Whats the difference between physical and chemical sunscreens? Are chemical sunscreens safe?
In a nutshell, physical sunscreens protect skin by reflecting light, whereas chemical sunscreens protect skin by absorbing radiation and then dissipating it safely. Yes, chemical sunscreens are safe and undergo rigorous testing before they are allowed on the market. They are absorbed by the skin and secreted in the urine, however, versus physical sunscreens that stay on the skin’s surface. As a result, women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should avoid chemical sunscreens, and I recommend using physical sunscreen on children under five. Physical sunscreens are also an excellent option if you have sensitive skin or simply prefer to avoid chemical products. But if I wear sunscreen, aren’t I missing important opportunities to naturally produce vitamin D? All of you who pointed out the importance of vitamin D are absolutely right, and recent studies have indeed suggested that we may not be getting enough of it. However, please be aware that the amount of sun exposure required to boost v
