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6 April 2024 Vol 4 No 39

Sunscreens – Your doubts clarified and

questions answered

Sunscreen
Sunscreen Sunscreen

Sunscreen Sunscreen

Sunscreen

Sunscreen

(Click to Read) Buying Guide for Sunscreens

What you should know about Sunscreens
How to use a Sunscreen Effectively
Expert Speak - Video on “Edible Oils - Myths and Facts”
Buying Guide for Sunscreens

Exposure to strong sunlight makes your skin feel irritated, red and patchy and it can lead to skin ageing and
dryness. To prevent your skin from undue sun damage it is essential to use a quality sunscreen to ensure
good coverage from ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun. Given below is an easy buying guide listing some
important things to consider before buying a sunscreen.
Consider your skin type
Choose gel, cream or water-based sunscreen that suits your skin type. For dry skin, choose a moisturising sunscreen
with suitable oil-based content like silicones, glycerine etc. Avoid alcohol-based products. For oily skin, use a
gel-based or water-based sunscreen. For sensitive skin, choose mineral sunscreens and fragrance-free products.
SPF and Broad-Spectrum Coverage
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures a sunscreen’s ability to protect skin from UVB rays. A sunscreen
with minimum SPF 15 is good for daily use. If you are spending extended time outdoors, especially on hot
afternoons, use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
However, SPF is an indicator of UVB coverage only, not UVA. So, look for a ‘broad-spectrum’ sunscreen
with a high PA+ rating that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Always look for a broad-spectrum
sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for maximum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Regular
reapplication as well as proper application are also crucial for adequate protection.
Chemical vs. Mineral sunscreens
Look for sunscreen that physically blocks UV rays. Mineral Sunscreens stay on
the skin surface and physically block the UV rays. They contain zinc oxide or
titanium dioxide and are gentle on the skin. Chemical sunscreens get absorbed
into your skin and dissipate UV rays.
Water-resistant
If you are into swimming or if you sweat or do any activity that causes moisture
on the skin, it can reduce the sunscreen's effectiveness. Select a water-resistant
sunscreen to ensure protection during such outdoor activities.
Check for Expiry
Always check the packaging for expiry date. If you use an outdated product, it
will not give you adequate protection. Sunscreens usually remain effective at
original strength for up to three years.
Check Customer Reviews
User reviews, ratings and recommendations tell you about consumers’
experience regarding factors such as effectiveness, skin compatibility, ease of
application, texture and scent to help you choose an appropriate product.

Concerns about Vitamin D deficiency

If you are worried that excessive use of sunscreen would lead to reduced vitamin D production in your
body, you can take an early morning walk without sunscreen before the sunrays get too strong. Vitamin
D strengthens your immune system and enhances bone strength.

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What you should know about Sunscreens

Here we answer some common questions that you may have about
sunscreens. We also clarify some myths regarding sunscreens.
Frequently Asked Questions
• What do sunscreen do: Sunscreens protect the skin from harmful
UV rays by absorbing or reflecting them. UV rays can cause skin
damage and ageing and increase the risk of skin cancer. Regular and
proper use of sunscreen can help prevent skin damage and preserve
the skin’s health.
• How long does sunscreen last after applying: Sunscreen should be
reapplied every 2 hours or after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
• Can sunscreen remove tan: No, sunscreen cannot remove a tan. It
only helps prevent further skin damage and tanning from sun exposure.
• Can sunscreens remove dark spots: Not in all cases. Sunscreens are not made to remove dark spots.
But regular application can prevent new ones from forming. Some sunscreens can help to lighten dark
spots but may not be able to completely remove them.
Some Myths Debunked
Myth: I am mostly at home, so I don’t need sunscreen.
Fact: Not true. There is risk of UV light exposure even indoors, like near an open window. To protect
yourself, you can apply sunscreen on areas not covered by your clothing.
Myth: Sun damage is not possible on cloudy or cool days.
Fact: Sun damage is caused by sun’s UV radiation which can penetrate even clouds. A cool or cloudy day
can have similar UV levels as a warm and sunny day.
Myth: I do not need a sunscreen for my vacations to snow clad mountains.
Fact: The sun is harsher at higher altitudes. Also, snow reflects almost 75% radiation falling on its surface,
thereby increasing the UV exposure.
Myth: Higher SPF means higher protection.
Fact: This is not entirely true. An SPF 30 does not offer twice the protection or last for twice as long as SPF
15. SPF 15 blocks about 93% of the UV rays while SPF 30 blocks about 97% and SPF 50
blocks about 98%.
Beware of Misleading Claims
• Chemical free - All sunscreens contain chemicals. They cannot be completely chemical
free. Study the ingredient list to know what it contains.
• Safe for all skin types - All individuals react differently. Always do a patch test to
check if your skin is allergic to a sunscreen by applying a little product on your skin at
the back of your ear lobe.
• Blocks UV rays completely - No sunscreen offers complete UV protection.
• All day protection - One application does not give all-day protection. Reapplication is
necessary.
• 100% protection - No sunscreen can fully block UV rays.
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How to use a Sunscreen Effectively

Remember that no sunscreen can completely protect

you from harmful rays of the sun. Following the tips
below will help you get the best protection from
your sunscreen. It is important to always reapply
sunscreen throughout the day, seek shade and
wear protective clothing.
• Always test a new sunscreen on a small patch of
skin to see if you have an allergy or reaction to it.
• Sunscreen should be the first thing you apply on
to your skin, which will act as a block for the UV
rays. Only after that you should apply any other
cream or makeup.
• Apply a generous layer of sunscreen. Otherwise,
it will only shield you from a very small
percentage of the sun’s rays.
• For best effectiveness, apply sunscreen about 15-
30 minutes before leaving the house.
• Make sure to apply sunscreen on all areas
exposed to the sun. In addition to the face and arms etc., apply sunscreen to the back of your ears and
neck, shoulders and the backside of your knees and legs.
• Reapply the sunscreen every 2-3 hours for maximum protection. You may consider using a spray or
powder sunscreen which is easier to apply on the go.
• A water-resistant sunscreen is effective for about 40-80 minutes after being in water, so make sure to
re-apply it once you are out.
• Wear a hat and a pair of sunglasses or carry a big umbrella to protect yourself from the sun, despite
applying a sunscreen.
• It is always better to stay indoors and avoid the sun in the afternoon.
• If you live in coastal areas or are going on a beach vacation, you should choose a sunscreen containing
SPF 30 to 50.

Links to our recent issues Expert Speak

1. Beware of Cybercrimes - Keep yourself safe In this issue,
2. Grahak Sathi Educates and Empowers Consumers Dr. Prabodh Halde, Head
3. Artificial Intelligence and Consumer Safety - Regulatory, Marico Ltd.
4. Know your Liability in case of Financial Fraud talks about Edible Oils -
Myths and Facts
5. Grahak Sathi Yuva (March 2024) Dr. Prabodh Halde

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6 April 2024