Of course, best sunscreen should be an integral part of your daily skincare. Sunscreen doesn’t just protect your skin from getting sunburned at the beach, but it’s for day-to-day use so your skin is always protected. But the best sunscreen does a little more than prevent sunburn-it protects your skin from those harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that may cause premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer.
With all the sundries of sunblocker brands in the market, it can be so very confusing on what to apply. Would you opt for an SPF 15 or an SPF 30? Chemical or physical? How do you know which brand and which type are best for you?
It will walk you through all your questions and more. From the science of UV protection to common myths and its disapprovals, this is how you are supposed to choose the best sunscreen for your skin and lifestyle.
Why You Should Never Skip Sunscreen
The Dangers of Unprotected Sun Exposure
There are two types of ultraviolet rays that the sun is emitting that can damage the skin: UVA and UVB.
- UVA Rays cause premature aging, wherein one develops wrinkles and sunspots. These penetrate the deep layers of the skin and result in long-term damage of the skin.
- UVB Rays cause sunburn and are a main contributor to skin carcinoma by damaging the outer layers of the skin.
Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays could still penetrate through the clouds and cause more harm to your skin. Thus, daily sunscreen application should be part of the indispensable daily regimen in achieving healthy skin.
What to Look for in the Best Sunscreen
Not all sunscreens are the same, and so you need to choose the one that best meets your requirements. The following are the parameters you need to consider when selecting the best sunscreen that will ensure you get maximum protection.
1. Broad-Spectrum Protection
The finest sunblocker will offer broad-spectrum protection, meaning they will protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are the one that causes premature aging of your skin, whereas UVB rays trigger sunburn and also contribute to skin cancers. The ones that are sold as broad-spectrum ensure full protection.
2. SPF (Sun Protection Factor)
SPF is a measure of the extent to which a sunblocker protects against UVB rays. Here is a general guide of the amount of protection provided by the SPF numbers:
- SPF 30 absorbs nearly 97% of UVB rays.
- SPF 50 absorbs nearly 98% of UVB rays.
- SPF 100 absorbs nearly 99% of UVB rays.
The SPF level 30 for daily use will suffice, but if you plan to expose for longer hours in the sun or have highly sensitive skin, then you may prefer your best sunscreen with an SPF level 50+ for a stronger protection.
3. Water-Resistance
If you would swim or work out, you would require using the right type of sunblock. It may stand up to your swim or sweat for 40 to 80 minutes. However, you must not think that the sunscreens are waterproof. You have to reapply your sunscreen often.
4. Skin Type Considerations
Your skin type is one of the considerations in selecting the best sunscreen:
Oily or Acne-prone skin: Oil-free, non-comedogenic formulation that won’t clog pores. The gel-based sunscreens are preferred for oily skins.
Dry skin: The sunscreens containing hygro-moisturizers like glycerin or hyaluronic acid would do well in keeping the skin hydrated.
Sensitive skin: Physical sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide tend to be milder than chemical one.
Types of Sunscreens: Physical vs. Chemical
Sunscreens fall mainly into two categories: physical (mineral) and chemical type, each having its advantages.
1. Physical Sunscreens (Mineral Sunscreens)
The application of these sunblocker sits on the surface of the skin, reflecting the UV rays away from the body. The active ingredients are zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. The best benefit is that the physical sunscreens are ideal for sensitive skin as they possess minimal opportunities to cause irritation.
Advantages: Provide immediate protection, do not cause skin irritation easily, offer stronger UVA protection.
Drawbacks: May leave a white cast on skin, this sunscreen comes in a thicker consistency as compared to chemical sunscreens.
2. Chemical Sunscreens
These sunscreens absorb UV rays, break them down into heat and then allow them to leave the skin. It contains active ingredients such as avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone, which are mostly light formulas.
Pros: It can be lighter, easier to apply, and blendable with the skin, no white cast.
Cons: It may cause irritation, particularly to sensitive skin, but would take around 15-20 minutes before being effective once applied.
The Best Way to Apply Sunscreen
Applying sunblocker correctly can get you all the benefits a sunscreen can provide. So, for maximum protection, follow these basic tips:
Apply Enough: One of the primary reasons why most individuals do not get ample sunscreen application is due to their ignorance about required amounts. To obtain coverage on your entire body, you will require approximately an ounce, which is the same as a shot glass. For getting your face covered, it’s advisable to use about the amount of a nickel-sized area.
Reapply Every Two Hours: Sunscreens break down with time, especially in case of water or sweat. Re-apply sunscreen every two hours, or right after taking a swim or sweating.
Some very important areas to remember to apply are the ears, neck, back of hands, and tops of feet. These places typically get overlooked as one hits these spots with the intent of relaxing in the sun.
15-20 minutes before sun exposure: For chemical sunscreens, you absolutely have to put them on 15-20 minutes prior to the sun so the active ingredients soak long enough into your skin.
Sunscreen Myths busted
Although it is widely recommended as a skincare product, there are still so many misconceptions when it comes to sunblocker. Let’s bust the most common myths:
Myth 1: Sunscreen is used only for summer or hot weather. Fact: UV rays can pass through your skin even during cloudy or cold days. Sunscreen has to be applied every day regardless of whatever the weather or season is.
Myth 2: People with darker skin tones do not need sunblocker. Fact: People with darker skin tones carry more melanin, which means they have some natural protection; however, this does not make them resistant to the effects of UV damage, early aging, or cancer. Everyone needs sunscreen regardless of their skin tone.
Myth 3: The more SPF, the better protection at all hours of the day. Fact: No sunscreen lasts till sunset. Even if you have a high SPF, you need to reapply every two hours for protection to be maintained.
Myth 4: If my makeup or moisturizer has some SPF, that’s enough. Fact: It’s great that some makeup or moisturizers contain SPF but doesn’t get you off the hook from applying a layer of dedicated sunblocker under your makeup. In fact, it may just prove to be the most crucial way you can ensure you get sufficient protection, as too many times, relying on your makeup or moisturizer does not cover all bases.
Advanced Sunscreen Solutions for Enhanced Protection
These advanced solutions in sun protection bring additional benefits including hydration, anti-aging properties, or lightweight texture that is useful for ease of application over the course of a day.
An example is Shadow Rx Sunscreen SPF 55+ Gel. The product provides protection for broad-spectrum, giving it a perfect SPF 55+. This will be ideal for people who have sensitive skin or who spend extended periods outdoors. Its gel-based formula does not leave any white cast and does not feel greasy; hence, it suits the needs of oily and combination skin. Moreover, the product is water-resistant, hence with its lasting protection when swimming or exposed to water while participating in a physical activity.
Conclusion
An appropriate sunscreen must, therefore, provide not only correct SPF but also be a formula that suits your skin type, has broad-spectrum protection, and matches your lifestyle requirements. No matter whether you have oily or dry skin, there is always a sunblocker for those looking for one.
In fact, protecting your skin against these destructive UV rays could be one of the best things you can do for your long term health and appearance. Make sunscreen habit in your daily routine and enjoy the outdoors knowing that your skin is safe and protected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much sunscreen am I supposed to use on my face?
For your face, the American Cancer Society recommends using the nickel-sized amount. Use it thoroughly on the hairline and across the ears, and down the neck.
2. Do I need sunscreen if I am inside?
Yes. You can get sun’s UV rays coming through windows. So apply sunscreen even indoors when you are near windows. Also, when driving, apply sunscreen before leaving your home.
3. Can I apply sunscreen over makeup?
Absolutely! Use the sunscreen first, and let it set into your skin before you use makeup. There are sunscreens whose formulas are so lightweight that they work perfectly under makeup, too.
4. How long does sunscreen stay in effect on the skin?
A majority of sunscreens last for two hours. You are supposed to reapply once the period is over, mainly when using it outside, swimming, or perspiring.
5. What is the difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50?
SPF 30 absorbs about 97% UVB rays; SPF 50 absorbs almost 98%. It is a little narrow difference, but the SPF 50 would be just a little more protective for extended periods.
