What’s the difference between UK sunblock and

US sunblock?

The main difference between UK ( this goes for Asian sunscreens as well ) and US sunscreen is the chemicals used to protect against UVA/UVB rays and the lack of chemical protection against UVA rays in the US. The chemicals used in Europe are known to have better protection against UVA rays. According to Environmental Working Group British researcher Brian Diffey tested four SPF 50 sunscreens from the US and four SPF 50 sunscreens from the UK and found that the US sunscreens let about three times more UVA rays through over its European competitors.

What Are UVA and UVB Rays?

There are two different types of rays. Long wave ultraviolet A (UVA) and short wave ultraviolet B (UVB). UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and affects cells far below the surface. They are responsible for premature skin aging. UVB rays are what physically burns your skin. Both aid in the potential for skin cancer.  Avobenzone  and Oxybenzone are the most common UVA chemical protectants in the US and are not very photostable ( it breaks down in the sun easily ). Oxybenzone and Octocrylene we’re banned due to harming coral reefs.

Why do they use different chemicals?

The US is behind in the sunscreen industry and the FDA has not yet approved chemicals used over seas. For this reason, they cannot be used by American brands. The FDA has lower standards compared to Europe when it comes to UVA protection. Though these chemicals have gone through testing and were approved to be used up to 10% concentration safely by Europe. ( according to www.EWG.org )

What to look for in a good sunscreen

When you can, try looking for a sunscreen that gives a combo of both physical and chemical protection. Especially on days you plan on having heavy sun exposure. Physical sunscreens ( zinc oxide and titanium oxide ) work by physically sitting on your skin and instantly protecting your skin against UVA/UVB rays. Physical sunblocks provide good protection against both UVA/UVB but it is more easily wiped off since it works by sitting on top of your skin. Chemical sunscreens work by a chemical reaction occurring and they absorb more deeply into your skin which is why they are more pleasant to wear. It takes time for the chemical reaction to occur, which is why it tells you on the label to apply so many minutes before sun exposure. Chemical sunscreens also do not just wipe off like physical sunscreens since they absorb deeper into the skin.

But Is chemical sunscreen bad for you?

I used to be all on board the all natural train. But then things became extreme and I’m not an extremest. With conflicting data on every other blog post you read, one minute you’re messing up your hormones and the next you’re being convinced there isn’t any studies that actually prove that. I believe in moderation. While I absolutely believe some chemical sunscreens should not be used ( spray sunscreens that contain oxybenzone are among the worst) I also think there are a few things you have to  consider. It all depends on what’s important to you and how you feel personally. For me, extensive UVA/UVB coverage, wearability, and limiting certain chemical sunscreens is where I fall. While you won’t catch me buying spray sunscreens, I’m also not going to sacrifice wearability. Chemical sunscreens are so much more wearable, especially if you’re wearing it everyday like we all should be.

I have SPF in my make up, do I really need to wear additional SPF?

The answer is YES! According to webMD,

Dermatologist Leslie Baumann, MD, says falling for the spf in makeup will hurt you in the long run.

“Makeup does not provide enough coverage,” she says. “You need seven times the normal amount of foundation and 14 times the normal amount of powder to get the sun protection factor on the label. No one does this.”

I’m guilty of this myself. I thought having any amount of spf on my face meant I’m good to go, but that is anything but the truth. Don’t dwell on all the years you haven’t been wearing the proper amount of spf, look forward to the years ahead where you’ll be properly protected.

Why wearing SPF is so important

Skin experts have been shouting from the roof tops for ions about how important it is to wear sunscreen everyday even in the winter months. I feel like it’s kind of like flossing your teeth, we know how important it is yet it slips down on our list of priorities or we just forget.

Just like not flossing leads to tooth decay and cavities, not wearing sunscreen leads to premature aging, wrinkles, and an increased risk for skin cancer.

Where to buy European sunscreen in the US?

In America, you can buy directly from the UK Amazon site and they will ship to you for a reasonable shipping fee. I have done the research and linked European sunscreens from the UK Amazon below.  The currency will be in EUR but will convert to USD once you head to check out.

What are the best European sunscreens under makeup?

In the list below, I will mention if the sunscreen is suitable to wear under makeup.

What are the best European sunscreens for oily skin?

Bioderma Photoderm 

This one is great for people with skin on the oilier side. Their dry touch formula controls oil throughout the day and is good under makeup. Bioderma has both physical and chemical spf protection. This one is also good for very sensitive skin.

Altruist Dermatologist 

Their SPF 30 is better for oiler skin types. Altruist has both physical and chemical spf protection. This one is designed for sensitive skin types and is paraben, fragrance free and is hypoallergenic.  It has a tendency for piling with excessive rubbing of the skin, so this one might not be the greatest choice under heavy makeup.

What are the best European sunscreens for normal skin?

Ultrasun

Ultrasun is a great moisturizer and non greasy formula. It is great under makeup and for very sensitive skin types.

Anessa

This is actually an Asain sunscreen but has great reviews! It can be worn under makeup and is especially good for hot days.

What are the best European sunscreens for dry skin?

Sunsense Ultra

This one has a slight tint when worn alone or can be worn under makeup. It has both chemical and physical spf protection and is moisturizing with a matt finish. Lots of great reviews on Amazon.

Bioderma Hydrabio perfecteur

Great for people for dry sensitive skin. This one is more hydrating leaving a dewy complexion. Can be worn under makeup.

Altruist

Their spf 50 is good for normal to dry skin types. Altruist has both physical and chemical spf protection. This one is designed for sensitive skin types and is paraben, fragrance free and is hypoallergenic.  It has a tendency for piling with excessive rubbing of the skin, so this one might not be the greatest choice under heavy makeup.