Sunscreens are promoted aggressively on different media, and rightly so. They are the key to preventing damage to the skin because of prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays. The regular use of sunscreen while outdoors helps in reducing sunburns, and wrinkles. Sunscreens act as the first line of defense against skin disorders by absorbing, reflecting, and scattering UV rays. (Skin Specialist In Gurgaon)

The harmful effect of Sunrays on our skin

Prolonged sun exposure results in short-term and long-term changes in the skin structure.

Short-term damage:

Sunburns

Tanning

Dryness

Discoloration

Change in texture- wrinkles etc

Long term damage:

Irreversible loss of skin elasticity

Skin cancer

Different types of sunscreens

There has been a significant rise in awareness of the risks associated with sunrays and that has spurred the scientific fraternity to work on better formulations for sunscreens.

Sunscreens can be broadly categorized as:

Organic aka chemical blockers

Inorganic aka physical blockers

Chemical Blockers Physical Blockers Action Absorb UV Rays Reflect UV Rays Composition Aminobenzoic acid, Avobenzone, Octisalate, Octocrylene, and Oxybenzone Zinc oxide or Titanium dioxide

Both types of sunscreens are equally safe to use.

SPF decoded

We often see SPF quoted on the sunscreen, and people tend to pick up a sunscreen with higher SPF. Let us understand what SPF means so you can make the right choice.

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. Its numerical value is an indication of the time taken by UV rays to redden your skin if you apply it as compared to the time taken without sunscreen protection.

For example: If you use SPF 15 sunscreen then the time taken to redden your skin will be 15 times more than what it takes without sunscreen. So opt for higher SPF if you are out for a longer duration in the sun.

Making the right choice of sunscreen

Now that you understand what SPF stands for, let us see what you should be looking for while buying a sunscreen

Protection against a broad spectrum of UV rays, both UVA and UVB type

SPF: SPF 15 is ideal for daily use or mild exposure. SPF 30 or higher is needed for prolonged exposure

Water-resistant: CA must for swimming and heavy exercise which results in high perspiration. Reapplication of sunscreen is required as it eventually wears off after an hour or so.(Skin Specialist In Gurgaon)

Hope this information was useful to you. If you are interested in finding out more about skin related issues and treatments then please click here and send a query to Alovia Clinic, or reach out to our expert Dr. Naren Parkash