Sunscreen

All You Need To Know About Sunscreen

Sun cream is here to save your skin! It is no secret that sunscreens help shield your skin from the ultraviolet rays and prevent the signs of ageing, making it essential in every skincare routine. It is highly recommended to lay a strong skincare foundation by using the best sunscreen to ensure no burn or damaging effects on your skin.

All skincare or makeup products require you to go through some trial and error. The same is the case for finding the right sunscreen. The process may be daunting if you head straight into the buying process without taking in some notes, which is why we are here to help.

Read along to know more about sunscreen, its benefits, and how you can choose the right one for you.

It might surprise you, but sunscreen is not a new age philosophy or product. Companies making beauty products might be using new formulas for preparing sunscreen now, but people from ancient civilizations used more organic ingredients like rice extracts, olive oil, etc. Synthetic sunscreen lotions only came into existence around the late 1920s.

No sunscreen is foolproof, yet the greater the number of SPF protects your skin. Though ultraviolet light is invisible to the human eye, it can damage the skin. Thus, one must consider the level of SPF or sun protection factor while buying sunblock. The SPF number indicates the amount of protection it provides against UVB.

Some beauty products such as foundation, moisturizers , or primers (depending on the particular product and brand) also come inclusive of the SPF ingredient.

Benefits of Sunscreen

If you aren't too particular about skincare and need to be convinced why you need sunscreen, the benefits listed below might help you change your mind.

Reduces the risk of skin cancer - One must be cautious of UVA and UVB rays that can cause damage to the DNA in your skin cells and risk the chances of skin cancer. The sunburns caused by UVB rays are mainly responsible for developing skin cancer. Choosing the right sunscreen will minimize the damaging effects and subside the risk factor caused by UV rays.

Combat against premature ageing - Who does not wish to look young and healthy? You cannot beat the natural cycle of ageing, but you can avoid premature ageing. The UVA rays damage your skin, causing it to appear tanned and wrinkled. By using the appropriate sun protection or sunscreen, you can take necessary preventive measures. A healthy diet and a moderate workout daily is something that fights anti-ageing.

How to pick the right sunscreen based on your skin type?

No matter the season, ensure that you apply sunscreen every day 15-30 minutes before stepping out in the sun. Since every skin type is different, you need to ensure that you choose a product that will suit your skin type.

The best sunscreen for acne-prone skin will differ from recommended sunscreen for sensitive skin. Sun creams are available in multiple formulations, including gel-based sunscreen, spray formula, and the usual lotion. Also, ensure that the product label states “broad spectrum”, as it means your sunscreen offers adequate protection from UVA and UVB.

Sensitive skin - People with sensitive skin types should choose a sunscreen containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide with high SPF as these ingredients are mild. They should avoid using sunscreen formulas that contain oxybenzone or paraben, which might irritate your skin.

Acne-prone skin - You need to be cautious when picking up the best sunscreen for acne-prone skin or any other skin care products , for that matter. Avoid choosing heavy and fragrant sunscreen. Instead, opt for a mild spray formula.

Dry skin - For dry skin types, dermatologists suggest you choose a sunscreen with hydrating ingredients. Make sure your sunscreen has ingredients such as ceramides, honey, and glycerin, that will act as an enriching moisturizer to your skin.

Oily skin - A natural sunscreen cream might feel heavy on oily skin. People with oily skin should opt for a non-greasy, fluid and lightweight formula. A gel-based sunscreen formula is preferable for oily skin as it is easy to blend and keeps you from looking shiny.

At Zivame, we have an array of sunscreen brands you can choose from that are suitable for all skin types. By following the simple guidelines, you can ensure safety for your skin. Feel free to browse through our sunscreen collection and be up-to-date with your skincare regime!

FAQs on Sunscreen

1. Can we apply sunscreen without moisturizer?

Yes, you can apply sunscreen without moisturizer. Just ensure it is a physical sunscreen. Two types of sunscreens rule the cosmetic world: chemical sunscreen and physical sunscreen. You should apply chemical sunscreen first and then the moisturizer. In the case of physical sunscreen, use it after applying the moisturizer. What could be the reason? Chemical sunscreen needs to get into your skin to protect it.

2. Can we use sunscreen at night?

No, you do not need to use sunscreen at night. You don’t need sunscreen to protect your skin from the moonlight at night. If applied at night, even the best sunscreen can clog your pores and cause further skin problems.

3. When should you not use sunscreen?

You should use sunscreen whenever you’re stepping out or exposed to the sun. Even when the weather is cloudy and there is no prominent sunlight, 80% of the sun’s UV rays penetrate your skin. When you’re inside, windows block UVB rays but let most UVA rays in. Since neither cloud coverage nor windows completely block UV rays, you must wear sunscreen whenever it is light outside.

4. Can I use sunscreen every day?

Yes, you can use sunscreen every day. With every passing day, your skin cells change. They get exposed to the harmful rays of the sun every single day. Even the best dermatologist will recommend using sunscreen alongside other prescribed skincare products. It protects you from future skin damage, accelerated skin ageing, and skin cancer.

5. What is the correct way to apply sunscreen?

Only an ounce of sunscreen is enough to protect the whole of you. Apply a thick and thorough layer over your skin. Use it only on the exposed parts of your body, as those covered by clothes need no application. Try to be careful while applying close to your eyes.

6. How does sunscreen protect your skin?

Here are the five mind boggling benefits of sunscreen cream:

• It reduces the risk of skin pre-cancer, skin cancer, and sun sensitivity.
• It absorbs the sun’s UV rays from damaging your skin and prevents them from reaching the deep layers of your skin. It is a photoprotective topical product for your skin.
• It staves off signs of premature aging caused by sun damage, like wrinkles and leathery skin.
• It prevents sunburn – which can lead to your skin peeling painfully – and any undesirable skin pigmentation.
• If you’re on any medication or suffer from disorders that make your skin sensitive to the sun, sunscreen will protect your highly-sensitive skin from the damaging effects of UV rays.