Sunscreens for Warmer Weather

SunscreensSunscreens are designed to protect against sunburn (UVB rays) and generally provide little protection against UVA rays. UVA rays have a depressing effect on the immune system, and are therefore a "setup" for other dermatological problems such as rosacea.

Sunscreens come in two forms:

Chemical sunscreens contain chemicals such as benzophenone or oxybenzone (benzophenone-3) as the active ingredient. They prevent sunburn by absorbing the ultraviolet (UVB) rays. Most chemical sunscreens contain from 2 to 5% of benzophenone or its derivatives (oxybenzone, benzophenone-3) as their active ingredient. Benzophenone is one of the most powerful free radical general known to science. It is used in industrial processes to initiate chemical reactions and promote cross-linking. Benzophenone is activated by ultraviolet light. The absorbed energy breaks benzophenone's double bond to produce two free radical sites. Most chemical sunscreens cause various degrees of redness and sensitivity to rosacea sufferers.

Physical sunscreens contain ingredients such as zinc oxide, sodium chloride, magnesium stearate, polyethylene glycol, iron oxide and sulfur. These physical sunscreens are topical and do not penetrate the skin. They work by reflecting the ultraviolet (UVA and UVB) rays away from the skin. These physical natural minerals as a sunscreen are preferable for rosacea sufferers. Also, you can get further sun protection by applying the chemical sunscreen over the physical sunscreen, which helps to keep the skin from being irritated by the chemical sunscreen.