Right Sunscreen

Sun Protection: How To Choose The Right Sunscreen

  • March 29, 2023
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Regular moisturizers are less effective than sunscreens because their consistency is less thick. In contrast to carbon-based sunscreens, mineral-based sunscreens with Zinc oxide and Titanium dioxide are better suited and do not irritate the skin. Numerous moisturizers that claim to guard against sun damage do not contain the necessary UVA protection, making them ineffective at preventing UV aging and other problems related to sun damage. 

It becomes dry when the skin doesn’t retain enough moisture to stay soft and supple. Harsh soaps, frequent bathing, or specific medical conditions may contribute to this. Dry skin can also result from the chilly, dry winter air in colder climates. One of the best ways to treat dry skin is with moisturizers, which seal in the water and rehydrate the top layer of the skin. Generally, a product will moisturize your skin more effectively, the thicker and greasier it is. Petroleum jelly, its vegetable-based substitutes, and moisturizing oils, including vegetable oils, are some of the most efficient and affordable options. 

Since they don’t contain any water, it’s best to use them while the skin is still damp from a bath to Slock in moisture. Various water and oil ratios are present in lotions to hydrate your skin. They can be used all day long and typically contain both humectants and emollients.

SPF—Does It Matter?

The term “SPF” stands for sun protection factor. SPF in sunscreen aids in shielding your skin from the sun’s rays.

UVA and UVB rays are two types of radiation that the sun emits. UVA rays are a factor in developing wrinkles and other aging-related skin conditions. More cancer-causing UVB rays frequently bring on sunburns. UVB and UVA rays can be fatal because UVB rays are made more reactive by UVA rays. When you are outside or close to a window with sunlight, you are exposed to the sun’s harmful radiation. Even if you are not prone to sunburns, that radiation still affects your skin.

SPF extends your skin’s natural defenses against the sun’s rays. For example, an SPF of 15 provides about 15 times more protection than your normal skin without sunscreen. An SPF of 50 would provide 50 times more protection than skin without sunscreen. Choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen means it’s a type of sunscreen that will block out both UVA and UVB rays.

SPF

Here are six essential suggestions dermatologists want you to remember when purchasing sunscreen to make things easier:

1. Look For SPF 30 or Higher

It is purchasing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more. The more SPF, the better UVB radiation protection it will provide.

2. Check The Label For Broad-Spectrum Protection 

It’s also essential to use a sunscreen that is labeled broad-spectrum or indicates that it provides coverage against both UVA and UVB, as we know both can contribute to skin aging and skin cancer as we know both can contribute to skin aging and skin cancer.

3. Check To See If The Sunscreen Is Water-Resistant

Choose a water-resistant sunblock, especially if you intend to swim or sweat. According to the AAD, water resistance typically lasts 40 to 80 minutes, after which you should reapply sunscreen.

4. If You Have Dry To Normal Skin 

Choose a sunscreen that contains hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin. If you have normal skin, you should be able to use any sunscreen you want. So it all comes down to personal taste and what works best for your skin.

5. If You Have Oily Or Combination Skin 

Look for sunscreens labeled oil-free or non-comedogenic, which won’t clog pores or worsen breakouts. Those with oily skin should look for a lightweight, quick-absorbing sunscreen with a matte finish, as this will help absorb excess moisture and will not leave the skin looking shiny or greasy.

Oily Or Combination Skin

6. If You Have Sensitive Skin

Physical sunscreens, also known as mineral blockers, that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are recommended for sensitive skin because they are less irritating than chemical filters. Those with sensitive skin should avoid products containing fragrances or other additives that can be harsh or irritating.

Can I Get Tanned While Wearing Sunscreen?

Even when wearing sunscreen, you can still tan. Sunscreen should be reapplied frequently because it can be rubbed off, sweated off, or washed off if you spend a lot of time in the water or pool.

Wrapping Up

Using sunscreen is a crucial strategy for minimizing the adverse effects of the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB radiation. During all outdoor activities, adults of all ages and skin tones should wear sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30. Children should wear cream-based sunscreen with at least SPF 30 over six months. Furthermore, using sunscreen alone won’t be enough to protect you from the sun’s radiation. You can also shield yourself from the sun with protective clothing and shade.