May is getting warmer and the sunlight is also starting to become stronger. When you enter a store to buy sunscreen, you may be confused by the various types of sunscreen. You might wonder, “What do chemicalsunscreen and physical-sunscreen mean?” or “What do SPF and -PA mean?” and then think “What should I buy?” Therefore, the Pharos will help you choose a suitable sunscreen by delivering some useful information.

First of all, chemical-sunscreen and physical-sunscreen refer to the composition material. Chemical-sunscreens block ultraviolet rays through a chemical reaction. Because of the chemical reaction, it may be harmful for the skin. Also, it does not dissolve well in water and because of this it blocks pores; fine dust absorption is also often blocked. Because there is a blocking effect after a certain amount of time, it is better to put it on before you go out. It is essential to cleanse your face well because it is hard to wash off. If you will be outside for a long time, buying a chemical-sunscreen is effective for you. A physicalsunscreen has the effect of reflecting ultraviolet rays by forming a physical shield. Usually, it does not have harmful elements and it can be washed off by water easily. As soon as you put it on, the protective effect begins because a physical-sunscreen has a way of reflecting ultraviolet rays by forming a shield. However, it is not absorbed by the skin. It is good for people who have sensitive skin and babies. Recently, mixed sunscreens which are both chemical-sunscreens and physical-sunscreens have been developed. Therefore, choose the sunscreen that you need.

 Next, what is SPF? SPF indicates the power of the suncreesn to block ultraviolet rays, which can burn skin. SPF1 has ultraviolet ray protection for 15 minutes. In the case of SPF35, it has ultraviolet ray protection for about 9 hours. However, the higher the number, the greater the effect on skin. Therefore, a high number is not always good for skin. If you have sensitive skin, you should use a suncreen with an SPF of less than 30. Also, it is better to use an SPF sunscreen of less than 30 if you are not very active outside.

Now, what is the PA? PA also indicates the blocking power of a sunscreen with regard to ultraviolet rays which cause skin aging. Generally, the ‘+’ symbol indicates that the ultraviolet ray blocking power is increased by two to four times. The higher the number of ‘+’s, the greater the protection from ultraviolet rays. In daily life, one ‘+’ is suitable, but it is better to choose ‘++’ or ‘+++’ if you will be outside for a long time. Just like SPF, a sunscreen with more ‘+’s is not always good for the skin. Therefore, people who have sensitive skin should use a low level product.

There are other warnings regarding the use of sunscreen besides ones related to the composition material. Generally, after a sunscreen is opened, you have to use with in 12 months. In addition, sunscreen is more effective if you put it on over and over again thinly. Now, you can choose a suitable sunscreen because you know something about the sunscreen’s composition material and precautions you should take. Don’t forget that it is better to use sunscreen every day, not just in the summer. Why don’t you start by choosing a suitable sunscreen to protect your skin? 

74th Cub Reporter Lee joo-haeng - silkyshine@naver.com