Chemical or organic sunscreens are usually very light and pleasant to use, and they do not leave a white cast on the skin. A chemical sunscreen filter absorbs the harmful UV rays from the sun, preventing them from damaging the skin. Simply put, chemical sunscreen molecules are like small factories that absorb UV radiation and convert it into a form (mainly heat) that does not cause skin cancer or (as much) aging of the skin.

Hybrid sunscreens contain both physical and chemical sunscreen filters, and this is a very typical solution for Korean sunscreens. This way, the best qualities of both types are utilized; the beautiful, slightly pore-covering finish provided by physical protection and the light and fresh texture brought by the chemical component.

Does sunscreen need activationperiod before it works?

One of the most persistent myths about using sunscreen is that it needs to be absorbed into the skin for a certain amount of time before it works. This is not exactly true. Sunscreen should indeed be applied before going outside, but no lotion needs time to "activate" as such.

The traditional 15-minute waiting time recommendation is based on the idea that the SPF has time to settle on the skin and does not, for example, get wiped off by clothing or your movements.

If you apply makeup after putting on sunscreen, it is definitely advisable to let the sunscreen settle properly on the skin for about 5-10 minutes before applying makeup. This way, you ensure that you do not accidentally wipe off all the sunscreen you just applied while putting on makeup.