My Top 5 Must-Have Sunscreen Ingredients
Summer is in full swing, and with this heat wave we’ve been having, it makes sense why lots of my patients are spending their days by the pool and beach. Aside from a good book, pair of sunglasses, and some healthy snacks, packing and reapplying sunscreen throughout the day is a must for spending the day by the water.
As a naturopathic doctor and holistic skin expert, I know that applying sunscreen is not only important in preventing skin cancer, premature signs of aging, and that dreaded sunburn, but not all sunscreens are the same, and the type (and form) of sunscreen you use is important! My go-to sunscreen is one that is a mineral, broad-spectrum, SPF of 50 or higher, and tinted.
The secret of a good sunscreen lies in the ingredient list on the back of the tube that most people overlook when they are buying sunscreen. Keep reading to find out my Top 5 Must-Have Sunscreen ingredients to look out for before lathering yourself up this summer!
1. Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide is an inorganic mineral that is added to mineral-based or physical sunscreens. Zinc acts as a physical shield to block and protect against mainly UVA rays that account for the premature again effect. Zinc oxide-based sunscreens start working as soon as they are applied to the skin- no need to wait 30 minutes before sun exposure! Zinc oxide is often combined with titanium dioxide to create a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreens that are physical (containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) are more opaque than traditional chemical sunscreens and need a few extra minutes to rub in. To help prevent a white film or "white cast” from the physical sunscreens, mineral formulations, often include iron oxide to help offset the white cast and create a pleasing tint on the skin.
2. Titanium Dioxide
Titanium dioxide, like zinc oxide, is an inorganic mineral that is a component of physical sunscreens. Titanium dioxide is a great physical blocker of UVB rays that cause the dreaded sunburn, so it is often paired with zinc oxide in the formulation. This physical blocker also starts working as soon as it is applied to the skin. The texture and consistency of titanium dioxide is similar to zinc oxide and both require a little extra time blending the formula into your skin. Iron oxide is also commonly used in formulas with titanium dioxide to help ease the blending process.
3. Algae
I love algae in sunscreens because they serve multiple purposes and have many benefits! As many of us know, algae are packed with macro and micronutrients, and when applied topically to the skin, can have an antioxidant effect combating the potential damage of free radicals in our environment and from the sun. The little powerhouse also has shown to be effective in protecting against UV rays and blue light emitted from our phones, computers, and TVs that contribute to increased skin aging and worsening of pigment conditions like melasma. Most of my favorite physical sunscreens contain algae, and it is something to look for when buying your next sunscreen.
4. Iron Oxide
Iron oxide is another inorganic mineral similar to zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. It is also commonly found in mineral-based sunscreens because it can provide a natural tint to the skin and help offset the undesired look of a “white cast.” Iron oxides also serve a dual purpose in sunscreen products because they also help protect against troublesome skin pigment from visible light sources. I personally love iron oxide in my sunscreen ingredients because they give the formula just the right amount of tint without looking too much like makeup. Men also enjoy tinted sunscreens, especially if they have deeper skin tones.
5. Antioxidants
I love antioxidants in skincare products and I love them, even more, when I find them in my sunscreens! Antioxidants are so helpful when used topically for fighting against free radical damage from our environments and are great in combating possible damage from UV rays, too! Astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant found in algae, has been shown to block UV rays as well as maintain skin hydration, and improve irritation and skin texture when exposed to UV rays. Other antioxidants to look for in your sunscreens include green tea extract, aloe vera, pomegranate, and grape seed extract to name a few.
There are my 5 Must-Have Sunscreen Ingredients! I hope this can act as a guide for you the next time you are out shopping for sunscreens. One of my favorite sunscreen brands in Suntegrity, and I highly recommend checking out their product line!
Dr. Dumont is a Licensed Naturopathic Doctor at Coastal Thyme Holistic Skin + Wellness in Portsmouth, NH and specializes in holistic skincare. She offers a complimentary discovery call to learn more about her Naturopathic approach to holistic skincare and wellness. Click here to request your discovery call with Dr. Dumont.
