Summer is here, and so is the sun. While spending time outdoors is great for your health and wellbeing, excessive exposure to the sun can cause damage to your skin. That’s where sunscreen comes in.

Sunscreen is an essential part of your skincare routine, protecting your skin from harmful UV rays that can cause sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer.

Understanding SPF

The first step in choosing the right sunscreen is understanding what SPF means. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, which measures the level of protection the sunscreen offers against UVB rays.

UVB rays are the ones that cause sunburn and damage the skin’s outer layers. While SPF 15 is the minimum level of protection you should look for, dermatologists recommend using a minimum of SPF 30.

Choosing the Right Type of Sunscreen

There are two types of sunscreen – chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays, while physical sunscreens work by reflecting the rays.

Both types can be effective, but some people prefer physical sunscreens as they are less likely to cause skin irritation. Here are the factors to consider when choosing between the two:.

Skin Type

Your skin type plays a crucial role in determining the right type of sunscreen. If you have sensitive skin, look for a physical sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

These ingredients are less likely to cause irritation and are perfect for people with eczema or rosacea. If you have oily skin, a lighter formula that absorbs quickly may be best. Chemical sunscreens may work better in these cases.

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Activities

The type of activities you plan to do outdoors also plays a role in choosing the right sunscreen. If you plan to swim or sweat, look for a waterproof formula.

If you plan to spend time active outdoors, such as cycling, hiking, or running, a lightweight, sweat-resistant formula will prevent the sunscreen from running into your eyes and irritating them.

Ingredients

Read the label carefully and look for active ingredients that block both UVA and UVB rays. The most common ingredients are avobenzone, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and Mexoryl SX.

You should also avoid sunscreens with alcohol, which can dry out your skin, and fragrances, which can irritate your skin. Look for a sunscreen that contains antioxidants, which help fight free radicals that cause premature aging.

How to Apply Sunscreen Properly

Applying sunscreen correctly is just as important as choosing the right sunscreen. Here are the steps to follow:.

1. Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before going outside so that it has enough time to absorb into your skin.
2. Use enough sunscreen to cover all exposed skin. You should use about one ounce of sunscreen, which is roughly the amount that fits in your palm.
3. Reapply every two hours, especially if you are swimming or sweating. If you are not sweating or have not been swimming, you should still reapply your sunscreen every two hours, as UV rays can still penetrate your skin even if you do not see visible signs of sunburn.
4. Do not forget to apply sunscreen to your ears, neck, and other places that are commonly overlooked, such as the tops of your feet and scalp.

Conclusion

Choosing the right sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

By understanding SPF, choosing the right type of sunscreen, looking for the right ingredients, and applying sunscreen properly, you can ensure that you are properly protected while enjoying the great outdoors.