Nowadays, Sunscreens have become an integral part of daily skincare routine. Still many of the people face a lot of queries and doubts about their sunscreen which remain unanswered. I compiled all these queries which were asked by my patients.
Ques: Why is it necessary to use a sunscreen?
Ans: Ultraviolet rays in sunlight are harmful to human skin and may lead to tanning, sunburn, early ageing and skin cancer if exposed regularly. Sunscreens filter these UV rays and thus protect our skin from its effects.
Ques: What ingredients to look for on-label while buying a sunscreen?
- Mineral (physical) sunscreens: Zinc oxide, Titanium dioxide, Iron oxide
- Broad spectrum sunscreens: Tinosorb S and M, Mexoryl SL and XL
- UVA filter sunscreen: Avobenzone, Uvinul A, Oxybenzone
- UVB filter sunscreen: Octinoxate, Octisalate, Ensulizole
Ques: How much quantity needs to be applied?
Ans: Ideally, we need to apply more than half a teaspoon amount for entire face and neck area. But in reality, the amount applied is approximately 1/3rd of this amount. In effect, if you apply a sunscreen with SPF 15, then you are actually applying an amount equal to only 3-5 SPF.
Ques: Can we immediately go out after applying sunscreen?
Ans: No. For most sunscreens to work properly, you need to apply it at least 20-30 minutes before sun exposure. However, mineral-based sunscreens can be applied just before sun exposure.
Ques: Once applied, how long does it stay? Can we reapply it without washing the face again?
Ans: Staying power of the sunscreen is called as substantivity. Not all sunscreens at a particular SPF will give the same protection. Some sunscreens get washed with rubbing or sweating. So opt for a sunscreen which has good staying power. Generally, you need to reapply it every 2-3 hours especially if you are in the direct sun or every 40-80 mins if swimming or perspiring profusely (depending on sunscreen used). Some newer generation of sunscreens now provides protection lasting up to 8 hrs. You can reapply the sunscreen directly without washing the face.
Ques: If I wear makeup and I am out the full day then what precautions to take?
Ans: Use a long-lasting sunscreen before applying makeup. Cover all exposed areas with broad-brimmed hats, protective clothing and umbrella. Nowadays tinted (skin coloured) sunscreens are available and allow hiding minor blemishes on the face.
Ques: Should we always use higher SPF?
Ans: Always opt for sunscreens with a minimum of 30 SPF. This will in actuality give you a protection of about 15 SPF. Also, do not rely only on SPF, look for PA rating which is protection index against UVA rays (the rays responsible for tanning).
Ques: I remain indoors most of the time and travel only by car. Do I need to apply sunscreen?
Ans: Yes. UVA rays get filtered even through windows/glass panes. Also while travelling you are exposed to scattered rays. Indoor lights like halogen quartz or fluorescent bulbs emit ultraviolet rays so it is worthwhile to use a sunscreen.
Ques: Can I use it on lips?
Ans: Regular sunscreens for body use are not formulated for lips. Use a lip balm with added sunscreen.
Ques: I tend to sweat a lot after using sunscreen. How to then find the best one for me?
Ans: Many sunscreens work by converting UV rays into heat which can cause sweating. If you find it uncomfortable, switch to mineral-based sunscreens.
Ques: I get tanned despite using sunscreen. Does it even work?
Ans: If you do not use sunscreen correctly i.e applying adequate amount, reapplying every 2 hrs, there is a chance that you will get tanned and blame the sunscreen. Take extra measures to protect yourself from direct sunlight. Prefer sunscreens of good companies and which have good substantivity.
Ques: Is sunscreen only for summers?
Ans: 70-80% UV rays are filtered through clouds. Even if it is raining heavily it is advisable to use one to maintain the health of the skin. Always use sunscreens throughout the year.
Ques: Is there any side effect of sunscreen?
Ans: Sunscreen can cause an allergic reaction or acneiform eruption or may sting eyes. In case you have any doubt then mineral sunscreens are safe to use, with minimal side effects. Talk to your dermatologist if you develop any side effect or have a sensitive skin type.
Ques: What are the limitations of sunscreen?
Ans: They do not provide protection against the entire spectrum of sunlight- namely infrared rays and visible light. Earlier it was thought that only ultraviolet rays cause skin damage. However, studies now show that even visible light and the heat (i.e infrared rays) cause photo-ageing and melasma. Newer generation– ‘IR sunscreens’ are latest entries in market offering protection against entire light spectrum.
Ques: Is it safe to use sunscreen for kids?
Ans: Yes, it is safe to use it on children more than 6 months of age. Use mineral-based sunscreen only. Safer option to protect them from sunlight is by using an umbrella, protective clothing etc.
Ques: Can we apply to our pets?
Ans: Human sunscreens are not made for the animal skin as animals tend to lick their bodies resulting in toxicity. Opt for a sunscreen specially formulated for pets if absolutely necessary.