The Skincare Step You’ll Regret Skipping

Even though we are well into fall semester and summer break feels like a distant memory, the temperature still feels like we should be laying on a beach sipping on a fruity drink. It can be hard to remember to incorporate sunscreen into your daily skincare routine when you aren’t spending every day at the pool, however, even a 10-minute walk to class can have significant impacts on your skin. So, what’s the best sunscreen to use? It’s tempting to run to the nearest corner store and grab the cheapest product on the shelf, however there are multiple reasons why you should put more thought and money into your decision. First, there are different types of sunscreen- and yes, the difference matters.

The two types of sunscreen are chemical and physical based. Chemical sunscreen works by absorbing UV rays so they cannot damage your skin. On the other hand, physical sunscreen, also known as mineral sunscreen, creates a tangible barrier that essentially reflects the UV rays from the skin. So, which is better? There are pros and cons to each: mineral sunscreen can leave more of a white ghosty layer on the skin, however evidence shows it is more effective in protecting skin from sun damage than chemical sunscreen. Additionally, Mineral sunscreen is better for the environment because it uses natural ingredients like Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide rather than chemicals. We did some research to find a sunscreen that could be easily incorporated into an everyday skincare routine. Here is a guide to help you find the perfect sunscreen for your needs whether it be for acne sensitivity, eco-friendliness or the highest UV protection- we are here to break it down for you.