Sunscreen Guide: Choose the Right One for You
Have you been suffering from frequent sunburns and tans? Want to prevent this from happening every time? Sunscreen can be your friend in need! However, you need to buy sunscreen that suits your skin. Read on to know which sunscreen would be the best one for you.
What is SPF in sunscreen?
SPF refers to Sun Protection Factor, and it is a marker used to measure how long you can stay in sunlight without being tanned or sunburned. For instance, if you have sunscreen with an SPF of 50, you can stay out in the sun 50 times longer.
Note that no sunscreen can block 100 percent of the sun’s UV rays. Higher SPF does not mean double the protection. Using SPF 50 for being out in the sunlight would be fine, but do not be misled by higher numbers.
If you stay indoors, sunscreen with SPF 30 would be enough. However, in case of prolonged sun exposure, SPF 50 would be required.
What needs to be kept in mind while buying sunscreen?
Let us look at some points to keep in mind while buying sunscreen:
- Sunscreens are available in various textures, like gel, oil, spray, or cream. Choose the ones that suit your skin.
- A broad-spectrum sunscreen can protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Our Sunkissed hybrid sunscreen has SPF 50 and does this. It also deeply hydrates the skin.
- Avoid sunscreens that contain ingredients like oxybenzone, octinoxate, retinyl palmitate, homosalate, octocrylene, and paraben preservatives (Usually found in chemical sunscreens).
- Use water-resistant sunscreen if you sweat a lot or plan to work out.
- Check the expiry date of sunscreen before buying. Post the expiry, it won't be effective.
Sunscreens for different skin types:
Let us look at which kind of sunscreens can suit your skin, depending on your skin type:
- Normal skin: Opt for any type of sunscreen that suits your skin.
- Oily/acne-prone skin: Choose water, gel, or matte-based sunscreens. Opt for non-comedogenic sunscreen.
- Dry/combination skin: Opt for sunscreens that have hydrating properties. Cream-based sunscreens can be beneficial for this scenario.
- Sensitive skin: Look out for fragrance-free, non-comedogenic mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
- Mature skin: Look out for sunscreens containing anti-aging ingredients and antioxidants (vitamin C, E, niacinamides, etc).
How much sunscreen should I apply?
You need to apply just an ounce of sunscreen to your body. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours to exposed parts of the skin, like the face, neck, hands, legs, or other exposed parts of the body. Additionally, use protective wear like a scarf, hat, umbrella, etc, to protect yourself against extreme heat.
What are the benefits of using sunscreen?
The benefits of using sunscreen are as follows:
- Sunscreen can protect your skin against UV rays. Exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
- It reduces the risk of premature aging.
- Helps in maintaining an even skin tone.
- Prevents your skin from being tanned or sunburned.
And there you go! Your sunscreen checklist is ready. Keep your skin in mind while you pick your sunscreen and step out with confidence in the sun!
