Sunscreen: how to choose?

Radiation ultraviolet (UV) represents just over 5% of the total radiation we receive from our Sun at sea level. Yet its effects on our health can be devastating.

So the UV radiation carries enoughenergy to break some chemical bonds Between atoms of carbon but also between carbon atoms and atoms ofhydrogen or oxygen. Hence the possible appearance of mutations genetic or of melanomas skin. This is why health authorities recommend that we protect ourselves when we are exposed to the sun.

Let us remember first of all that a sunscreen effective goes, of course, through theapplication a good sunscreen, but, above all, by wearing suitable sunglasses and a T-shirt with colors not too bright, to protect the upper body, as well as through moderate exposure, with a preference for the time slots before 11 a.m. and after 4 p.m., when the intensity of the sun is lower.

What is the best sunscreen?

There are different types of molecules which protect our skin from UV radiation:

• Chemical — or organic — filters absorb radiation and transform it into heat. In sunscreens, several of these molecules (benzophenes, aminobenzoates) are often combined to obtain effective protection. The problem is that these filters penetrate theepidermis and can thus be the cause ofallergies. The problem is also that the mode of action of these filters makes them subject to degradation over time. Not only do they only start to act 20 to 30 minutes after application, but you also have to reapply very regularly.
• Filters minerals — or inorganic — constitute veritable screens interposed between the radiation and our skin. These molecules (oxide of zinc Where titanium dioxide essentially) do not penetrate the skin; they are therefore often found in sun creams for children or for sensitive skins. Especially since they last longer than creams based on chemical filters.

Despite their differences, the two types of filters are equally effective and your choice will be dictated more by the comfort of application, which remains subjective.

Sunscreen: ANSM recommendations

ANSM, the National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products (formerly Afssaps), has established recommendations very precise in matter of solar products. ” To simplify the comparison between products and facilitate consumer choice, four levels of sun protection are defined:

• Low (corresponding to sun protection factors [FPS] displayed from 6 and 10);
• Medium (displayed FPS ratings of 15, 20 and 25;
• High (displayed FPS ratings of 30 and 50);
• Very High (displayed FPS index of 50+). »

Thus, your first instinct will be to choose your sun protection according to the characteristics of your skin. And, more exactly, according to your phototype. But also depending on the exposure conditions.

As for the texture of your sun protection, do not choose it at random either. There are face creams, creams for dry skin, etc. For lips and nose in particular, prefer a stick. Oily skin will prefer light textures, in spray or gel. For children, who spend a lot of time in the water, opt for protections waterproof, without forgetting to renew them… every 20 minutes. In any case, ask your pharmacist.

Finally, it should be noted that products labeled “total screen” (index 50+) are generally mixed sunscreens, which contain both chemical filters and mineral filters. But let’s remember once and for all that the terms “total screen” and “total protection” are considered misleading. Moreover, according to the European Commission, they should no longer be used.