Organic (Chemical) Sunscreen

Main

Organic sunscreens, also known as chemical sunscreens, are a type of sun protection that uses carbon-based compounds called organic UV filters to absorb and filter out UV radiation. These sunscreens work by absorbing UV light and converting it into heat, which is then released from the skin. The main active ingredients in organic sunscreens are organic UV filters, such as avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone.

Organic sunscreens are available in various forms, including lotions, sprays, and gels, and are often used in combination with other skincare or cosmetic products, such as moisturizers and foundations. Organic sunscreens are often preferred in cosmetic formulations because they have traditionally been more lightweight, easier to spread, and less likely to leave a white cast on the skin compared to mineral sunscreens. However, advancements in mineral sunscreen formulations have reduced these differences in recent years.

The effectiveness of an organic sunscreen is measured by its Sun Protection Factor (SPF). While organic sunscreens are generally considered safe and effective, some studies have raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with certain organic UV filters, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. These concerns include possible endocrine disruption and skin irritation. However, more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of these ingredients. It is important to note that the regular use of sunscreen, along with other sun protection measures, can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.

Terms

• Avobenzone: An organic UV filter that absorbs UVA rays, which are associated with premature skin aging and skin cancer. It is often combined with other UV filters for broad-spectrum protection.

• Octinoxate: An organic UV filter that absorbs UVB rays, which are the primary cause of sunburn. It is commonly used in combination with other UV filters.

• Organic chemistry: The study of carbon-based compounds and their reactions. Organic UV filters used in sunscreens are derived from organic chemistry principles.

• Oxybenzone: An organic UV filter commonly used in sunscreens to absorb UVA and UVB rays. It is effective but controversial due to potential health and environmental concerns.

• Skin cancer: A type of cancer that develops in the cells of the skin, often caused by excessive exposure to UV radiation. The most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

• SPF (Sun Protection Factor): A measure of how well a sunscreen protects the skin from UVB rays. The higher the SPF value, the greater the protection.

• Sunscreen: A product applied to the skin to protect it from the harmful effects of UV radiation. Sunscreens can be organic (chemical) or mineral (physical) based on their active ingredients.

• UV filters: Chemical compounds that absorb or reflect UV radiation to protect the skin. Organic UV filters are carbon-based, while inorganic UV filters are mineral-based.

• UV radiation: Ultraviolet radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. It is divided into three categories: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVA and UVB rays can cause skin damage, premature aging, and skin cancer.

Analogy

Organic sunscreens are like tiny sponges that soak up UV light before it can damage your skin. Just as a sponge absorbs water and prevents it from spreading, organic UV filters absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, preventing it from penetrating the skin. For instance, imagine a sponge placed on a wet surface – it will absorb the water, leaving the surface dry.

Misconception

Many people believe that "organic" in the context of sunscreens means that the product is made with natural or organically farmed ingredients. However, in this case, "organic" refers to the chemical structure of the UV filters, which are carbon-based. This misconception can lead people to assume that organic sunscreens are always safer or more environmentally friendly than mineral sunscreens, which is not necessarily true. For example, someone might choose an "organic" sunscreen thinking it is all-natural, when in fact it contains synthetic chemical UV filters.

History

1. 1920s: The first commercial sunscreen, containing benzyl salicylate and benzyl cinnamate, is developed.

2. 1940s: Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) becomes a popular UV filter in sunscreens.

3. 1980s: Oxybenzone and avobenzone are introduced as effective organic UV filters.

4. 1990s: Concerns emerge about the potential health and environmental impacts of some organic UV filters.

5. 2000s-present: Ongoing research and development of new organic UV filters with improved safety profiles and broader UV protection. Increased awareness and debate about the safety and environmental impact of organic UV filters, leading to the development of alternative sun protection methods and products.

How to use it

1. Daily moisturizer with SPF: Apply a lightweight, organic sunscreen-containing moisturizer every morning as part of your daily skincare routine. This will provide a base level of sun protection for everyday activities.

2. Beach day: Before heading out to the beach, apply a water-resistant, broad-spectrum organic sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Be sure to apply enough (about 1 ounce for the entire body) and reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.

3. Outdoor sports: When engaging in outdoor activities like running or playing sports, use a sweat-resistant, organic sunscreen formula that won't sting your eyes. Apply it generously to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, and any exposed scalp areas.

Facts

• The FDA requires that active ingredients in sunscreens be listed on the label, but does not mandate the use of the terms "mineral" or "chemical" (organic).

• Organic UV filters can protect against a wider range of UV wavelengths compared to mineral UV filters, providing more comprehensive protection.

• Some organic UV filters, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, have been banned in certain locations due to their potential impact on coral reefs.

• Many sunscreens contain a combination of both organic and mineral UV filters to provide broad-spectrum protection and optimize the formula's texture and performance.

• Regular use of sunscreen has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of skin cancers, including squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Some studies have found risk reductions of up to 40% for squamous cell carcinoma and up to 50% for melanoma with consistent sunscreen use.