Let us face it, in a country like India sunscreen is an absolute indispensable tool to battle the damaging effects of harmful UVA/ UVB rays. Summers here are more than scorching and just 10 minutes of sun exposure is enough to tan your skin by up to 2-3 shades and trigger a host of skin related issues. When it comes to sunscreens, there are options galore. Choosing the right sunscreen is important but its correct application is equally significant to protect your skin against sun damage. Let us take a look at some of the key factors shared by the American Academy of Dermatology that you must keep handy while buying a sunblock for yourself.
- Sunscreens protect our skin against sunburn, sun damage, wrinkles and even age spots.
- Choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
- SPF (Sun protection factor) is the ability of a sunscreen to filter out a certain percentage of harmful UVB rays from penetrating your skin.
- SPF 30 effectively filters out close to 97% of harmful rays.
- No sunscreen can filter out 100% of UBV rays.
- Look for the term 'broad spectrum' on your sunscreen. This means the sunscreen can protect you from both UVB/A rays.
- UVA rays cause premature ageing while UVB rays cause sunburn.
- Overexposure to these harmful sun rays can lead to skin cancers.
- Opt for water resistant sunscreen. No sunscreen is water-proof. These can only stay up to 40-80 minutes on a sweaty/ greasy surface until you reapply.
- You must reapply your sunscreen every two hours.
- Sunscreen must be reapplied immediately after swimming or sweating.
- People with sensitive skin must go for sunscreens that only contain titanium dioxide or zinc dioxide. Avoid sunscreen with oils, fragrance and para aminobenzoic acid.
Always remember, sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor against skin cancers. Choose your sunscreen wisely. Visit a certified dermatologist to know which type would be the best buy for your skin condition. Keep your skin covered when exposed to sun.