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If there’s one skincare product that you need all year round, it ought to be sunscreen. It is your best defense against the sun’s dangerous rays, especially during the summer months. The regular use of sunscreen not only minimises your risk of developing skin cancer but also has the additional benefits of reducing painful sunburns and preventing signs of ageing, such as fine lines and wrinkles.
Today, there are a variety of sunscreen products in the market, so if you’re not sure how to choose the best sunscreen, fret not. We got you covered. Read on to find out.
Dr Manjot Marwah, a dermatologist and skincare educator, took to Instagram to share her insights on the topic. “In India, our skin is under constant pressure because of the sun’s rays. There are UVA and UVB rays and we need to protect our skin. So, I’m going to be telling you about the three types of sunscreens available in the market and how should you choose which one is suitable for you,” she said.
First, there are the physical or mineral sunscreens, also known as sunblock. Explaining what they are, Dr Marwah said, “As the name suggests, they block the sun rays and were the first UV filters that were ever available. You can identify them by their ingredient it, which is zinc oxide and titanium oxide. They are thick and creamy in texture, and take some time to blend in.”
On similar lines, Dr Indur Ramchandani, Director, Dermatology, Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre said, “Physical sunscreens, also commonly called mineral sunscreens, sit atop the skin rather than absorbing into it. They create a barrier on the skin’s surface that reflects UV rays to prevent damage and sunburns.”
Second are chemical sunscreens. “You can identify them easily from their ingredient list and texture. They are very easily available; however, they are not suitable for pregnant women, babies and breastfeeding women. They are known for their light texture,” Dr Marwah continued.
Adding to this, Dr Ramchandani said, “Chemical sunscreen absorbs into the skin and then absorbs UV rays, converts the rays into heat, and releases them from the body.”
Lastly, there are hybrid sunscreens. Talking about this, Dr Marwah said, “They are the most popular and common sunscreens available in the market. Their ingredient list contains a combination of the physical and chemical filters. They are easy to spread and do not give a white cast. The texture is usually light, and they blend quickly too.”
Dr Ramchandani noted that hybrid sunscreens are another approach and typically used to achieve the broad-spectrum designation. “These are sunscreens that protect against both UVA and UVB rays, and are dependent on the actives used in the product,” he added.
What to keep in mind when choosing a sunscreen
According to Dr Ramchandani, when selecting a sunscreen, make sure the label says:
*Broad spectrum: The words “broad spectrum” means that the sunscreen can protect your skin from both types of harmful UV rays — the UVA rays and the UVB rays.
*SPF 30 or higher: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that you select a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30 or higher.
*Water resistant: Dermatologists also recommend that you look for the words “water resistant.” This tells you that the sunscreen will stay on wet or sweaty skin for a while before you need to reapply. Water resistance lasts either 40 or 80 minutes. Not all sunscreens offer water resistance.
Which sunscreen is most suitable for you?
Talking about this, Dr Sarika Holmukhe, Consulting Dermatologist, at DR. SKINN CLINIC said, “Physical sunscreens are generally less irritating and more suitable for individuals with sensitive skin types. Due to their formulation, physical sunscreens tend to provide additional moisture to the skin. However, this can sometimes make them feel heavier on the skin.”
On the other hand, she said that chemical sunscreens are quick and easy to apply, making them convenient for regular use. “Unlike mineral sunscreens, chemical sunscreens do not leave a white film or cast on the skin after application. Moreover, they typically demonstrate better performance in consumer tests that assess the duration of protection against UV rays.”
Dr Holmukhe also mentioned that chemical sunscreens can sometimes cause irritation and a burning sensation, particularly for those with sensitive skin. “Hybrid sunscreens, on the other hand, offer an improved experience, minimising the likelihood of such discomfort, even for individuals prone to burning and irritation,” she said.
Concluding, the expert said that consider your skin type when choosing a sunscreen. “People with oily or acne-prone skin should look for lightweight, oil-free and non-comedogenic sunscreens designed specifically for their skin type. As for individuals with dry or sensitive skin, choose a sunscreen that provides both sun protection and hydration. Look for moisturising sunscreens with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin or ceramides. Opt for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formulations to minimise the risk of irritation.”
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