Sunscreen

Sunscreen ingredients help reduce the effects of UV rays on the skin and thereby reduce the risk of redness, photoaging, and damage associated with UVA and UVB radiation. According to the FDA, the SPF index primarily reflects protection from UVB rays, and the broad spectrum label also means protection from UVA radiation; when used according to the instructions, such products help prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of early skin aging caused by the sun. In the CosIng cosmetic database, the sunscreen function refers to substances that are designed to absorb, reflect, or disperse UV radiation. (fda.gov)

Such components work mainly on the surface of the skin, forming a protective shield or filtering some of the radiation before it causes damage. This is especially important for face and body care products, day creams, lip balms, and some hair products, where protection helps reduce dryness, color fading, and sun damage. At the same time, they affect the properties of the formula: they can make the texture more dense, whitish, or, conversely, more transparent, depending on the type of filter and its concentration. (fda.gov)

Typical examples of such ingredients are Zinc Oxide and Avobenzone. Zinc oxide belongs to mineral UV filters and is often used in formulas for sensitive skin, while avobenzone is an organic filter known for its ability to protect in the UVA range; it is often combined with other filters for more complete and stable protection. For sensitive skin, dermatologists also often recommend options with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. (fda.gov)