We all love the outings, holidays in the shiny sun but on the other hand our skin also needs the sun protection. So to achieve it we need a sunscreen’s SPF (Sun Protection Factor) to protect our skin from sunburn, dryness or any other damage.
Types of UV rays
There are three kinds of UV rays but here we primarily discuss UVA and UVB rays, since UVC rays are bounced by the earth’s ozone layer
- UVA rays – It has the longest wavelength and is the main cause of tanning as they are able to penetrate into middle layer of your skin. They’re the ones that causes skin aging, skin cancer etc.
They make your skin darker as they trigger your subsurface melanocytes to produce melanin.
- UVB rays – As they have the shorter wavelengths they tend to be on the outer layer of the skin and causes skin burn and can also lead to the skin cancer.
What is PA+ in Sunscreen?
In addition to the sunscreen you must have seen the label PA+ written on the various sunscreen. It basically implies the “Protective Grade of UVA rays”.It measures the protection from UVA rays while SPF measures the protection from UVB rays.
The combination of both SPF and PA protects the skin from both the rays. Some level of PA are given below-
PA++++ (UVA protection-Very High)
PA+++ (UVA protection-High)
PA++ (UVA protection-Moderate)
PA+ (UVA protection-Some)
Which sunscreen is best Mineral or Chemical?
It totally depends on an individual and its skin type and how they like the product. There are two types and they both are explained below.
Chemical- They are more water resistant and provides broader coverage. It feels very light weighed and are more preferable when doing makeup or for daily use.
Mineral- This one acts as a barrier on the skin and are less likely to cause irritation or any allergy. It gives an immediate effect when compared to chemical sunscreen.
Sunscreen for Babies
- Children less than 6 months: Do not apply the sunscreen on these children else cover them with the long sleeve pants, shirts etc
- Children more than 6 months: Use the sunscreen that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide which is best and appropriate for the sensitive skin of toddlers or infants.
How to choose the right sunscreen?
To choose a right sunscreen the SPF variant plays an important role according to the climate change. Some of the variants of the sunscreen and their suitability are given below-
- SPF 15 to 30 -These sunscreens variant from 15 to 30 are used in a milder climate where there is a lower UV exposure. We can use it in places where there is less sunrays, less outdoors or when you are living in spring season. Lastly this variant provides an adequate amount of protection from sunrays.
- SPF 30 to 50– These sunscreens are highly recommended and is best in summers. It blocks 97-98 % of UVB rays which is far better to shield your skin from harmful rays.
The people with the fair and sensitive skin or the ones who spend there most of the time outdoors can use it as it offers the better protection from aging, skin cancer or any long term burn.
- SPF 50+ – For the maximum protection in the intense climates this variant is used. In extremely hot, sunny climate such as in deserts or high-altitude environment this provides an extra layer of protection to your skin against the heavy sunburn and skin damage. It provides the highest amount of blockage which is approximately 98% from the UVB rays.
How to apply?
Applying sunscreen in a right manner is really important to ensure the protection from sunrays.
- Firstly, select the right sunscreen for your skin
- Apply the sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going to outdoors so that it can absorb to your skin fully.
- Apply enough of it so that it can be effective to your skin.
- While applying it pay extra attention to the sensitive areas like neck, ears, top of feet etc
- Reapply the sunscreen after every 2-3 hours when there is lots of sunlight or when you are swimming or doing some water related activities.
After applying sunscreen what to do
- Wear the protective clothing like long shirt, hats, sunglasses etc
- Seek Shade whenever possible during the peak hours
- Protect lips from sunburn
- Avoid Tanning beds as they emit harmful radiations that can harm your skin very badly.
Still Confused, Which sunscreen to choose, A Last Suggestion-
You can use the Broad Spectrum sunscreen as it acts as a defender from both UVA and UVB rays emitted by the sun. The SPF 30 and above are usually considered this category.
While choosing a sunscreen product you should have both SPF and PA+ in it. Some additional factors like water resistant and broad spectrum protection can also be considered .
Remember to apply the sunscreen daily to keep your skin healthy and protected.
NOTE: No sunscreen can provide you 100% of protection from the UV rays