Wearing sunscreen to protect yourself and prevent skin cancer is essential, regardless of your skin type or condition. However, with the variety of sunscreen choices, which do you choose? Which kind is best for optimal sun protection: chemical or physical sunscreen? The skincare specialists at Belladerm MedSpa are here to cover the debate: chemical sunscreen vs. physical sunscreen. Continue reading to learn about the pros and cons of each and identify which you should choose for skin protection.

What is Chemical Sunscreen?

Chemical sunscreen is a popular type of sunscreen that protects your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Unlike physical sunscreen, which creates a barrier on the skin’s surface, chemical sunscreen contains ingredients that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat energy, which is then released from the skin. Chemical sunscreen is typically easier to apply and is less visible on the skin compared to physical sunscreen. It also provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, making it an ideal choice for daily use.

Belladerm Chemical Sunscreen Offerings

• SkinMedica Essential Defense Mineral Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 32, Tinted
• SkinMedica Essential Defense Mineral Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 32, Untinted
• Colorescience Face Shield
• Colorescience Face Shield Glow
• iS Clinical Perfect Tint Powder

What is Physical Sunscreen?

Physical sunscreen is a type of sunscreen that works by creating a physical barrier on the surface of the skin to reflect and scatter the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. This type of sunscreen contains active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are natural minerals that form a protective layer on the skin.

Physical sunscreen is often recommended for people with sensitive skin, as it is less likely to cause irritation compared to chemical sunscreen. It’s also effective immediately upon application, providing instant protection against the sun’s rays. It’s important to note that regardless of the type of sunscreen you use, wearing sunscreen daily is crucial to protecting your skin from UV damage and reducing the risk of skin cancer.

Belladerm Offerings

• Revision Skincare Intellishade Original
• Revision Intellishade TruPhysical
• Colorescience All Calm

Which Sunscreen Should I Use?

At Belladerm MedSpa, we understand that choosing between physical and chemical sunscreen can be overwhelming. The truth is that both types of sunscreen can be effective in protecting your skin from UV damage, and the best choice ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to skin irritation, a physical sunscreen may be a better option for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a lightweight, easy-to-apply option, chemical sunscreen may be a better fit.

Regardless of which type of sunscreen you choose, the most important thing is that you wear it every day to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, our skincare specialists are here to help you make the best choice for your skin with a complimentary consultation.

Don’t forget that May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, so make sure to spread the word! This month you can get 15% off any Belladerm MedSpa sunscreen to help keep your skin safe and healthy.

The warm weather is right around the corner and with it, the sun’s harmful UV rays which can cause damage and premature aging. Don’t be afraid to show a bit of skin, but make sure to protect it. That doesn’t mean you have to stay inside or lather on the heavy foundation but it may be time to change up your summer skin care routine. If you prepare your skin now, you can show off your bare-faced, beautiful complexion all season long. Read on for our top 5 ways to prep skin for summer.

Medical Cosmetics and Sunscreen

Our skin is the most exposed organ to harmful stressors during the summer. You should proactively defend it with high-grade medical cosmetics including moisturizers, serums, and eye creams, for your daily morning and evening routines. And don’t forget the sunscreen – the single, most important product to use during the sunny summer months. Belladerm carries a variety of top product lines to keep you protected and looking your best year-round:

• The SkinMedica® aesthetic product line includes repairing creams and sunscreen formulated to restore the skin and promote self-healing.
• iS Clinical® serums improve complexion and provide antioxidant protection.
• Colorescience®  offers non-chemical sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays throughout the day.
• Epionce® toners, cleansers, and sunscreen keep your skin clean, refreshed, and protected.

Facials

Facials are an effective way to detoxify the skin, promote blood circulation, lower stress, treat acne, and help repair sun damage. They can even encourage collagen production and give you a smoother, more even skin tone. Belladerm offers a wide range of facial services to keep your skin healthy and glowing throughout the season. Here’s a few of our favorites:

• The Bella Classic Corrective and Gentlemen’s Executive™ defend against environmental aggressors, reduce imperfections, and feel amazing at the same time.
• Our specialized HydraFacial™ exfoliates to clear away imperfections like sun damage, blackheads, whiteheads, enlarged pores, acne, brown spots, uneven skin tone, and wrinkles. This four-in-one treatment uses a variety of revolutionary serums and is great for oily or acne-prone skin.

BOTOX®

If you’ve been squinting in the sun and are struggling with frown lines, crow’s feet, or deep forehead wrinkles, consider BOTOX®. This treatment only takes a few minutes and is performed by our highly skilled injection specialists. With BOTOX®, you won’t have to worry about those lines getting deeper.

Fillers

In the summer, your levels of hyaluronic acid (HA) may decrease the more you are in the sun. HA is a naturally occurring substance in your body that retains water, giving you plumper, softer, and smoother skin. Skip the highlighting and opt for a non-surgical face lift with our dermal fillers, which replace the HA you have lost over the years.

Microneedling

Microneedling is the perfect treatment for busy summer schedules. It’s quick and versatile, treating a variety of skin issues from hyperpigmentation and scars to sun damage and stretch marks. The more skin is exposed to the sun, the less collagen it produces. Microneedling increases the production of collagen, making your skin look and act younger. Best of all? It’s not just for the face; treatments can be applied to the neck, arms, hands, legs, abdomen, and back.

Your skin is your body’s largest organ. Make sure it’s protected this summer with proven, effective skin care products and treatments from Belladerm MedSpa. Our expert aestheticians can recommend the best brands and services that align with your desired goals and outcomes. Request an appointment or contact us to learn more.

Summer is almost here, which means more time outdoors and increased sun exposure. It’s a well-known fact – sunscreen is essential for preventing premature aging, including wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin. But did you know that regular use of sunscreen can reduce your risk of developing certain types of skin cancer by as much as 50 percent? Read on as we discuss the benefits of sunscreen and the importance of including it as part of your overall sun protection strategy.

Who Needs Sunscreen?

The answer is not surprising: everyone. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, it’s estimated that one out of every five people will develop some type of skin cancer in their lifetime. While skin cancer can affect anyone regardless of age, using sunscreen regularly can help protect you from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays and decrease your risk.

When Should I Apply Sunscreen?

Sunscreen should be applied every day, even when it’s cloudy outside. On overcast days, 80 percent of the sun’s UV radiation can reach the earth. Venturing outside unprotected increases your risk of premature aging and skin damage. Once you apply your sunscreen, it’s best to wait 15-30 minutes before going outside to allow it to penetrate the skin. The average adult should apply enough to cover the body – about one ounce. And don’t forget the tops of your feet, hands, ears, and lips.

Choosing a Sunscreen that’s Right for You

When it comes to choosing the right protection, it’s all about SPF. SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is the number that indicates how long the sun’s UVB rays would take to redden the skin relative to time spent exposed to the sun without sunscreen. For example, if you use an SPF 30, it would take you 30 times longer to burn than if you used no protection. So, how do you select a sunscreen that’s right for you? According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, the best sunscreen is one that is water resistant and has broad spectrum coverage (one that protects against both UVA and UVB rays) with an SPF of 15 or higher. All sunscreens with SPF 15 or higher are required by law to provide broad spectrum protection. As the SPF increases, so does the magnitude of protection against harmful UVA/UVB radiation. Check the label before you buy to ensure your sunscreen provides this level of protection. If you’re working outdoors for an extended period of time or engaged in higher levels of activity such as running or swimming, select an SPF of at least 30. Be sure to reapply every two hours and immediately after swimming or sweating excessively.

Other Factors to Consider

While frequent and consistent use of sunscreen can reduce your overall risk for skin cancer and premature aging, there are other factors to consider to protect your skin, such as:
• Family history – Your skin type and genetic predisposition will determine the level of protection that’s right for you.
• Photosensitivity – Certain medications and/or disorders can increase your sensitivity to light, raising the required level of protection.
• Underlying skin conditions – There are many sunscreens to chose from depending on your skin type, condition such as dry or oily, and level of sensitivity.
It’s important to remember that sunscreen alone isn’t enough to protect your skin from sun damage. It’s advisable to limit your time in the sun, seek out shaded areas whenever possible, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and don UV-protective sunglasses and clothing.

The trusted experts at Belladerm MedSpa can help you develop a sun protection strategy that’s right for you. We offer a full suite of quality skincare products that protect and nourish your skin for a healthy, youthful glow all year round. Call us for a free consultation or visit us online.