May 7,Kathmandu.The strong sun rays in summer damage our skin in many ways. Tanning, sunburn, freckles and premature wrinkles start appearing as soon as we go out in the sun. The biggest reason for this is the harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun, which damage the skin deeply. In such a situation, the use of sunscreen is most important. It acts as a protection shield for the skin.
However, it can be a bit difficult to choose the right sunscreen for yourself from the many options available in the market. Actually, everyone's skin type is different. Some people have dry skin while others have oily skin. In such a situation, it is important that you choose a sunscreen with the right SPF and the right formula according to your skin.
What is sunscreen?
It is a kind of cream, lotion or spray. It contains ingredients that prevent UV rays from reaching the skin or reduce their effect.
What things should be kept in mind while buying sunscreen?
Dr. says that before buying a sunscreen, definitely check its Sun Protection Factor (SPF). The higher the SPF, the more protected the skin will be from UV rays. Apart from this, also keep in mind what your skin type is. It is important to choose a sunscreen accordingly. It is also important to look at the ingredients of the sunscreen.
Which sunscreen is right for which skin type?
Every skin type has different needs. The same sunscreen is not effective for every skin. Therefore, choose a sunscreen only after identifying your skin type.
What is SPF?
SPF i.e. Sun Protection Factor, tells how long sunscreen can protect your skin from UV rays. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), one should always use sunscreen of SPF 30 or more.
Which SPF should we choose? Is it necessary to choose only high SPF?
Dr. says that it is not necessary to take only high SPF. You should choose it according to your need and skin type. Know in the graphic below which SPF is better in which situation.
SPF 15-30:
If you do everyday work like going to office, going to market or spend some time in mild sunlight then this SPF is sufficient. It is light and does not put any burden on the skin.
SPF 30-50:
If you go to the park with children, do gardening or work in the sun for some time, then this SPF gives better protection to the skin.
SPF 50+:
This is important for those who have to stay in the sun for a long time, such as sports persons, travelers or construction workers. SPF 50+ is also necessary for those with fair or sensitive skin because their skin can get sunburned quickly.
What is the correct way to apply sunscreen?
To apply sunscreen, first clean your skin properly and if the skin is dry then apply moisturizer first. Let it absorb into the skin for some time. After this use sunscreen.
Is it necessary to apply sunscreen even when staying indoors?
]Many people believe that sunscreen is only for going out in the sun, but this is not completely true. Actually, UV rays can also enter through the glass of the windows. These rays reach deep into the skin and damage it slowly. Not only this, the blue light emitted from mobile and laptop can also affect the skin. This light makes the skin tone uneven and the glow of the skin can fade over time. Therefore, to keep the skin healthy, young and protected, it is important that you apply sunscreen every day after 2-3 hours.
What things should be kept in mind while applying sunscreen?
Ingredients like Avobenzone present in sunscreen protect against UV rays, but if it accidentally goes into the eyes, it can cause problems like burning, stinging, watery eyes or redness. This condition can make you uncomfortable for some time. Therefore, keep these things in mind while applying sunscreen. Such as-