Our facial skin is quite delicate, and using the wrong cosmetic products can ruin that skin. That is why it is very important to know on how to choose & use sunscreen. Sunscreen is relatively a new invention compared to the vast array of skin toners, moisturizers, exfoliants, and masks. The branding of Sunscreen as a “sunblock” can mislead some who may believe that it is for protection only against the sun’s ultraviolet rays. However, real sunblock is not only for protection but are also for prevention. Therefore, when selecting a sunblock, you must choose the right one for your skin type.
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There are many Sunscreen types and various reasons to apply one to your skin. Sunscreen protects the skin against the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays, which can cause skin cancer and premature aging. But how do you decide which sunscreen is best for you? Well, we will give you an answer to this in our blog. Read on to find out more.
How to Choose a Sunscreen
Presence of Broad Spectrum
Do you know sunscreens must be a broad spectrum for them to be completely effective in protecting our skin against impulsive sun exposure? For those of us who don’t know, names of sunscreens are usually according to how they protect your skin. For example, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, an SPF of 30 filters out 97% of UVB rays and 50% of UVA rays. This type of protection is the “broad spectrum” protection. Thus, read the product description before buying the product.
Go for Water-resistant Sunscreens
Water-resistant sunscreens give you the flexibility to use your Sunscreen year-round without having to reapply or switch brands. Some sunscreens, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, are water-resistant only, while others like avobenzone and ecamsule contain both water- and oil-resistant versions. So, if you are looking for natural sunscreens, water-resistant sunscreens may be suitable for you.
Look for Sunscreen Lotions
Sunscreen lotions are a type of Sunscreen that can help protect you from the sun. Although sunscreens protect skin against the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, they can also protect skin from damaging long-term effects of sun exposure, such as premature skin aging, skin cancer, and skin damage. So, if you are not in favor of sunscreen cream formula, you can always go for the lotions.
Read the Formula Well
Sunscreen formulas vary widely in their SPF regarding chemical UV protection and in terms of what is covered by the SPF rating. The amount of sun protection provided by a sunscreen formula can vary significantly depending on the ingredients used in the formula and how they interact with the skin. That’s why you want to find a sunscreen formula that provides both broad-spectrum protection from the sun plus sun protection. The best formulas offer both.
Look for Quality
When you apply good quality sunscreen, it completely blocks the sun’s rays. As a result, Sunscreen provides our skin with a natural defense against the most harmful UVA and UVB rays, so your skin is exposed to less of both types of radiation when you’re in the sun. Therefore, a good quality sunscreen also absorbs UV rays, which makes it more effective at protecting against UVA and UVB rays.
Identify Your Skin Type
Everyone values their skin. Whether it be the face, neck, hands, or arms, they all care about it and want to protect it from the sun’s damaging rays. But are you aware that the type of skin you have can also dictate how much sun protection you should apply? To help you choose the right Sunscreen and lotion for you, we advise you to understand your skin type. The following traits can determine your skin type; the number of oil glands in your skin, the amount of melanin in your skin, and genetic inheritance. If it is oily, then go for a grease-less sunscreen.
Know Your Skin Tone
Skin type is a vast topic that can confuse many people. Knowing your skin type helps you pick the best Sunscreen for your skin. The skin type determines the level of protection you need against UVA and UVB rays. For example, if you have light skin, choose sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. On the other hand, it would help if you chose a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher for someone with a medium skin tone.
How to Use a Sunscreen
Sunscreens help protect your skin from the harmful UV rays that cause skin cancer. But to be effective, sunscreens need to be used correctly. To do this, first, you’ll want to read the instructions on the bottle. Here’s what you need to know:
- Be aware of the best times to apply Sunscreen;
- Always use broad-spectrum Sunscreen;
- Apply Sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside;
- Reapply every two hours;
- Use a sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays and has an SPF of at least 15.
Rub and Massage Well
Take a pea size sunscreen and evenly apply it on the skin till the sunscreen is absorbed. Then, rubbing and massaging the formula allows the pores to absorb them easily. Thus, sunscreens offer you effective sun protection.
Layer It
It is recommended to layer your skin with sunscreen, depending on the level of heat, temperature, sun’s rays, and effectiveness of the product. Usually, two layers of sunscreen applied within 5 minutes is good if you are going out. However, for harsher days, 3 to 4 layers of sunscreen should do the job well.
Key Takeaway
Sunscreen is a vital part of staying safe from the sun, and not using it can cause serious skin problems. However, not everyone can use sunscreens since some people are sensitive to sunscreens’ chemicals. But the good news is that there are many organic and natural sunscreens today that offer you protection without the risk.
