Sunscreens are essential products that act as a barrier to shield our skin from the sun’s harmful rays.  Sun exposure can cause a range of skin issues, from immediate effects like sunburn to long-term damage including skin cancers and accelerated aging. Sunscreens work to block the sun's harmful UV rays either by reflecting or absorbing them. Inorganic sunscreens contain natural minerals like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that reflect sunlight away from the skin. On the other hand, organic sunscreens use organic compounds. (like avobenzone and oxybenzone) to absorb UV radiation, preventing it from causing damage to our skin. Most sunscreens on the market today are combination sunscreens, which means they incorporate both inorganic and organic blocking agents to offer broad-spectrum protection. Sunscreens is a must-have in daily skincare routine. They should be applied not just on beach or sunny days but also on cloudy days, as UV rays can penetrate clouds.

Choosing Sunscreens: Key Considerations

• SPF (Sun protection factor):

  SPF measures how effectively a sunscreen can protect your skin from UVB rays, which are the primary cause of sunburn. While no sunscreen offers 100% protection, a higher SPF number indicates more effective coverage against UVB rays. SPF 15 blocks absorb about 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks absorb about 97%, and SPF 50 blocks absorb approximately 98%. Although higher SPF ratings provide slightly more protection, SPF 30 is generally sufficient for daily use.

• PA (Protection grade of UVA):

  It measures the product’s ability to block UVA rays, which are the primary cause of premature ageing & skin cancer. The grading system for PA rating ranges from PA+ to PA++++ , where PA+ offers 40-50% protection, PA++ provides 60-70% protection, PA+++ provides 90% protection & PA++++ provides 95% protection. Although higher PA provide more protection, PA+++ is generally sufficient.

• Broad-Spectrum Protection:

  Look for sunscreens that offer broad-spectrum protection, which shields the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are primarily responsible for aging and can penetrate deep into the skin, while UVB rays cause sunburn.

• Skin Type:

  Choose a sunscreen that suits your skin type to avoid irritation and ensure effectiveness. For sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are ideal as they are less irritating and block UV rays by sitting on top of the skin. Those with oily skin may prefer water-based or gel sunscreens that won't clog pores.

• Water Resistance:

  If you are active outdoors, swim, or sweat, choose a water-resistant sunscreen. Keep in mind that reapplication is necessary after swimming or sweating, even if the sunscreen is water-resistant.

Application Tips:

To maximize the benefits of sunscreens, the following tips should be followed :

• Timing:

  Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before you go outdoors to allow it time to fully bind to the skin.

• Order of Application:

  If you use moisturizer and makeup, here’s how to layer:

  • First, apply your daily moisturizer. Wait for a minute or two until it is fully absorbed.
  • Second, apply sunscreen over the moisturizer.
  • Third, if you wear makeup, apply it last. This helps ensure that the sunscreen can properly protect your skin.

• Amount:

  Use either the teaspoon rule—applying about one teaspoon of sunscreen to cover the face, head, and neck—or follow the American Academy of Dermatology's guideline of 2mg per square centimeter of sunscreen.

• Frequency:

  Reapply sunscreen every two hours, and more frequently if you are swimming, sweating, or drying off with a towel. Always reapply after water activities or excessive sweating.

Sunscreens are essential for protection from the sun, but they don't stop all UV radiation—no sunscreen can block 100%. Therefore, it's important to adopt additional protective strategies.

Disclaimer: This article is only for general patient information and is not intended for self medication. There is no legal liability of IADVL arising out of any adverse consequence to the patient. Subsequent to its use for self treatment of the disease images adjust for the depiction of the condition and is not to be used for any other purpose.