The days are getting longer, and with them our desire to enjoy the sun. But protecting your skin should never come at the expense of your health or the planet. Some sunscreens still contain controversial substances suspected of being carcinogenic or harmful to the oceans. Here's a clear guide to choosing the right sunscreen.
1. Why is it essential to protect yourself, and against what?
Unprotected sun exposure significantly increases the risk of premature aging, pigment spots and, above all, skin cancers, including melanoma.
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are divided into three types:
- UVC : blocked by the ozone layer.
- UVB : reach the epidermis, cause sunburn.
- UVA : penetrates more deeply, responsible for skin aging and the risk of cancer.
UVB:
- Represent about 5% of UV rays
- Responsible for sunburn
- Their intensity varies according to the time and the season
UVA:
- Represent 95% of UV rays
- Penetrate deep into the dermis
- Responsible for premature aging
- Present all year round, even through windows or clouds
A good sunscreen must therefore protect against both UVA and UVB rays .
SPF (Sun Protection Factor):
SPF , or Sun Protection Factor, is a European index that indicates the level of protection of a sunscreen against UVB rays.
| SPF | Percentage of UVB blocked | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| 15 | About 93% | Low exposure |
| 30 | About 97% | Moderate exposure |
| 50 | About 98% | High exposure, light skin |
| 50+ | More than 98% | Children, sensitive skin, areas with strong sunlight |
Please note: SPF does not correspond to a duration of protection. You must reapply the cream every 2 hours, after swimming or if you sweat. The "UVA surrounded by a circle" indication guarantees sufficient protection against UVA rays (at least 1/3 of the SPF).
2. How do sunscreens work?
There are two main types of UV filters:
Chemical (organic) filters
- Absorb UV rays and convert them into heat
- Some are suspected of being endocrine disruptors or harmful to the environment.
Mineral (inorganic) filters
- Act like a mirror: reflect UV rays
- Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide
- Better tolerated by sensitive skin
- Less harmful to marine ecosystems if they are not in the form of nanoparticles
3. How to choose the right sunscreen?
A. Ingredients to avoid
- Oxybenzone (benzophenone-3): suspected of disrupting the hormonal system
- Octinoxate (ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate): potentially toxic to fertility
- Octocrylene : can transform into benzophenone, a potentially carcinogenic substance
- Homosalate
- Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂) : classified as a possible carcinogen by inhalation
- Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles
Nanoparticles are also harmful to the oceans: they pollute corals, disrupt aquatic fauna and accumulate in living organisms.
B. The right criteria to look for
- Broad spectrum protection: against UVA and UVB
- Non-nano mineral filters : “non-nano” on the label
- Without controversial chemical filters
- Alcohol and fragrance free : ideal for sensitive skin and children
- Prefer creams to sprays : to avoid accidental inhalation
Additional tips: Complete protection with protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Avoid exposure between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. Never expose babies and young children to direct sunlight.
4. Protect your skin from the inside: the often forgotten step
Skin health also depends on what we consume. A diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants supports skin elasticity and regeneration.
Antioxidant vitamins (C, E, A)
- Vitamin C : stimulates collagen, improves elasticity, reduces wrinkles
- Vitamin E : protects cells and reduces pigment spots
- Vitamin A : promotes cell renewal and fights imperfections
B vitamins
- B3 (niacinamide) : improves elasticity, strengthens the skin barrier
- B5 (pantothenic acid) : regenerates and hydrates
- B7 (biotin) : essential for skin, hair and nails
Collagen
Essential for strengthening skin structure, reducing signs of aging and stimulating cell regeneration.
In conclusion
Taking care of your skin isn't just about applying sunscreen. It's a comprehensive, conscious, and preventative approach that involves choosing a product that respects your health and the environment, as well as a holistic approach to beauty. By combining effective sun protection, sensible sun exposure habits, and nutrition rich in antioxidants and collagen, you give your skin every chance of remaining youthful, healthy, and radiant.
Daily Energy® is a 100% Arabica coffee, enriched with vitamins (C, E, A, B) and collagen to help you preserve your youthful capital naturally. Because beautiful skin also starts from the inside.
