sunscreen

Sunscreen is used to prevent our skin from burning from sunlight radiation (UV-A and UV-B rays). Most sunscreens combine organic and inorganic ingredients to produce the highest level of SPF (Sun Protection Factor).  Both organic and inorganic ingredients protect against UV-B rays that burn the skin, while some offer protection from UV-A rays, the rays that do more long term damage. UV-B rays are between 280 and 320 nm range and UV-A rays are between 320 to 400 nm range. The inorganic sunscreen lotions contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide which are used to scatter and reflect the UV rays. The organic sunsceens usually include octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC), 4-methylbenzylidene camphor (4-MBC), oxybenzone, avobenzone, and homosalate. These are used to absorb the UV light and dispel it as heat.


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