Worried For Sun Tan? Protect Your Skin This Summer With Tips Shared By Shahnaz Husain

The summer season is upon us, and it means a skincare routine to protect our skin from the damage of the sun's rays. Exposure to sunlight often leads to burn marks, tanning and other adverse effects on the dermal layer.

When the skin gets exposed to sunlight for a long duration, the effects can be long-term. Some can even experience dark spots, pigmentation and premature signs of ageing like wrinkles and fine lines.

Therefore, as a skin and beauty expert, I often advise people to use broad-spectrum sunscreen that can shield them from the UVA and UVB damage caused by the sun.

How Does Sunscreen Work?

Long exposure to sunlight also causes the skin to lose its moisture. However, many sunscreens now come with built-in hydration. Hence, before stepping out, you must apply sunscreen as well as moisturiser. It can be a helpful hack for people with dry skin.

Sunscreen works by creating a protective layer between the skin and the sun, much like how the ozone layer protects the Earth. When you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen, it offers extra protection from UVA and UVB rays.

Role Of SPF In Choosing Sunscreen

Another aspect of the sunscreen that you must look into is its SPF (Sun Protection Factor) count. Most sunscreens mention this factor on the label. It is related to the skin sensitivity of an individual and the duration of exposure to the sun.

For most skin types, SPF 20 or 25 is an adequate amount. However, if your skin is sensitive and prone to allergic reactions to the sun like redness, patches and dark spots, you can look for a product with an SPF higher than 30 or even 40. These days, there are skincare products available with SPF 50 and 60 too.

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Pick The Sunscreen According To Skin Type

I recommend that you consider your skin type before picking up sunscreen. These days, both sunscreens and sunblocks are available in lotion and cream textures. Such products are helpful for people with dry skin because they are loaded with hydrating components. However, wait a few minutes after applying the sunscreen to add a layer of moisturiser.

If you have normal or oily skin texture, you should go for an oil-free sunscreen gel to prevent breakouts and pores from clogging.

Difference Between Sunscreens And Sunblocks

People often get confused between sunscreens and sunblocks. Sunblocks have active ingredients that create a barrier between your skin and the sun by reflecting UV rays, whereas, sunscreens absorb the UV rays before they can reach the skin and cause damage.

You have to be cautious while using sunblock because it can leave behind a white residue. Athletes and sportspersons use it.

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Where To Apply The Sunscreen

You should apply sunscreen on all the exposed areas of the body like face, neck, and arms. Apply the product 15-20 minutes before you step out in the sun. If you have been outside for more than an hour, you should re-apply. I also suggest avoiding being in the sun between 12:00- 3:00 pm.

You should also apply sunscreen while swimming, exploring hill stations and enjoying on a beach. Not many people know that reflective surfaces like water and snow can increase the effects of UV rays. Keep your skin protected this summer season by investing in good sunscreen.