Masks, Toners, Serums, Mark Correction Creams, the market is swamped with a wide variety of skincare products. Few of us would have our shelves lined up with a variety of skin products, but others would have only a few of the essential products. Whether you're the one who has a whole arsenal of overflowing products or just a few, sunscreen for the face is non-negotiable: a product helps you look good but saves you from skin cancer which is caused due to prolonged exposure to UV radiation.

Since sunscreen for the face should be in your everyday skincare lineup even while cooped up indoors, and before you run and stock up a pile of sunscreens, it's essential to know your skin type. It's a known fact, to wear sunscreen is best in protecting your skin from harsh UV rays. To help you choose and correctly use the best product for your needs, below are facts:

1. Better to use broad-spectrum sunscreens 

- Ultraviolet A (UVA) Rays: Causes premature skin ageing leading to wrinkles. 

- Ultraviolet B (UVB) Rays: Most dangerous; causes sunburns.

Overexposure to the above rays can cause skin cancer. Sunscreens labelled as "broad spectrum" help protect against UVA and UVB rays.

2. Buy Sunscreen with a minimum of 30 SPF 

A sunscreen's sun protection factor (SPF) indicates the product's protection against UV radiation. Sunscreens of 30 SPF blocks 97 per cent of the UV rays.

3. There are no waterproof sunscreen or sweatproof

Products are now labelled:

- Water Resistant: Effective for around 40 minutes in water

- Very Water Resistant: Effective for approximately 80 minutes in water

It is recommended to reapply sunscreen every two hours after getting out of the water or sweating.

4. Use "Teaspoon and Shot Glass Rule", how much sunscreen to apply

Many people do not apply enough sunscreen lotion. The recommendation is to use one teaspoon of sunscreen to cover the face and neck and sunscreen should be enough to fill a shot glass to cover all other exposed areas on the body.

 Fact 5: Sunscreen expires

 All sunscreens must maintain their original form for at least three years. Many sunscreens have an expiration date printed on the label, and visible changes in colour or consistency indicate that the product should be disposed of.

Fact 6: Spray-on sunscreens are easy to use but not always effective

Individuals who like to spray on sunscreen should use an adequate amount and rub it to cover all areas exposed thoroughly. Sunscreen lotions give you better control in accessing the quantity required.

Fact 7: Purchase sunscreen according to your skin type.

While purchasing sunscreen, it's vital to know your skin type. 

For oily skin folks, the thing to keep in mind is don't go on and buy yourself heavy creamy sunscreen; the last thing you want is to damage your skin further, which is greasy and chalky. Fortunately, sunscreens are available in the matte version.

Besides, there are variants available of sunscreen for dry skin, which helps provide extra moisture to the skin & keeps it looking more radiant & youthful. 

Try Sunscreen With Smytten

Get free sunscreen product trials on Smytten. If you've ever wanted to try something new but weren't sure if it was the right choice, we've got you covered. Choose from sunscreen-free trials from the brands that you love and find your favourites. Discover the best of sunscreen today!

Reasons Why You Should Try Sunscreen Before You Buy it

- You don't know your exact skin type.

- You'd like to see if a product fits in your routine.

- You want to experience similar products at the same time.

- You're curious to find the perfect match for your skin.

- You'd like to switch things up but don't know where to start.

FAQs

1. Should children under six months wear sunscreen?

Infant skin is more sensitive than adult skin. To protect their skin, the recommendation is to keep babies under shade as much as possible and dress them in protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat. 

2. Is sunscreen safe to use?

 There has been no substantial evidence to show any harmful effects of sunscreen. It is essential to wear sunscreen to reduce sun damage to the skin & to prevent skin cancers.

3. Are there separate sunscreens for men?

There are sunscreens available for men. Men should wear sunscreen lotion to protect their skin from sun damage & skin cancers caused due to overexposure to UV radiation. SPF 30 and above is advisable for men.