Not All Sunscreens are Created Equally

With the significant rise in skin cancers and melanoma detected since the beginning on lockdown and each summer bringing new record breaking heat, we stress the importance of wearing staying safe in the sun.

There are different ways to stay safe in the sun as we head into summer, whether wide brimmed hat, seeking regular shelter in the shade, avoiding peak times such as midday and early afternoon sun....but above all, the basic necessity of wearing sunscreen to protect our skin and scalp against the dangers of UV damage.

There are two major types of sunscreen - mineral and chemical. These different types tackle UV rays differently and when it comes to high heat these differences are important to understand.

Highland Trichology largely prefers mineral sunscreen as it behaves better in high heat and forms a protective barrier on the skin and scalp that deflects the heat and rays away, whilst chemical sunscreen coverts this into heat before absorbing it. Mineral sunscreen can be quite thick, not always a desirable feeling but the increase in nano-particles is turning a corner for the uptake in these superior options. That, and there is much study yet to be done in the effects long term of absorbing chemical sunscreens into the body and the conversions that they do on the skin whilst absorbing the heat and UV rays. With the increase in understanding on commonly known hair product ingredients such as silicones, parabens, sulphates and phenoxyethanol being recognised as endocrine disruptors and potentially carcinogenic with prolonged use in those vulnerable, there is much homework yet to be done on these mysterious chemical sunscreens.

Aim to wear at least a shot full of sunscreen and reapply every 2-4hrs if you are unable to avoid the sun. Choose an SPF factor of at least SPF30, preferrably SPF50 for those with more sensitive skin including children and the elderly or if you have a history of burning easily. Store your sunscreen in a cool, dry place out of heavy sun. Remember to reapply, even if the product says it is suitable all day - we sweat, we swim, we rub our skin. Stay out of the sun if you already have sunburn, stay hydrated and consider medical advice.

But wear them we shall. For those with allergies or sensitivities to ingredients it is best to avoid harmful UV rays, wear protective clothing and be careful. This includes those with thinner skin due to age or extended topical steroid cream or lotion use of scalp conditions.

Whilst Vitamin D is the Sunshine Vitamin that plays a crucial part in our immune system and hormone alignment, speak to your medical professional to see whether you may be able to supplement where diet is not effective.

The takeaway? Avoid high heat and intense peak periods of full midday sun, wear protective clothing, stay hydrated and consider a mineral sunscreen. If going out in the sun opt for early morning is possible, to allow the body exposure to Vitamin D for around 20 mins if safe to do so. Stay safe.