As part of the skincare routine, sunscreen plays an essential role, especially during the daytime. Whether you intend to visit the beach or go out for a few hours, applying the right amount of sunscreen to your skin protects it from the harmful rays of the sun.
But, it can sometimes be pretty tempting to choose whatever sunscreen you find in the pit shop or the grocery store on your way out of your house. Though you can choose any sunscreen since it is better than none, dermatologists suggest that the best way to protect your skin is to select a sunscreen that suits your skin’s needs.
So read on to find out how to pick the right sunscreen for your skin type.
Determining the right sunscreen
There are several ways you can determine the right sunscreen for your skin. Let’s find out about some of them.
? Mineral and chemical
There are two types of sunscreen, mineral and chemical sunscreen. Mineral or physical sunscreen is usually made with natural ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. It acts as a physical barrier between the sun and your skin and reflects the UV rays from your skin.
Mineral sunscreen is best for people with dark skin; a perfect example is a hydrating sunscreen. On the other hand, chemical sunscreens are made with oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone which absorb the sun’s rays.
? Consider the SPF
When you put on sunscreen, it will lose some of its potency. For instance, if it is an SPF 30, it has actual coverage similar to SPF 15. The Sun Protection Factor (SPF number) on a sunscreen shows the time it would take the sun’s UV radiation to redden your skin when used as against the amount of time it would take when you don’t use sunscreen.
So, an SPF 30 would allow about 30% UVB rays to your skin. Using anything less than SPF 30 would not be sufficient for your skin.
However, when you intend to go outside for a long time, like playing a sport or at the beach, experts recommend using SPF 50 or higher. Additionally, experts recommend applying sunscreen 30 minutes before you go outside.
? Broad spectrum
Brian spectrum refers to the ability of a sunscreen to filter two types of sunlight. These are the UVB which results in burns and skin cancer, and UVA, which can cause damages like wrinkles and fine lines. You can find these on the label of sunscreens.
? The expiration date
Sunscreen can expire, so you should search for the expiration date when you intend to buy one. If you can’t find one, note the date and year of purchase, and don’t use it for more than three years. FDA rules let sunscreen work for that number of years.
? The ingredients
The FDA approves 17 active ingredients for sunscreen use. Though there have been some questions about the safety of some ingredients like oxybenzone, the American Academy of Dermatology insists that preventing skin cancer and sunburn outweighs these health hazards. In addition, experts suggest that these ingredients are effective and safe when used as directed.
Sunscreen For Sensitive and Acne-Prone skin
You can use sunscreen for different skins. Let’s find out the skin types.
? Sensitive skins or those that avoid chemicals
Sensitive skin will remain vibrant and fresh if exposed to a small number of ingredients it would have otherwise reacted to. Experts recommend opting for mineral sunscreen for those with sensitive skin since zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are its main ingredients.
These two ingredients don’t sting or burn the eye. Instead, they work by staying on your skin and forming a barrier to protect the skin from the sun.
? Acne-Prone skins
Sunscreens can clog pores. This is why you should select oil-free formulas for face use. You can also use sunscreens that don’t have ingredients that clog skin pores (non-comedogenic sunscreens). For example, if your skin is dry, you can choose moisturizer sunscreens or sunscreens containing hydrating ingredients.
? Skin Color
Skin color determines the SPF level choice. For example, if your skin usually or always burns and you are fair-skinned, then using an SPF 30 or higher is better. On the other hand, medium to dark-skinned or tanned skin can use SPF 15.
Wrap Up
Protecting your skin from the sun with sunscreen is an essential part of skincare. Continuous exposure to ultraviolet rays could result in skin problems like sun damage, wrinkles, cancer, and sunburn. But picking the right sunscreen can prevent and resolve these problems.
When choosing a sunscreen, you must consider several factors like the ingredients, SPF, formulation, sun exposure level allergies, skin types, and other factors. Following the tips mentioned above would help you choose the right sunscreen for your skin.
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