The main concernwith nanoparticles is that they are so tiny that they are absorbedinto the skin more than we want them (ideally sunscreen should remain on the surface of the skin). Once absorbed they might form unwanted complexes with proteins and they might promote the formation of evil free radicals. But do not panic, these are concerns under investigation. A 2009 review article about the safety of nanoparticles summarizes this, "to date, in-vivo and in-vitro studies have not demonstrated percutaneous penetration of nanosized particles in titanium dioxide and zinc oxide sunscreens". The English translation is, so far it looks like sunscreenswith nanoparticlesdo stay on the surface of the skin where they should be. Since most people don't apply enough sunscreen to achieve the stated SPF, we looked only at products with SPF 30 or higher to maximise the chance of getting adequate protection. All are broad spectrum – meaning they protect against UVA and UVB radiation – and all have been tested to the Australian standard for sunscreen. Table notes Triallist impressions: Thin and light, went on easily and had a nice feel; Quite drying, not moisturising enough, makeup didn't stay on, some didn't like smell.

Titanium Dioxide is one of the two members of the elite sunscreen group called physical sunscreens (or inorganic sunscreens if you’re a science geek and want to be precise). A fast spreading emollient ester (hexyl alcohol + lauric acid) that's used in water in oil emulsions or in water-free formulas. It gives a light skin feel. what‑it‑doesAnyway, it doesn't matter if it reflects or absorbs, Titanium Dioxide is a pretty awesome sunscreen agent for two main reasons: it gives a nice broad spectrum coverage and it's highly stable. Its protection is very good between 290 - 350 nm (UVB and UVA II range), and less goodat 350-400 nm (UVA I) range. Regular sized Titanium Dioxide also has a great safetyprofile, it's non-irritating and is pretty much free from any health concerns (like estrogenic effect worries with some chemical filters). It also has some unique moisturizing properties as it is bothocclusive and humectant. The former one is common for oils and waxes and it means that it sits on top of the skin hindering water to evaporate out of the top layers. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear to further reduce risk. Frequent re-application is required.

Trust us, if something is used for more than 100 years in cosmeticproducts, it hasadvantages. Chemically speaking, cosmetic grade mineral oil is a complex mixture ofhighly refined saturated hydrocarbons with C15-50 chain length.It is not merely a "by-product" but rather a specifically isolated part of petroleum that is very pure and inert. If physical sunscreensdon't tell you anything, go ahead and read about the basics here. Most of what we wrote about Titanium Dioxideis also true for Zinc Oxide so we will focus here on the differences. A mixture of 4 to 7 chain length cyclic silicones. It's a light, volatile ingredient that gives skin or hair a smooth feel and has emollient properties. The five products we liked best came out on top based on their overall impression, their moisturising ability and people's interest in buying them. Price is no indicator of preferenceWhile it is true that industrial grade mineral oil contains carcinogenic components (so-calledpolycyclic compounds), these are completely removed from cosmetic and food grade mineral oil and there is no scientific data showing that the pure, cosmetic grade version is carcinogenic. A dispersing agent that's used in inorganic (titanium dioxide/zinc oxide based) sunscreens or in make-up products to help to distribute the pigments nicely and evenly on the skin. Triallist impressions: Nice consistency, easy to apply, no bad smell, skin looked fresh and dewy; Didn't like the shiny, oily look.

Uvistat SPF 50 lipscreen contains Vitamin E and Tea Tree oil. The moisturising balm helps prevent lips from becoming dry and chapped. With the lips being the area of the body with the least layers of skin, then extra care should be taken all year round. The pros of mineral oilcan be interpreted as cons if we look at them from another perspective. Not penetrating the skin but mostly just sitting on top of it and not containing biologically active components, like nice fatty acids and vitamins meanthat mineral oil does not "nourish" the skin in the way plant oils do. Mineral oil doesnot give the skin any extra goodness, it is simply a non-irritating moisturizer working mainly by occlusivity.There can be a tendency from many Australians to slop on some sunscreen and think they are protected all day long," says Paige Preston, National Skin Cancer Committee Cancer Council Australia. The cheapest product, Coles Face Sunscreen, was rated equal best. Suitable for sensitive skin, this product would suit all the family as an everyday face sunscreen. BG’s main job is usually to be a solvent for the other ingredients. Other tasks include helping the product to absorb faster and deeper into the skin (penetration enhancer), making the product spread nicely over the skin (slip agent), and attracting water (humectant) into the skin. Paediatrician tested. Free from fragrance, chemical absorbers and lanolin to minimise irritation to sensitive skin. Water resistant for 4 hours.