SkinMedica Mineral Shield SPF Face Sunscreen for Oily/Combination Skin

From the manufacturer, SkinMedica sunscreens offer the highest PA rating at PA++++, providing essential defense against UVA rays. The PA rating system ranges from +(least) to ++++(most), with more plus symbols indicating greater protection from UVA rays, which can cause long-term skin damage and premature aging.

The Essential Defense sunscreens contain both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which are physical sunscreen actives that work by deflecting and blocking damaging UV rays. In contrast, the Everyday Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 47 Sunscreen contains only zinc oxide.

While the Essential Defense sunscreens provide broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays, they do not offer infrared (IR) protection. This feature is uniquely delivered by the TOTAL DEFENSE + REPAIR sunscreens.

The key difference between an all-physical sunscreen and a physical-chemical sunscreen lies in their mechanism of action. All-physical sunscreens, such as those containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, sit on top of the skin to deflect and block UV rays. Physical sunscreens are often recommended for individuals with sensitive skin or following certain procedures, as they tend to work better for heat-activated skin conditions like rosacea and redness.

TOTAL DEFENSE + REPAIR is a more advanced sunscreen that has been heavily researched and studied in clinical settings. It goes beyond sun protection and actively supports the skin's ability to restore itself.

All three Essential Defense sunscreens are formulated to be noncomedogenic, paraben-free, hypoallergenic, oil-free, and fragrance-free, making them suitable for a wide range of skin types.

SkinMedica offers a comprehensive skincare system, including cleansers, growth factors, correcting products, hydrators, and sunscreens, to address various skin concerns and promote overall skin health and appearance. It is important to follow the usage guidelines and precautions for specific products, especially those containing alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or retinol, to optimize results and minimize potential irritation.

It is crucial to note that while most SkinMedica products are considered cosmetic in nature, the sunscreen offerings are regulated as over-the-counter drug products by the FDA. The PA rating system used to classify UVA protection is specific to Japan and is not an FDA requirement for sunscreens sold in the United States.

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