WHY SHOULD YOU WEAR AND RE-APPLY SUNSCREEN
Do we need to apply sunscreen? Applying sunscreen just once a day before you step out must be enough right, well sadly its not! You guys must be like, What? But yes, sunscreen is meant to be applied every two hours throughout the day to keep your skin safe in the sun. Not only its important to wear sunscreen daily but its also important to re-apply throughout the day. But how do we apply it over the makeup without smearing it? Or even on bare face when you are busy working and traveling! Don’t worry, that’s what I am here for, to give you a guide on why should you wear sunscreen and how to re-apply it without any hassle.
WHAT IS SUNSCREEN?
Sunscreen is a product that helps prevent the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation from reaching the skin which can damage the skin, age it prematurely, and increase your risk of skin cancer. There are two types of ultraviolet radiation, UVA and UVB. While UVA is associated with wrinkling, leathering, sagging, and other light-induced effects of aging, UVB is the cause behind the sunburn. Sunscreen products has a label named SPF (Sun Protection Factor) which lists the amount of number like SPF 15, 30 that indicates the degree of sunburn protection provided by sunscreens. SPF 15 filters out approximately 93 percent of all incoming UVB rays, SPF 30 keeps out 97 percent and SPF 50 keeps out 98 percent. Also, look out for a broad spectrum while choosing a sunscreen to prevent from both UVA and UVB.
CHEMICAL VS PHYSICAL SUNSCREEN
Physical Sunscreen or mineral based sunscreen uses zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (or both) to reflect the sun’s rays. The minerals act like mirrors to reflect both UVA and UVB rays and is broad spectrum protection by nature. Because this type of sunscreen stays on the surface of the skin, it is less likely to cause irritation and allergic reactions. Physical sunscreen is considered as inorganic because it is not a carbon based compound. It works as soon as you apply it and it is less likely to clog pores, so ideal for those with acne and sensitive skin. Most of the physical sunscreens leaves a white cast because of its formula.
Chemical Sunscreen work by absorbing the sun’s rays and are the most common kind of sunscreen. The molecules in chemical sunscreen absorb UV radiation through their chemical bonds and slowly breaks down and release heat. Chemical sunscreen is considered organic because they contain carbon-based ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octisalate. It can also provide broad spectrum coverage by combining multiple ingredients such as zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. It must be applied 15-20 minutes prior to sun exposure to allow the chemical time to work. It is more likely to cause irritation as it penetrates into the skin.
I don’t agree that physical sunscreen is better for you or vice-versa. It really depends on your skin sensitivity and how fast you react to the products. While its recommended to use physical sunscreen to avoid irritation, I never had a problem using a chemical sunscreen despite having an acne prone skin. I recommend doing a patch test to avoid any reactions and get the one which works for you.
HOW TO RE-APPLY SUNSCREEN
As I mentioned earlier you should re-apply sunscreen every 2 hrs to protect your skin in the sun. Trust me, your skin will thank you! And you should apply sunscreen in every season, yes even in winnter. Harmful UV rays are always present, even when the sun isn’t shining, so don’t skip! I love love love Supergoop Defense Refresh Setting Mist to re-apply sunscreen. Its a mist so obviously its easier to use and the fact that it’s also a setting spray it won’t smear you makeup.
Also remember when you are doing activities like swimming, playing games or even just running, choose the water resistant formula like Shiseido, so that your sunscreen provides you protection even after in contact with water but remember to re-apply after 40-80 mins depending on its formula. Also, avoid the sunscreen with the ingredient Oxybenzone which is most likely to irritate the skin.
SHOP SOME OF MY FAVORITES:
I hope it helps you to find your perfect sunscreen. What’s your current favorites? Comment down below!