Sunscreen is not an essential for a beach lover only. It’s something the outdoor lunch fan, the rooftop yogi, the shopaholic and a mom running chores in the house should all consider. But how about its efficacy? How far can that morning coat of sunscreen last???

When it comes to sunscreen there’s an endless list of queries. Nevertheless, as reinstated by most skincare enthusiasts, sunscreen gives you the best skin protection from sun. 

We have drafted a guide for you to probe into the world of sunscreen, what is the best sun protection for face, its different types, its use in daily life and its effectiveness. Read on to learn more. 

Rain or Shine-Daily Defense

Be it rainy or sunny, hot or cold you must wear sunscreen every single day. This is because the UV rays that cause premature aging and skin cancer are always there irrespective of the clouds or the temperature. 

Though these ultraviolet rays have a short wavelength they penetrate deep within your skin layers to cause a burning sensation. Thus, causing skin breakdown and premature aging. This explains why is sunscreen good for your face.

You must also be aware that UV rays can also penetrate through the windows. This means when you are just relaxing in your room or driving these UV rays are likely to affect your skin. So, sunscreen is a must to provide the best skin protection from sun. 

The Sunscreen Spectrum

To choose the best long-lasting sunscreen for face , it's important to understand its types. Broadly speaking there are two categories of sunscreen namely physical and chemical. Physical sunscreen forms a barrier on your skin whereas chemical sunscreens are only effective when absorbed into your skin. Both physical and chemical sunscreens possess a broad spectrum and offer protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays. 

Shelf Life of Sunscreen

Generally, sunscreens tend to have an expiry date and there’s no point of using them past that date. So, you must consider certain factors to understand to choose the best sunscreen for your skin. Some elements that make the sunscreen less potent than originally intended include heat exposure for instance when you leave it in your hot car or by the poolside. 

Chemical sunscreens usually comprise ingredients such as avobenzone and oxybenzone which then oxidize to become less effective with time. Zinc and titanium are common constituents of mineral sunscreens which are more stable. Yet, their formulation can also damage over time causing unraveling of ingredients and causing the lotion to get watery and grainy and thus ineffective. 

Besides recurrent opening and closing of the bottle can cause bacteria build-up inside the lotion inflicting chaos on your skin. If you apply sunscreen regularly you should check the labels of your bottles before they reach the expiry date. In case you have been using sunscreen for a year, it means you are not using enough for your skin. 

When to Toss that Bottle?

If a summer has passed and you are not over with one bottle of sunscreen then you are not applying it often or as big heartedly as recommended. We would suggest a tablespoon for your face and a full glass shot for your body every two hours or more commonly if you swim or sweat even if it is water resistant. You shouldn’t notice any alterations in the consistency. 

If there’s any graininess or clomping the sunscreen is probably not at its projected potency. Moreover, when you sense a funny smell, it’s a sign of bacterial contamination. There shouldn’t be any space for benefit of doubt, just replace the bottle. 

What is the Perfect Dose?

To choose the best sunscreen for your skin it's essential you understand the correct dose. Sunscreen of at least SPF 30 should be smeared on all areas of your skin that are exposed to the sun like your face, chest, neck, hands and ears. 

To Reapply or Not to Reapply?

It is best to reapply your sunscreen on a two-hourly basis. Though if you swim or tend to sweat a lot then you must do it sooner. Also, don’t buy into products labeled as water-resistant as there’s nothing that’s water proof. 

Finding the Ideal SPF

For sunscreens, an SPF of 50 is ideal for use. In fact, anything above 40 should do well for your skin. But bear in mind that the higher the SPF the thicker will be the sunscreen. However, there are some contemporary sunscreens which are lightweight regardless of the SPF and effortlessly permeable too. 

The Final Verdict

Your skin is precious and undoubtedly deserves the best! Understanding the right type and application of sunscreen is essential to get the maximum benefits. Hope you enjoyed reading our guide. Wear that sunscreen and take charge of your skin health!