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 essential. While the market is flooded with options, it's important to choose the right one based on your unique skin type & requirements. Let’s look at the top 5 significant factors to consider before choosing your sunscreen this summer-

1) Use a Broad Spectrum Sunscreen

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While any sunscreen is better than none, dermatologists suggest a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects from both 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 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 a rating used to determine the level of protection against UVB Rays. The higher the SPF, the more UVB protection it provides.

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 frequently 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 essential 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. People with normal skin can use any high-quality sunscreen, whether it's in spray, gel, stick, or lotion form.

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 wise, as it remains effective 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 sweat proof, So, sunscreen should be used as part of a full sun protection routine that includes shade, clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours, 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.