Sunscreen

The Indian weather can be severe for our skin and overall health. Across India, the temperatures range from warm to hot during the day, with the exception of the Himalayan states which are chilly even during high noon. For Indians, and travellers in India, it is essential to protect yourself from the harsh sunlight and wear sunscreen whenever you spend time outside.

The sun produces UVA and UVB rays that are harmful for your skin. UVA radiation induces common ageing symptoms like fine lines and wrinkles by penetrating the skin's deepest layers. Sunburns are usually brought on by UVB rays, which mostly damage the top layer of skin. Not all sunscreens can protect your skin from both the rays. You have to read the label to determine if the product is suitable for you before you buy sunscreen.

The following factors are some tips to help you understand the terminology used on sunscreen lotions better:

• Sun Protection factor (SPF): SPF is important since it indicates how efficiently the sunscreen protects against sunburn. But what do the different SPF digits indicate? SPF 100 does not mean you will get twice the protection of SPF 50. In India, it is preferable to choose a product that is SPF 80 or SPF 100, which prevents most of the sun's damaging rays.

• Broad or wide spectrum: It indicates that the sunscreen lotion will protect you from UVA radiation, which cause skin cancer and ageing, as well as UVB rays, which cause sunburn and lead to skin cancer. Keep in mind that SPF refers to UVB protection, not UVA protection. As a result, always search for a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

• Water resistant: Sunscreens branded 'water resistant' stay effective while swimming or sweating for the duration specified on the container.

Sunscreens comes in the following varieties:

Chemical sunscreen:

Chemical sunscreen often offer more thorough UV protection than physical ones. They are a better option as they are also resistant to water and sweat when swimming or exercising in the sun. They are frequently lighter in consistency and absorb rapidly, making them more comfortable to wear, which is another reason why many individuals choose to wear them. Chemical sunscreen lotions are used often in both spray-on sunscreens and sunscreens designed exclusively for the face since they are less thick than physical sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens must be applied at least 15 minutes prior to leaving the house since they need to be absorbed into the skin.

Mineral sunscreens:

Mineral sunscreens or physical sunscreens contain two components–titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Both components effectively block UVA and UVB (wide spectrum) radiation. Together, these components reflect or deflect sunlight when they are applied over the skin. Mineral sunscreen for face is not absorbed into the skin but acts as a barrier.

Usage

Use roughly a teaspoon of lotion per body part or region not covered by clothes, and for sprays, apply enough to make your skin sparkle, then rub it in. Apply it at least 20 minutes before venturing outside and reapply it every couple of hours or sooner if you're swimming or perspiring.

It is preferable to apply sunscreen lotion after you are done with your day-care regime. If you use serums or moisturisers over sunscreen, it will reduce the sunscreen's level of protection, thus it is always best to do so after finishing your skin care routine.

How frequently should sunscreen be applied?

Dermatologists recommend using sunscreen every two hours, or more regularly if you swim or perspire or are outdoors. Remember, reapplying sunscreen is as important as applying sunscreen. You may have applied sunscreen 15-20 minutes before you left to go outside, but that does not keep you protected through the day. That's why it's vital to keep your sunscreen product handy when you're going to be outdoors for several hours, and to reapply it every two hours. Use a spoonful for the face and a full shot glass for the body. Consistency shouldn't vary in any way. The sunscreen is probably not working as well as it should if you see clumping or graininess. Additionally, a foul scent coming from a bottle might indicate bacterial infection. Replace from the nearest store or purchase sunscreen online when in doubt.

Final Note

There are several sunscreen variations on the market that also reasonably priced. You can search for a range of sunscreen products online that can be delivered to your doorstep.

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