Summer vacations call for fun! You may want to spend some days shopping, some days at the beach, or just strolling and visiting the most popular sights. But remember, too much sun exposure can lead to several skin problems. That is why wearing sunscreen is imperative for everyone. However, it might seem challenging to find a sunscreen that offers the protection you need without clogging your pores or making your skin greasy. You also have to look at the SPF, PA protection, and list of active ingredients in your sunscreen.
Choosing the right sunscreen protection is the first and most crucial step to having safe fun in the sun.
Choosing the Right Sun Protection
Sunscreens are the holy grail of sun protection. There are several types of sunscreens, each with different ingredients and protective levels. This may make choosing the right one confusing, but you don’t have to worry about making the wrong choice. Dermatitis suggests that any sunscreen is better than no sunscreen. However, here’s all you need to consider for choosing the right sunscreen suitable for every skin type.
1. Broad Spectrum:
Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen helps filter out two types of sunlight, UVA, and UVB, both of which cause skin damage and skin cancer.
2. SPF:
The SPF level indicates the product’s ability to block UVB rays. The higher the SPF, the more protection you usually get from sunburns. You must reapply every two hours, no matter what SPF you select. For example, if you’re in the sun all day, you need sunscreen lotion with SPF 50. The Lotus Herbals Safe Sun Vitamin-C MatteGEL Daily Sunscreen SPF 50 is a good recommendation in such a situation. If you’re indoors, you can choose a sunscreen with a lower SPF like Safe Sunscreen Cream PA+ SPF 20 by Lotus Herbals.
3. Water Resistance:
A water-resistant sun protection cream will keep you protected even after you get wet. Such sunscreen is highly recommended for those involved in swimming activities or those who sweat heavily. Irrespective, it is imperative to reapply every two hours for optimum protection.
4. Sprays, Gels & Creams:
Sunscreens come in various formulations. A gel sunscreen is beneficial for you if you have oily skin. If your skin type is dry, then a cream-based formula is best. Sprays are convenient for an on-the-go application and reapplication of sunscreen over makeup. Choose the one that suits your skin type and offers broad coverage.
5. Ingredients:
When choosing sunscreen, all-natural is the way to go. You want your sunscreen to give you adequate sun protection, as most chemical-based products claim, but you wouldn’t want allergies and irritation as a side-effect. Hence, choose a natural-ingredient-based sunscreen. Here are the ingredients you must look for in your sunscreen:
- Orange Extracts and Kakadu Plum: If you’re looking for a vitamin C sunscreen, choose one with Orange extracts and Kakadu Plum. Orange is a rich source of vitamin C, which is beneficial in treating sunburns and reducing suntan. Orange also helps in reversing the pigmentation and dark spots caused by constant sun exposure. Kakadu Plum has 100x more Vitamin C than a regular orange. Sunscreen also helps in preventing early signs of ageing. Kakadu Plum is immensely beneficial in preventing skin tan.
- Birch and Hops: Sunscreens that contain Birch extracts detoxify the skin. It is high in amino acids and minerals that protect your skin from damage from the sun and pollution. Sun-stressed skin needs healing and rest. Hops relax over-stressed skin with their anti-inflammatory properties. It works as an antiseptic that prevents bacteria from turning into acne.
- Carrot and Avocado: Carrots are excellent for dealing with skin discolouration and pigmentation issues due to their high beta-carotene content. Carrots, abundant in Vitamin A, fight premature ageing, wrinkles, and fine lines caused by sun exposure. Avocado sunscreens are packed with natural oils that nourish the skin. Vitamin C, present in Avocado, protects the skin from oxidative damage caused by UV radiation.
Apart from this, it would help if you took some preventive measures to protect your skin from sun damage. Opt for long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and skirts that can shield you from UV rays. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, ears, and nape from sunlight. Look for a hat made of tightly-woven fabric such as canvas. Straw hats should not be worn as they let in sunlight. Also, carry sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays and reduce the chance of cataracts.
Sun exposure leads to skin ageing, which manifests as fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. If you get sunburned, limit sun exposure for two or three days to help heal the affected areas. Sunscreen plays a crucial role in preventing sunburn and skin damage from UV exposure. Wearing sunscreen with a high SPF is extremely important. On top of that, make sure you reapply sunscreen every two hours and don’t forget about your neck and ears.
