From "broad-spectrum" to "hypoallergenic" to even "avobenzone", there are so many scientific terms used to describe sunscreen and what's inside of it. This dictionary helps you decipher what those words mean and what words you should be seeing on your sunscreen.
Avobenzone
A chemical commonly found in sunscreens that is oil-soluble and protects from UVA sun rays
Broad-Spectrum
Protects from both UVA and UVB sun rays
Chemical
A classification of sunscreens that uses chemical ingredients to absorb and protect from UV rays
Clinically-Tested
Has been tested on a variety of people and approved by dermatologists to be safe for skin
Hypoallergenic
While the term is not regulated by the FDA, it signifies that the formula used has a low potential for causing allergic reactions
Mineral
A classification of sunscreens that uses a mineral-based formula as a physical blocker of UV rays
Noncomedogenic
Is not prone to cause acne
Oil-Free
The product itself does not contain oil
Organic
Contains naturally derived ingredients (although no sunscreen can be 100% organic)
Reef-safe
Contains no ingredients that are harmful to marine life - generally, chemical sunscreens containing avobenzone, oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene have shown to be harmful to coral's ability to reproduce and reduces the chance of fish eggs to survive
Sand-Resistant
Generally smoother and silkier to reduce the likelihood of sand sticking to an individual - there is no standard to this
Sensitive
While fragrance is likely to irritate, mineral sunscreens have shown less irritation and breakouts than chemical sunscreen
SPF
Sun Protection Factor - measures how much skin is protected from solar energy - generally 30 SPF protects from 97% of sun rays, 50 protects from 98%, and 100 SPF protects close to 99% (but is seen more as a marketing ploy)
Sport
Product can be worn for at least 80 minutes before reapplication is needed
UVA/UVB
the different types of sun rays - UVA rays cause damage like collagen breakdowns while UVB rays burn the skin
Vegan
No animal products are used to create the sunscreen
Water-Resistant
Tested by the FDA that a subject can get in and out of water without the product washing away
Zinc-Oxide
A mineral commonly used in sunscreen that can treat and prevent skin rashes while also deflecting UVA and UVB rays
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