Paula's ChoiceExtra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 50Ingredients

Avobenzone is the only chemical UV-protection component with a broad spectrum coverage. It can help to block both UVA I and UVA II rays. It's safe and it is allowed to use at a 3% concentration in the USA and a 5% concentration in the EU countries.

There is one problem: avobenzone loses efficiency when exposed to the sun. If you are outside, it loses 36% of its ability to block UV rays an hour after application. That's why it's recommended to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours.

Octocrylene is an organic chemical sunscreen. It protects against UVA and UVB rays that can damage your skin or even lead to melanoma. It also stabilizes other sunscreen ingredients in a formulation and increases the water resistance of a product. It is approved by the FDA in concentrations of up to 10%. It’s not a very effective component on its own, that’s why manufacturers combine it with other chemical sunscreens.

Despite its effectiveness, there are some “cons” against the component. As with any other chemical sunscreen, it is absorbed and can be detected in blood. This doesn’t mean the component is harmful, but still… Octocrylene should also be used carefully by anyone who is breastfeeding because it can be found in breast milk.

Anyway, the component isn’t researched quite well despite its popularity. More studies are required to determine how safe the component is.

Despite its effectiveness, there are some “cons” against the component. As with any other chemical sunscreen, it is absorbed and can be detected in blood. This doesn’t mean the component is harmful, but still… Octocrylene should also be used carefully by anyone who is breastfeeding because it can be found in breast milk.

Anyway, the component isn’t researched quite well despite its popularity. More studies are required to determine how safe the component is.