Sunscreen is an essential part of a healthy skincare routine, and there are several reasons like protection from UV rays, prevents skin discoloration, preserving skin elasticity, and many more. But there are many myths and facts about Sunscreen and today we will discuss this, but first of all, we need to know why it’s important to use sunscreen.
There are several reasons & benefits why it is important to use sunscreen in India:
Protection against harmful UV radiation: India is a tropical country with high levels of sun exposure throughout the year. The sun emits harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can cause sunburn, premature aging of the skin, and increase the risk of skin cancer. Using sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) can help protect your skin from these harmful rays.
Prevention of skin damage: Sun damage can cause a range of skin problems, including wrinkles, age spots, and discoloration. It can help prevent this damage by blocking the harmful rays that cause it.
Protection from pollution: India is known for its high levels of air pollution, which can have a damaging effect on the skin. It can help protect the skin from the damaging effects of pollution, including fine particulate matter and other environmental pollutants.
Prevention of skin cancer: Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in India, mainly because of UV radiation. Using it regularly can help reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.
Overall, using sunscreen is an important part of maintaining healthy skin and protecting yourself from the harmful effects of UV radiation and pollution in India. It is recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and to reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
How to Choose a sunscreen?
When choosing a sunscreen, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you choose the right one for your skin type and needs. Here are some tips to help you choose sunscreen:
Check the SPF: The SPF (Sun Protection Factor) indicates how well it protects against UVB radiation, which is responsible for sunburn. A higher SPF means more protection, but it’s important to note that no sunscreen can provide 100% protection. It is recommended to choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Look for broad-spectrum protection: A broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVB and UVA radiation, which can cause skin aging and skin cancer. Look for a product that offers broad-spectrum protection to ensure you’re fully protected.
Consider your skin type: If you have sensitive skin or are prone to acne, choose a sunscreen that is non-comedogenic and fragrance-free. If you have dry skin, look for moisturizing ingredients in a product.
Check the ingredients: Avoid sunscreen that contains oxybenzone, a chemical that can be harmful to the environment. Instead, look for a product that uses zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as their active ingredients.
Check the expiry date: Sunscreens have an expiry date, and it’s important to use them before they expire. Check the date on the packaging and replace it every year.
Consider your activities: If you plan to swim or sweat, choose a water-resistant sunscreen that can withstand these activities. Remember to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
By considering these factors, you can choose a sunscreen that will protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation and keep your skin healthy and radiant.
Top 5 Myths & facts about Sunscreen
We all use sunscreens but still, there are several myths that can be misleading and can be potentially harmful. Here are some of the most common myths & their facts:
Myth: Sunscreen is not necessary on cloudy days or during the winter.
Fact: Clouds and snow do not fully protect your skin from harmful UV rays. If the day is cloudy, then still you have to use it because still for up to 80% of the sun’s rays can penetrate through the clouds and reach your skin. Therefore, it’s very important to wear sunscreen throughout the year.
Myth: The higher the SPF, the better the protection.
Fact: It’s true that SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is important, but it is not the only factor that determines the level of protection. SPF only measures protection from UVB rays, which cause sunburn, but not UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and cause long-term damage. So only choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects you from both UVA and UVB rays.
Myth: Sunscreen is harmful and can cause cancer.
Fact: The ingredients in sunscreen have been thoroughly tested and are safe for use. In fact, using sunscreen can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer by protecting the skin from UV damage. It’s important to choose what is appropriate for your skin type and needs and to apply it properly. Ultrasun is the most effective and trusted sunscreen brand worldwide.
Myth: Sunscreen only needs to be applied once a day.