- In the summer months
- At higher altitudes
- Closer to the equator
- Can affect you even on cloudy days.
Be safe and slather up!
Sources:
1. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/statistics/behavior.htm
2. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/sun-safety.htm
3. https://www.marieclaire.com/beauty/g33546161/best-korean-sunscreens/