November 24, 2022

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen

Choosing the right sunscreen is an art at which not many people excel. Sunscreens come in many forms and types, and taking the right decision can be tough, especially when the advertisements that you see on the TV do not tell you about the broader picture – the parameters to look for while selecting the ideal sunscreen.Don’t worry though! In this blog post, we will tell you how you can select the right sunscreen, according to the season and your skin type.

Let’s start with a few basics first!

What is Sunscreen?

Sunscreen – also known as sunblock, suntan lotion – is a lotion, spray, cream or other topical product that may protect the skin from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and which reduces sunburn and other skin damage, with the ultimate objective of lowering the risk of developing skin cancer. Every sunscreen comes with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) – which takes us to the next basic.

What is SPF (Sun Protection Factor)?

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is a measure of how well a sunscreen will protect the skin from UVB rays, the kind of radiation that causes sunburn, damages skin, and may contribute to skin cancer. Sunscreens contain SPFs ranging anywhere from 15 SPF to 30 and 50 SPF.

Higher SPFs may provide better protection from harmful UV radiation, but may pose other health risks on their own. In 2011, the FDA even went as far as to call sunscreens with SPF values greater than 50 "inherently misleading."

How to choose the right sunscreen?

If your skin type is ‘dry’, consider buying a sunscreen with suitable oil content, that’s enough to provide the required moisturization and doesn’t make your skin greasy.

If your skin type is ‘oily’, use a gel-based sunscreen or sun foundations that range from soufflé-based, mousse-based, water-based, etc.

Also, take heed of the SPF factor; SPF 15 blocks 93% of the UVB rays, while SPF 30 and SPF 50 block 97% and 98% of respectively.

For comprehensive protection from both UVA and UVB rays, make sure that the sunscreen you buy is marked ‘broad spectrum’.

Dermatologists recommend that Sunscreen with SPF 15-30 is ideal for day-to-day outdoor exposure. However, if you are into a profession or hobby that requires you to stay in the sun for long hours, you may sport a sunscreen with even higher SPFs.

Additionally, avoid choosing a sunscreen that is greasy or sticky because it will cause your skin to perspire excessively. Choose a sunscreen that doesn't include any harsh chemicals and has an active component that is natural or a superfood. Furthermore, look for promises like "cruelty-free," "vegan," or "certified by PETA" while making your purchase.

Using Sunscreen in the monsoon

The onset of monsoon doesn’t mean that you can give up on your sunscreen. Opt for waterproof products while ensuring to keep yourself well-nourished, well-hydrated and well-rested.