Sunscreen's, part 1: let's get physical

via

Ok, so I've got a lot of information on sunscreens (because it is that time of year, after all) but I'll be honest: I've been really hesitant about posting it because it's a lot of information. So I'll just forewarn you now that I've got three different posts about this topic, so hang in there with me- I think it's worth it :)

Did you know there are two types of sunscreen, physical or chemical? When someone asks me to recommend a good sunscreen I typically ask them which type of sunscreen they prefer and they look at my like I just asked them directions to the moon.

Sunscreen companies and the Skin Cancer Foundation are great at educating the general public on the necessity for sunscreen because of how harmful the suns rays are. But the type of sunscreen you use is the difference between you loving and hating sunscreen. If applying sunscreen is a chore, than maybe you haven't found the right kind.

When you look at a sunscreen label it will always tell you what the Active Ingredient is, and the Active Ingredient determines whether the sunscreen is a physical or a chemical one. I summed up some of the info from skinacea so that you could see the differences between the two types of sunscreen.:

And here's an example of what to look for on sunscreen packaging. Just like for acne products, sunscreens also list the active ingredient. 

So, now that you know the differences between the two, here are some great physical sunscreens for your face and body:

Physical Sunscreens for the FACE:

Peter Thomas Roth // CeraVe // Clarins // Josie Maran // Juice Beauty

Physical Sunscreens for the BODY:

Dr. Dennis Gross // JASON // The Honest Co. // Sunology // Badger

Physical sunscreens have come a long way. They used to be super thick and chalky, but with the current technology, they've been able to micronize the minerals so they're not leaving you with a ghostly pallor. I think only physical sunscreens should be used on babies, since no one wants chemicals absorbing into that sweet, soft baby skin. I also love that the instant you apply a physical sunscreen, it's working right away. Although chemical sunscreens have their advantages too...

Check back tomorrow for my recommendations on chemical sunscreens, and then on Wednesday will be my recommendations for some combined products.