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Sunscreen Types
Sunscreen is a general term. A sunscreen simply means any product which saves us from UV radiation, if we apply it on our body. While many people often mix the terminology of sunscreen and sunblock, there really is a technical difference between the two. A true sunscreen is a chemical agent that denatures the light, making the wavelengths incapable of causing damage. Sunblocks act as a physical wall to prevent sunlight from reaching the skin.
Chemical Screens:
These are aromatic compounds which absorb photons of light energy and transform high energy UV radiation into harmless long wave radiation. This avoids or minimizes sunburn. Commonly used chemical sunscreens are PABA (Para Amino Benzoic Acid), Anthranilates, Benzophenones, Camphor derivatives, Cinnamates, Dibenzoylmethanes and Salicylates.
Physical Blocks:
These blocks reflect and scatter the sun light, and decrease the dermal penetration of UV rays. Eg. Titanium dioxide, Magnesium oxide, Zinc oxide, Red petrolatum, Kaolin, etc.
Mixtures:
Many sunscreen products contain a mixture of these two properties. If you have contact dermatitis allergies, eczema or sensitive skin, you should prefer to use the true physical blockers.
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