Sunscreen is an inevitable part of everyone's daily skincare routine. One can't think of going outside without applying it. It is not just a sunscreen but an anti-aging cream as well and can shield the skin in the best possible way. The market is filled with numerous options; it's up to you to pick the right one for you. There are a few things that you should consider while buying sunscreen, some of which are mentioned below.
Factors You Should Consider While Buying A Sunscreen
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Sun Protection Factor
The higher the SPF number, the more the protection from harmful Sun rays (UVA and UVB both). This number tells you the number of times it protects you from the sun as compared to when you go out without sunscreen. Hence, the sunscreen with SPF 15 can shield your skin 15 times more as compared to the time when stayed without sunscreen. An SPF 30 sunscreen is considered as best for Indian summers and it protects our skin from 97% of the UV rays.
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Look for the term 'Broad Spectrum'
You must look at the ingredients of the sunscreen you are going to purchase. The mineral sunscreen uses natural minerals like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to reflect the UV rays whereas the chemical sunscreen uses chemical compounds for providing broad-spectrum protection. Don't forget to look for the term 'broad-spectrum' on it. It means that the sunscreen protects you from UVA as well as UVB rays.
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Confirm your skin type matches the sunscreen
Sunscreens are made up of different ingredients that are suitable for different skin types. So it's better for you to check your skin type and choose sunscreen accordingly.
People with dry skin shall look for ingredients like oils, glycerin, and silicones whereas people with oily skin shall opt for lightweight or gel-based sunscreen. People with sensitive skin shall go for fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and preservative-free sunscreen.
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Goes well with your makeup and sweat
Be sure that the sunscreen you buy is water-resistant. When you go out in the Sun, you tend to get sweat in a climate like that of India. So it is essential to get sweat-proof and waterproof sunscreen to get the best out of it.
Moreover, it happens numerous times that you need to apply makeup during the daytime and go. To help yourself in such a case, buy a makeup setting spray with SPF for those repetitions throughout the day.
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Go alcohol and PABA free
PABA is commonly known as para-aminobenzoic acid. It, when applied to the skin, may cause allergy, skin irritation, or even pigmentation. You must also avoid sunscreen containing alcohol, especially if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies or acne. Even if you can't avoid alcohol completely, try to get the product that contains alcohol in minimum quantity.
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Purchase in stock
Sunscreens don't work if applied in small quantities. Hence, if you tend to go outside frequently and for a longer duration, you need to reapply it. This way, you consume the sunscreen in higher quantities. Sunscreens easily have a shelf-life of two to three years, hence, you can buy in bulk to make it economical.
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Choose the type of sunscreen
There are two types of sunscreen available depending on their functioning, physical and chemical. Physical sunscreen leaves a white cast on the face after application whereas chemical ones can be easily rubbed and absorbed into the skin.
The physical sunscreen blocks and reflects the sun rays and starts working instantly whereas the chemical sunscreen goes deep into the skin and absorbs the rays. This takes some time to start working and hence, to be applied 15-20 minutes before going outside.
Which product to go for?
Sunscreen Enriched with Aloe Vera Extract
Broad-spectrum sunscreens are a must to have and use whether you go outside or remain at home. If you want to avoid sunburns and tanning, sunscreens are the best shield for your skin. Ideally, sunscreen with SPF 30 is preferred by a majority of people.
Aloe vera is also good for the skin and our sunscreen has the features of both, a normal sunscreen and aloe vera. Hence, it nourishes the skin and protects it from UV rays, early signs of aging, and also from deadly diseases like cancer.