How to Pick the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin Type!

To step outside & bask freely in the sun, shielding our skin with a high-quality sunscreen becomes very vital. While the market is flooded with too many options, it's so important to choose the right option as per our unique skin type & requirements. Let’s understand &  have a look at the top 5 significant factors to consider before choosing your sunscreen this summer-

1) Use a Broad Spectrum Sunscreen

While any sunscreen is better than no sunscreen at all, expert dermatologists suggest a broad spectrum sunscreen that gives protection from both ultraviolet rays i.e. UVA & UVB rays.

As per a survey conducted by Researchers at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, people only consider “SPF” as the major factor when buying sunscreen. SPF only measures UVB rays and it does not measure a sunscreen’s ability to give protection against UVA rays. So, considering PA along with other factors becomes equally important.

2) Go for a sunscreen with a Higher SPF

SPF is basically a grade used to rate the level of protection against UVB Rays. The higher the SPF, Higher will provide the UVB protection.

Choosing a sunscreen with a higher SPF can assure you more protection and prevent your skin from getting sunburned, which is not only painful but also increases your risk of developing skin cancer. If you travel more frequently & are exposed to the sun on a daily basis, go for SPF 30 or higher. But if you stay indoors & spend lesser time outdoors, you can go for SPF 15-20.

3) Always consider the PA Factor

While SPF in sunscreen measures protection from UVB rays, PA on the other hand stands for "Protection Grade of UVA." 

Considering PA Factor is equally important as SPF. PA measures the level of protection a sunscreen provides against UVA radiation, which can cause long-term skin damage such as premature ageing and skin cancer. The PA rating system uses "+" signs to indicate the level of UVA protection, with more "+" signs indicating higher protection. 

4) Consider your Skin type

Knowing your skin type is a prerequisite to finding the perfect sunscreen for you!

If your skin is dry, go for a moisturizer or lotion based  sunscreen having hydrating ingredients. 

If you have oily skin, you should go for a lightweight formula or gel-based sunscreen. Choosing any creamy sunscreen would not be a good option. 

People having normal skin types can go for any high-quality sunscreen whether it's in spray, gel, stick or lotion form.

5) Go for a Water-Resistant Sunscreen

Applying a water-resistant sunscreen is always a good idea as it provides protection against harmful UV Rays from the sun & is formulated to remain effective even after exposure to water, moisture and sweat. Such sunscreen will maintain its protection while you swim or sweat. 

It's worth noting that no sunscreen is completely waterproof or sweatproof, and even water-resistant sunscreens can lose their effectiveness over time, especially if not reapplied as instructed on the label. So, it's essential to use sunscreen as part of a comprehensive sun protection plan that includes wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and avoiding the sun during peak hours.