First and foremost, what are sunscreens? 

Sunscreens are products that contain ingredients that help prevent harmful rays from the sun from entering the skin and causing damage. These rays are known as Ultraviolet Radiation (UV Rays).

Sunscreens are not created equal. As per Skincancer.org, in order to provide enough protection using sunscreens, you must use around 1oz (about a shot glass). It’s important to use a high-quality, pharmaceutical-grade sunscreen to provide the best protection against UV Rays.

Ultraviolet Radiation

There are three forms of UV radiation: UVA, UVB and UVC. UVC is the most harmful of them all but fortunately, our Ozone prevents these rays from reaching our bodies. The other two UV rays do, however, reach through our Ozone and into our skin if left unprotected. 

UVA Rays

These rays have longer wavelengths and can penetrate through the epidermis and into the dermis. We often refer to UVA as our “Aging Rays" since they reach the dermis and begin breaking down collagen and elastin - two essential ingredients for keeping the skin youthful and plump. 

UVB Rays

These rays have shorter wavelengths and can penetrate the epidermis. We often refer to UVB as our “Burning” or “Pigmentation Rays" since they are responsible for creating a sunburn and activating our melanocytes (cells that creates pigment in the skin).

How Sunscreens work

There are two official types of sunscreens: Chemical & Physical 

1. Chemical Sunscreens (organic) absorb into the skin and neutralize UV Rays 
2. Physical Sunscreens (inorganic) lay on the surface of the skin and reflect UV Rays

Chemical and physical sunscreens work together to prevent UVA and UVB rays from penetrating the skin and creating damage. It’s important when selecting a sunscreen that you look for products that contain BOTH chemical and physical protectors. Some sunscreens only protect against UVA or UVB, leaving the skin exposed and susceptible to damage.  

Chemical Sunscreens

These protectors absorb into your skin and allow for even application. Since they are absorbed, they cannot be easily wiped off, allowing full protection. A combination of two or more chemical protectors creates a “broad spectrum” sunscreen that protects your skin against UVA and UVB rays 

Physical Protectors

Fantastic for anyone with sensitive skin, these sunscreens hardly create a skin reaction unless an allergy is involved. The issue with just physical is that they are not absorbed into the skin; rather they sit on the surface, making it easy for them to be wiped off, leaving the skin unprotected.

top glymed SUN CARE products

• Hydrating Protection Gel SPF 15
• Hydrating Protection Gel SPF 30
• Moisturizing Protection Cream SPF 15
• Moisturizing Protection Cream 30