05/06/2026
It is Skin Cancer Awareness Month! And sunscreen is an essential product for protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. 😎🌤️ There are several types of sunscreens available, each with its own benefits and uses. Here’s a brief overview:
Physical (Mineral) Sunscreens:
🔸These contain active mineral ingredients, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
🔸They work by sitting on top of the skin to deflect and scatter damaging UV rays away from the skin.
🔸Often recommended for people with sensitive skin as they are less likely to cause irritation.
Chemical Sunscreens:
🔸These contain organic (carbon-based) compounds, like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, and homosalate.
🔸They work by absorbing UV radiation, converting it into heat, and then releasing it from the skin.
🔸Tend to be thinner and, therefore, spread more easily on the skin, making them more wearable for daily use.
Broad-Spectrum Sunscreens:
🔸Offer protection against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
🔸Important for comprehensive sun protection.
🔸The label “broad-spectrum” indicates that the sunscreen has been tested and shown to protect against both types of harmful rays
SPF Rating:
🔸Stands for Sun Protection Factor.
🔸Indicates the level of protection from UVB rays (sunburn)
🔸The higher the SPF, the higher the blockage from burning. SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks 98%.
🧴When choosing a sunscreen, keep these tips in mind☀️
🔸Select one that is broad-spectrum, has an SPF of 30 or higher, and is suitable for your skin type and activities.
🔸Apply it generously and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
🔸Always check the expiration date, as sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time.
🔸Visit MCMH Pharmacy and check out our sunscreen section for all your sunscreen needs! 💛🕶️
