Chemical sunscreen, short for chemical sunscreen agents, also known as ultraviolet absorbers, is a type of sunscreen that works by absorbing and neutralizing UVA and UVB rays from sunlight. Its ingredients include organic compounds such as Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Oxybenzone, and Ethylhexyl Salicylate. Based on the protected spectrum, they can be categorized into UVA absorbers, UVB absorbers, and broad-spectrum absorbers. Chemical sunscreens convert ultraviolet rays into heat or visible light through chemical reactions. They need to be applied 20 minutes in advance to form a protective film and should be reapplied every 2 hours. They have a lightweight texture, making them suitable for oily skin, while sensitive skin should opt for low-irritation formulas or large-molecule sunscreens. New technologies include biodegradable sunscreens, large-molecule sunscreens such as Mexoryl 400 and TriAsorB, which reduce skin penetration and environmental harm. Depending on the wavelength of ultraviolet light absorbed, chemical sunscreens can be divided into UVA sunscreens and UVB sunscreens.
![]()
Sun Protection Principle:
The mechanism of chemical sunscreen involves forming a ultraviolet-absorbing barrier on the skin's surface with the help of other film-forming substances, which absorbs and neutralizes UV rays to prevent them from penetrating the skin.
Main Ingredients:
Common chemical sunscreen ingredients include Oxybenzone (C13H10O), Ethylhexyl Salicylate (C15H20O3), Homosalate (C16H22O3), Cinoxate (C14H18O4), Disodium Phenyl Dibenzimidazole Tetrasulfonate (C20H12N4Na2O12S4), Avobenzone (C20H22O3), Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (C18H26O3), and patented ingredients from corporate laboratories such as Mexoryl.
![]()
Notes:
1. People with fair skin should choose products with relatively high SPF values. In places with high sunlight reflectivity, such as beaches or concrete areas, or when exposed to the sun for extended periods, choose products with SPF30. Under normal circumstances, SPF8-15 is sufficient. Additionally, SPF values only indicate protection against UVB. For comprehensive protection, check the product description to ensure it also offers adequate UVA protection. If sweat or water may wash off the sunscreen, choose a waterproof product.
2. Sunscreen products come in various forms, such as lotions, gels, and sprays. The choice should be based on skin type or usage scenario. However, regardless of the texture, opt for lightweight formulations in the summer. Moreover, the amount of sunscreen applied must be sufficient—typically, the face and neck require about two finger-lengths' worth. However, sunscreen should not remain on the face for too long; keep the skin clean to avoid overburdening skin metabolism.
3. Do not use sunscreen as a remedy only after the skin has already been sunburned.
4. Unless specified or using a product designed for the eye area, do not apply sunscreen around the eyes.
5. Before applying sunscreen, it is best to use a moisturizing product. It is not recommended to apply sunscreen directly.
6. Every evening, make sure to thoroughly remove sunscreen. Do not rest or sleep with sunscreen on.
![]()