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Ingredients To Look For In Sunscreen: We understand the significance of sunscreen and its role in protecting our skin from severe rays of the sun. In India, the climate is predominantly sunny and hot, so it’s even more crucial to apply sunscreen, even when you are not stepping out. Applying sunscreen is a cardinal rule of skincare and it is also essential to understand how to pick the right sunscreen, what ingredients go into it etc. Indian skin, owing to its elevated melanin levels, naturally possesses greater defence against the sun's detrimental effects in contrast to Caucasian and other types of skin nonetheless it is mandatory to ensure sufficient sun protection.

Dr Aparna Santhanam Dermatologist & Skin Expert at ITC Dermafique listed some imortant things to keep in mind before choosing your sunscreen. 

Key Ingredients To Look For Before Buying Sunscreen

Understanding Ingredients

The significance of sunscreen has grown in recent years. It not only aids in sun protection but also in preventing pigmentation and premature ageing. According to Dr Santhanam, "Consider sunscreen as your shield against pigmentation and ageing. Simply by using sunscreen regularly, you can maintain the health and youthfulness of your skin. When selecting a sunscreen, it is essential to look at the Sun Protection Factor (or SPF), which measures a sunscreen's ability to protect against UVB rays.

A sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while an SPF of 50 blocks about 98%. Ultimately, consider the texture and feel of the sunscreen and choose the one that works well with your skin type. Sunscreens are now available in various textures, formulas, and SPF levels, making it easier for everyone to pick.”

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Broader And Better

Different types of sunlight exist, with UVA and UVB being the most harmful to our skin. UVB rays cause sunburn, while UVA rays accelerate skin ageing, resulting in wrinkles and age spots. A broad-spectrum sunscreen shields against both types of rays. UVB protection is quantified by the SPF (Sun Protection Factor), while UVA protection is indicated by the PA rating, measured in plus signs.

Ingredients To Look For In Sunscreen (Image Credits: Canva)

Water-Resistant

Water-resistant sunscreen is essential for ensuring effective protection against the sun's harmful rays, particularly during water activities and in humid conditions. These sunscreens are designed to maintain their efficacy even when exposed to water, sweat, or high levels of humidity, providing reliable coverage to prevent sunburn and skin damage.

Their ability to adhere well to the skin's surface ensures prolonged protection, reducing the need for frequent reapplication, which is especially beneficial during extended periods of water exposure. Whether you’re swimming, playing sports, or simply sweating under the sun, water-resistant sunscreen offers peace of mind and helps maintain healthy skin by shielding it from the adverse effects of UV radiation.

UV Radiation And Its Effects

UV radiation from the sun can inflict various damaging effects on the skin. It can cause sunburn, and premature ageing such as wrinkles and fine lines, and contribute to the development of skin cancer. Dr Santhanam adds, “It's crucial to recognize that solar radiation beyond the UV spectrum also poses significant risks. Visible radiation, constituting 50% of sunlight and penetrating deep into the hypodermis, contributes to half of the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS)2. 

Additionally, Infrared radiation, comprising 45% of sunlight reaching the skin, further emphasises the necessity for sunscreen protection. Most sunscreen formulations primarily shield against UV radiation. Increasingly, it's imperative to broaden our interventions to mitigate the comprehensive spectrum of solar-induced cellular damage."

Ingredients To Look For In Sunscreen (Image Credits: Canva)

Know Your Skin Type

While there is no evidence to support whether mineral or chemical sunscreens work better, understanding your skin type is paramount before applying sunscreen. Individuals with oily skin oftentimes avoid using sunscreens, as some sunscreens leave the skin feeling oilier. They may prefer oil-free or non-comedogenic formulas to prevent breakouts. Secondly, certain skin types, such as fair or sensitive skin, may require higher SPF levels or specific ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide for enhanced protection against UV radiation. 

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Dr Santhanam states, “Different skin types have varying levels of sensitivity and reactivity. Understanding your skin type ensures that you choose a sunscreen that effectively meets your skin's needs, providing optimal protection and minimising the risk of adverse reactions or discomfort.” To ensure your skin is prepped for the season, keep these few pointers in mind while choosing your sunscreen this summer.