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When it comes to sunscreen, there is only one school of thought: apply it every day, come rain or shine; it’s non-negotiable. So, when should you be applying sunscreen as part of your skincare routine? The simple, straightforward answer is that you should be applying sunscreen every single day, regardless of whether you're indoors, outdoors, or mid-flight. That’s because ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun penetrate through clouds and glass, which means you’re exposed to them even when you’re indoors.
So, how do you incorporate sunscreen into your daily skincare routine? The best time to apply sunscreen is after you’ve applied moisturiser and before you slather on makeup. If you’re using mineral sunscreen, which contains ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, you’ll want to give it a few minutes to sink into your skin before applying makeup. Chemical sunscreen, on the other hand, can be applied right before makeup. However, irrespective of the type you opt for, sunscreen should be reapplied every four hours for it to work optimally.
What Is SPF & Why Is It Important?
SPF is short for Sun Protection Factor and determines the level of UVB coverage a formula offers. The higher the SPF, the better the protection. Ideally, one must opt for a sunscreen delivering SPF 30 or more for optimal sun protection. While SPF 15 sunscreen can filter out 93% of UVB radiation, SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB radiation, SPF 50 blocks nearly 98% of UVB radiation, and SPF 100 can filter up to 99% of UVB radiation.
Your SPF protection level should depend on several factors, including whether you’re going to be indoors or plan to step out. If you’re indoors, you can opt for a sunscreen boasting SPF 15 or 20, while if you’re going to be under direct sunlight, pick a formula with SPF 30 or higher. More importantly, remember to reapply sunscreen every couple of hours using the two-finger rule.
Why is SPF paramount, you ask? Well, higher SPF levels provide broad-spectrum protection and can last longer on the skin. You should also look for a variant that is water-resistant, sweat-proof and doesn’t leave a white cast on the skin. A high SPF level of 50 or more can effectively block harmful ultraviolet rays and reduce the risk of sunburns.
Split-face studies have also corroborated that sunscreens with an SPF of 100 are superior to those with an SPF of 50 to prevent sunburns. Essentially, the lower the SPF, the more reapplication will be required. Whereas, with a high SPF sunscreen, you may use a minimal amount and achieve the same level of sun protection.
Another study suggests that the correct administration of sunscreen is key to its effectiveness. “A liberal, uniform film of sunscreen should be applied, and the application should be 15 minutes before sun exposure. The adequate amount to apply is 2 mg, equivalent to 30 mL/ body application. Sunscreen must also be reapplied every 2 hours, especially after sweating or swimming,” the research spells out. Now that you know what SPF is, and why it’s important, let’s explore its benefits and answer your burning sunscreen questions.
When To Apply Sunscreen In Your Makeup Routine?
You must wear sunscreen beneath your foundation to create a barrier between the skin and the makeup you’ve put on. To get a flawless base, apply sunscreen at least two minutes before applying your foundation. Applying makeup soon after could dilute your sunscreen or interact with it, resulting in ineffective sun protection. Research reveals that many foundations now include UV filters to provide photoprotection.
The Benefits Of Using Sunscreen
We’ve said it before and we’re saying it again…sunscreen is an absolute must. The fourth step in your CSMS routine, apart from offering optimal protection against sun damage, it lends the following benefits to your skin:
- Research has shown that ultraviolet radiation exposure has addictive properties, causing some people to engage in excessive tanning. By effectively blocking UVA and UVB rays, sunscreen reduces the probability of tanning and sunburn.
- Sunscreen application is also known to lower the risk of developing more serious concerns such as skin cancer. As per a study, UV-induced pathology, including skin cancer, can be avoided by minimising UV exposure. Another study conducted by The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center provides genetic evidence drawing a correlation between UV exposure and skin cancer.
- Did you know that prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause dark patches and spots on the skin, called melasma? The consistent use of sunscreen can also reduce the possibility of developing hyperpigmentation and prevent it from worsening.
- Most of you may know that sun damage is the chief cause of premature ageing, also known as photoaging. Harmful UV rays penetrate the skin to attack collagen and elastic reserves, making your epidermis appear loose and limp. To prevent fine lines, wrinkles, and other telltale signs of ageing, religiously apply sunscreen daily.
- UV exposure may lead to another pesky skin woe – a blotchy appearance. Sunlight can cause the small blood vessels in your face to become enlarged. As a result, red and purple patches may become more apparent on the skin. The regular use of sunscreen can keep this common beauty concern at bay.
- If you’re plagued by rosacea, cutaneous lupus, or any other inflammatory skin disorder, it may get exacerbated due to prolonged sun exposure. Certain medicines, including doxycycline and hydrochlorothiazide, can also increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Also, avoid applying retinol during the day.
Sunscreen Tips For Healthy Skin
When it comes to protecting your skin from the sun, there are a few things you must consider. Understand your skin’s needs: if you have dry skin, use an SPF that is hydrating as well as moisturising, whereas if you have oily to combination skin, use an SPF with a matte finish so that your T-zone remains grease-free. Sunscreen, as we all know, is not just for skin protection but also overall skin health, targeting pigmentation, sunburn etc. If you wear sunscreen daily, you lower your risk of developing blemishes caused by pigmentation and inflammation.
The Two-Finger Rule Of Applying Sunscreen
How much sunscreen is too much sunscreen? Proper usage is a huge part of measuring whether sun protection is effective and serving its purpose. The two-finger technique is a simple way to determine exactly how much sunscreen should be applied to the face. To perform this method, squeeze up to two fingers' worth of product in two separate lines on your index and middle fingers. Ensure you reapply sunscreen every couple of hours, especially if you’re spending ample time outdoors. Ideally, you should reapply sunscreen if you’re indoors, too. Since the potency of sunscreen tends to dilute as it interacts with sweat, body oils and fluids, adequate reapplication is imperative.
Dry Skin
Derma Co 1% Hyaluronic Long Lasting Sunscreen: Aren’t we all done with sunscreens that leave a white cast? Derma Co’s 1% Hyaluronic Long Lasting Sunscreen is super lightweight, sweat-resistant and water-resistant, and lets your skin breathe while protecting against UVA and UVB rays.
Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen: This sunscreen is formulated with the ultra-moisturising benefits of hyaluronic acid. The Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen is extremely hydrating and feels feather-light on the skin. The best part about this sunscreen is that it’s oil-free and does not clog your pores, all while providing blue light protection.
Oily Skin
Re’equil Ultra Matte Dry Touch Sunscreen: This water-resistant, silicone-based sunscreen is formulated with SPF 50 PA++++ to protect and repair the skin. It contains botanical extracts like Physalis Angulata, an Indian gooseberry renowned for its calming properties as well as antioxidants.
Lakme 9 To 5 Sun Expert Super Matte Sunscreen Lotion: The Lakme 9 To 5 Sun Expert Super Matte Sunscreen Lotion is a high-performance sunscreen that blocks up to 97% harmful UVB rays. An ultra-matte lotion sunscreen that is lightweight, non-sticky, non-greasy, and sweatproof. The formulation blends into the skin like a dream while providing ample hydration.
Sensitive Skin
Minimalist SPF 50 Sunscreen: The perfect example of moisturiser-meets-sunscreen, this broad spectrum SPF 50 PA+++ formula boasts a lightweight texture that spreads easily, leaving behind a natural, moisturised, non-shiny finish. Plus, it’s loaded with vitamins A, B, E, and F, all of which help repair your skin and minimise the damage caused by UV exposure.
SunScoop Hydrating Fluid Sunscreen: This one-of-a-kind sunscreen spray is super lightweight and is what your skin deserves if you need ultimate sun protection. Suitable for all skin types, this formulation is enriched with chamomile, rosemary, aloe vera, and oat milk extracts for intense skin hydration and nourishment.
Normal To Combination Skin
La Shield Sunscreen Gel SPF 40: Meet this no-nonsense formula that is gentle, soothing, and refreshing on the skin. The buttery formulation glides onto the skin smoothly, leaving behind a matte, dry finish. This SPF makes for a great base under makeup, too!
Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid For Face: This non-acnegenic, photoallergy-tested, all-mineral formula is suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. The novel SPF 50 blends effortlessly into the skin, prompting a lightweight feeling and eliminating any chalky residue.
Key Takeaway
It’s common knowledge that SPF is necessary for skin protection, but we’ve all been guilty of not using an adequate amount, forgetting to reapply, or skipping sunscreen altogether. However, constant reminders about the benefits of sunscreen are enough to encourage almost anyone to slather on SPF daily. So, be mindful: ‘An SPF a day keeps the wrinkles away!’.
FAQs On Sunscreen
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When to apply sunscreen in my skincare routine?
Sunscreen constitutes the fourth step in your CSMS routine, after adequately moisturising the skin. Take two fingers' worth of the product and apply it directly to the skin, covering all exposed areas for optimal sun protection. Ensure that you reapply sunscreen every couple of hours.
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Which are the best mineral sunscreens?
We recommend the following mineral sunscreens for optimal sun protection:
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What level of sunscreen should I use?
Ideally, you should use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, especially if you’re planning to step out. However, if you’re indoors, you could do with a sunscreen boasting SPF 15 or 20. Remember, the higher the SPF, the better the protection.
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Can sunscreen remove tan?
While sunscreen is known to curb dark spots and patchy skin, it cannot remove an existing tan. That said, it can surely prevent further tanning and sunburns. Ensure you apply generous amounts of sunscreen as you step out.
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Can regularly wearing sunscreen prevent premature ageing?
Photoaging – when the sun dangerously ages the skin – is a well-known contributor to fine lines and wrinkles. The consistent use of sunscreen can stall telltale signs of ageing and prevent sun damage.
