Smile With Your Sunscreen

"Yesterday's sunscreen prevented burns; today's prevent wrinkles" 

                                    (Patti Neighmond, 2007)

 

It's time to get yourself a sunscreen and this is when you have to be a smart sunscreen consumer. So before you march into a drugstore and just grab any sunscreen which seems appealing, there are a few things you need to know to get the most protection from your sunscreen. 

Here is how to choose your sunscreen.

#1 Understand SPF

SPF means 'Sun Protection Factor' and it is the measure of UVB (the ray which gives sunburn) Protection. In theory, the higher the SPF, the greater protection it gives. 

FALSE! SPF does not tell how much time you can spend in the Sun. For instance, using a sunscreen with SPF30 does not mean you can stay in the Sun for 2X longer than a sunscreen with SPF15. In fact, an SPF15 filters out about 93% of UVB while SPF30 filters out about 95% of it. The sunscreen effects will decrease over time. Thus the difference between the two may be even less after a few hours. However, most people apply sunscreen too sparingly. So instead of reaching the actual protection of a sunscreen, we lowered the SPF value by applying less than we should. Therefore, we should use a higher SPF to be on the safe side.

#2 Choose the Best!

Go for maximum protection and select a broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF30 with PA+++ (measure of UVA protection in Asia). In the US and UK, UVA protection is indicated using star rating system. 1star being the least protection;5 stars products provide the best protection. Remember to choose one with the best UVA protection to prevent skin aging and skin cancer. 

SPF is the measure of protection against UVB. PA is the measure of UVA protection.

#3 Identify sunscreen types & read ingredients label

Chemical Screens - absorbs UV before they cause skin damage. Example of chemical screens are broad spectrum sunscreens which provide protection against UVA & UVB. Key UVA-shielding ingredients include avobenzone (Parsol 1797), oxybenzone or FDA approved ecamsule (Mexoryl SX).

Physical Screens - forms an opaque film that reflects or scatters UV light before it penetrates the skin. Key ingredients include titanium dioxide and iron oxide, which protect against UVA & UVB rays. Physical screens are less irritating which may be better for sensitive skin.

#5 Avoid added ingredients that may irritate your skin. 

Fragrances and dyes in sunscreens may cause reaction to some people. If you have a sensitive skin, choose a product without fragrance/parfum & dyes and designed specifically for your skin type. 

Must Dos when applying sunscreen

1. Apply sunscreen liberally on the skin 20 mins before being exposed to the sun.

2. At least 2 teaspoons of sunscreen is required for the face and neck to get the protection indicated on a sunscreen. A half cup for the whole body.

3. Reapply every 4 hours if outdoors. Apply immediately after swimming, washing, or sports.

Personal Sunscreen Favourite

NEUTROGENA ULTRA SHEER Complete UV Waterlight Lotion

Neutrogena has successfully changed the thought of all sunscreens being thick, sticky and greasy. The high protection of this sunscreen definitely gives a good first impression. This sunscreen is formulated with Helioplex which delivers high, broad-spectrum and photostable protection after 5 hours of sun exposure (simulated solar radiation). With Helioplex technology, Avobenzene (resposible for UVA protection) is stabilized to provide longer lasting protection against aging UVA rays. Its consistency is so light, it could be applied easily and smoothly without dragging your skin. My first thought was - 'I can't believe it's a sunscreen'. Its claim of being Ultra Sheer is agreeable. The sunscreen is a white, runny liquid which does not leave a white cast when applied on the skin. Instead it gives a healthy dewy look. Forget about your old greasy sunscreen because this one leaves no greasy feel and shine that shouts "My Skin is OILY!". At the same time, it does not dry out the skin. Also, it works well as a makeup base, making makeup application much easier! 

Other best rated sunscreens by consumers

LA ROCHE-POSAY ANTHELIOS Sunscreens

* Contains key UVA-shielding ingredient Mexoryl SX and XL filters.

* Contains La Roche-Posay Thermal Spa Water which is rich in anti-oxidant Selenium. It has soothing, softening and anti-irritating properties.

* A skin care brand recommended by dermatologists worldwide.

Wear the right sunscreen the right way. When you know you are protected, you smile.