Sun Protection: A Guide On Choosing Sunscreen Sun Protection: A Guide On Choosing Sunscreen

Sun Protection: A Guide On Choosing Sunscreen

If sunscreen is not a part of your AM skincare ritual yet, now is the time to make it! External aggressors like UV rays not only give you a sun tan but also make your skin susceptible to sun spots (a type of hyperpigmentation), photoaging (premature skin ageing), and in worst cases, skin cancer. All these skin concerns occur due to sun exposure. So, you need sunscreen to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun and other environmental aggressors that can cause damage in any and every season. But, the most pressing question is how to choose sunscreen considering the various types of sunscreens available in the market with different formulations, and ingredients. If you are a beginner and the task of choosing sunscreen seems overwhelming to you, we have got your back! From how to choose sunscreen to how to incorporate it into your skincare regimen, this sunscreen guide has it all! Stick to the end and you will have all your answers!

How to choose sunscreen?

Choosing sunscreen is easy if you have this sunscreen guide with you. Go through each of these pointers and bring home a suitable sun protection cream.

1. Go for a cream with broad-spectrum SPF

Choose your sunscreen wisely. A cream with broad-spectrum SPF means the product will protect your skin from both, UVA and UVB rays. This benefits your skin by preventing premature ageing, dark spots, sun tan, sunburn, and other signs of sun-induced damage. Opt for sun protection with SPF 30 or higher.

2. Keep your skin type in mind

Choose sunscreen according to your skin type, we can’t stress enough on this. It is critical to keep your skin type in mind. For instance, if you have dry skin, then you need a moisturising sunscreen that contains hydrating ingredients and works as a nourisher. If you have oily, acne-prone skin, look for a water-based sunscreen gel. Similarly, if you have sensitive skin, avoid products containing alcohol, parabens, silicones, fragrances, and harsh chemicals that may cause further irritation.

3. Physical or chemical sunscreen? - Check the ingredients list and choose wisely

How to choose sunscreen, you ask? Let us guide you! One of the most important things to keep in mind while choosing sun protection is the list of ingredients it contains. Generally, there are two types of sunscreen: physical and chemical.

Physical sunscreen (aka mineral sunscreen) is made of natural ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that sits on the top of the skin’s surface and acts as a physical barrier between your skin and the sun, and helps reflect its UV rays away from the skin. On the other hand, chemical sunscreens typically contain avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone that absorb UV rays, convert the sun’s energy to heat energy, and then release the energy from the body. Chemical sunscreens may cause skin irritation, hence those with sensitive skin may go for physical sunscreen to reduce the chances of skin irritation. No matter what sunscreen you choose, you must apply it religiously to protect your skin from sun tan and damage.

4. Look for a lightweight formula

Irrespective of the type of sunscreen you choose, look for a lightweight formula that doesn’t make you feel like you've lathered an extra layer of cream on your skin. We recommend choosing sun protection that works beyond sun protection, leaves no residue, and delivers you a seamless finish.

5. Should be water-resistant

To reap the maximum benefits of sunscreen, you must select a product that offers water resistance benefits. Water-resistant sunscreens continue to perform, i.e., protect your skin when you sweat or indulge in water sports. Majority of water-resistant sunscreen lasts for 40 - 80 minutes, meaning you need to reapply it after the said time.

Now that you know how to choose sunscreen, you can easily find the right formula and product for you. Let’s move on to the other query you probably have in your mind – how to include sunscreen in your daily skincare routine.

How to include sun protection in your skincare routine?

The benefits of using sunscreens are endless. That’s why, sunscreens top the list of skincare essentials after cleansers and moistures and certainly are non-negotiable. 

Step 1: Cleanser

Use mild yet gentle micellar cleansing water to cleanse your skin and remove dirt, dust, and impurities from the surface. If you wish to follow a double-cleansing method for your skin, follow it up with a vitamin C gel facewash to refresh, revive, and cleanse your skin thoroughly.

Step 2: Serum

If you are struggling with dark spots, dullness, and acne marks, apply a vitamin C serum to notice improved results in just a few days and brighten your skin from within.

Step 3: Moisturiser

Keep your skin moisturised and hydrated with the daily care moisturising cream.

Step 4: Sun protection

Close your AM skincare routine with a sunscreen. Apply generous amount of sunscreen on your face, and areas that gets sun exposure. Rub the product thoroughly into the skin and proceed with your makeup ritual.

Pro tip: If you wish to keep your AM skincare ritual minimal, you can choose SPF moisturiser that delivers both moisturising and sun protection benefits.

We hope, this sunscreen guide answers your queries like ‘how to choose sunscreen’, ‘how to layer sunscreen’, etc. So, make sunscreen your skin’s best friend and apply it every day no matter if you’re stepping outdoors or chilling indoors. Keep the above-mentioned things about sun protection in mind and browse through a wide range of Garnier skincare products and skincare tips to flaunt the healthy, protected skin of your dreams with ease.