No matter what type of skin you have, sun protection is an absolute must. That said, if you’re coping with a skin condition like vitiligo – which causes areas of pigmentation loss and makes you even more vulnerable – it’s even more important. However, it’s also vital that you choose the right kind of sun protection. But what is the best sunscreen for the job?
That’s our focus here, as we take a look at what you should be looking for when trying to find the best option for skin that’s affected in this way.
The Best Sunscreen for Vitiligo Is Gentle
Perhaps the most important thing to look for in sun protection for vitiligo is gentleness. That’s why the best sunscreen in this scenario is going to be mineral-based. Typically containing super-gentle ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, they’re much less likely to irritate the skin like some chemical brands might.
Something else that makes these mineral sunscreens even gentler is that they don’t have to be absorbed. Instead, they sit on top of the skin and act as a barrier, meaning that the sun’s rays never even make it to the skin’s surface.
Broad-Spectrum Protection is Best
What you should also be looking for in sunscreen for vitiligo is broad spectrum protection. The depigmented patches of skin that come with the condition are especially susceptible to UV damage and there’s more than one type of ray to contend with.
UVA and UVB rays cause damage to the skin and broad spectrum products are the only ones that will protect you against both. Pretty much all mineral sunscreens offer this kind of protection, although that’s not something that can be said about chemical products.
Immediate Protection is Preferrable
You also need to know that your most sensitive areas of skin are going to be protected from minute one against those harmful rays. With chemical brands, that means having to wait for up to 30 minutes before you’re safe to go out, whereas with gentle mineral products, you get an effective barrier against the sun straight away.
This fact can be a real game-changer if you’re in a hurry, as you can apply it and go straight out of the door! However, if you’re using a chemical brand, you’re either going to have to wait 30 minutes or go out unprotected in the sun for half an hour. Not ideal.
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Mineral Products Represent the Best Sunscreen for Vitiligo – Hands Down
If you have vitiligo, wearing sun protection is essential in preventing sunburn, reducing the risk of skin cancer, and maintaining even skin tone. As such, mineral sunscreens stand out as easily the best option for the condition, because of their gentle, non-irritating formulas, immediate protection, and ability to block both UVA and UVB rays.
So, whether you’re spending a day outdoors or simply going about your daily routine with vitiligo, be sure to apply a mineral sunscreen to ensure that your skin remains protected and healthy.
