Skin protection in Indian summers: SPF and beyond

Decoding sun rays and SPF strengths

Sunlight contains UV or Ultraviolet radiation including UVC, UVB, and UVA. They all are very dangerous as they penetrate the skin, causing damage. Not wearing sunscreen and protecting your skin from the sun increases the risk of sunburn, premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and even skin cancer. UV radiation can also damage your eyes and weaken your skin’s immune system. Using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade can help prevent these risks and maintain skin health.

1. The SPF or Sun Protection Factor measures the ability of sunscreen to protect against UVB rays.
2. However, it is crucial to search for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that guards your skin against both UVB and UVA rays.
3. You must apply sunscreen 15 to 20 minutes before you go outside.
4. However, you must choose the right SPF. SPF 15 can block 93% of UVB rays while SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays.

Types of sunscreens for Indian skin

Indian skin needs unique requirements and necessitates sunscreen that specifically addresses unique skin concerns. There are different types of sunscreen available including chemical sunscreen, physical sunscreen, mineral sunscreen, etc. All of them are suitable for Indian skin but you must pick the one as per your skin concern.

• Chemical sunscreen absorbs sun rays while physical sunscreen forms a barrier to deflect sun rays.
• Mineral sunscreen contains titanium oxide or zinc oxide which is recommended for its broad spectrum and is suitable for sensitive skin.

Factors to consider when choosing the best sunscreen for the face

Choosing the right sunscreen for your face can be a long process. It is because you have to consider a few things.

• Always search for a sunscreen that has SPT with at least 30 to provide enough protection.
• You must consider your skin type when buying sunscreen. Choose oil-free or non-comedogenic sunscreen for oily and acne-prone skin while going for moisture-based sunscreen for dry skin.
• If you swim or sweat a lot, purchase a water-resistant sunscreen.
• Choose sunscreen with a lightweight texture so that it blends smoothly.
• Check the longevity of the sunscreen so that you get long-lasting protection from the sun.
• You may consider tinted sunscreen to avoid white cast.

10 skincare tips

The summers in India have always been very intensive. Rashes, sunburn, dehydration, etc. are common in summer. But, if you take care of your skin properly, it will nourish and soothe your skin. Here are the 10 skincare tips:

1. Choose the most appropriate sunscreen and apply it daily twice or thrice. Search for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30.
2. Try to avoid going out during the peak hours when the UV rays of the sun are strongest between 11 A.M. and 3 P.M. Even if you have to go out, make sure to wear sunglasses, sunscreen, and other protection. Also, seek shade wherever possible.
3. You must stay hydrated to keep your skin in good condition. Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily to ignore clogged pores and breakouts.
4. Wash your face regularly as dead cells accumulate on your face and body’s skin because of extreme sun exposure and dust. Use gentle cleansers and scrubs so that they cannot take out the natural moisture from your skin.
5. In summer, never use oil-based products as they will make your skin look excessively oily. You can use products made with tea tree, vitamin C, etc.
6. Never put too much makeup on your face in summer. It makes you sweat more and more uncomfortable.
7. Wear light-coloured, breathable, cotton clothes to avoid skin irritations and sweat. You can go for mostly covered clothes this time.
8. Look at your diet and balance it by adding more vegetables, fruits, etc. It will help your skin rejuvenate from within.
9. Always take cool showers to maintain body temperature. Also, it will soothe your skin and reduce inflammation and redness on skin.
10. You must also protect your lips and use an SPF lip balm even if you are indoors. Also, avoid matte lipstick this time and go for the glossy ones.

Conclusion

Prioritizing your skin in Indian summer is important. It is not only just slathering on sunscreen. It is beyond that. So, keep the tips in mind and stay protected and stylish at the same time.