Posted on 30th Aug 2011 @ 12:06 PM

Q: Sunscreen or a sunblock? What is the difference between these two?

A: Sunscreens penetrate the skin and perform a series of chemical reactions absorbing UV rays and producing heat and free radicals. This combination of toxic ingredients and free radical generating “sunscreens” used in conventional sun protection products could possibly explain the steep rise in skin cancer these days. More people today get skin cancer despite heavy use of sunscreens. Worldwide, the greatest rise in melanoma has been experienced in countries where chemical sunscreens have been heavily promoted. Sunscreen ingredients penetrate the blood circulation to spread the toxic load across the body.

Physical sunblocks

Physical sunscreens are good blockers of both UVA and UVB radiation. They reflect the UV rays instead of absorbing them inside the skin.

Two most common physical blockers of UV radiation are titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Both minerals filter UVA as well as UVB light, giving broad protection from damaging UV radiation. However, we decided not to use titanium oxide after the review of scientific literature that indicated potential toxicity of this ingredient.

Ounce Of Prevention sun protection products contain pure zinc oxide in concentration 12-17%. Zinc oxide has mild healing properties and is safe for use even in small children and in chemically sensitized skin. Thanks to its naturally antibacterial and soothing effect, it can encourage healing of skin blemishes and irritations.

Nanoparticles in sunscreens

Ideally, you should seek a zinc oxide sunscreen that is nanoparticle-free. Most often zinc oxide leaves a whitish cast on the face, but if you cleverly mix it with thin oils, it does not produce white residue on the skin. At Petite Marie Organics' OUNCE OF PREVENTION Mineral Anti-Aging Sun Cream SPF 30+ we only use non-micronized zinc oxide, and thanks to the innovative process of blending zinc oxide with carrier oils and emulsifiers it is virtually invisible on the skin. All your skin needs in the summer to stay healthy is a good natural sunscreen or a sunblock.

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