The Ultimate Guide to Sunscreen and Skin Health: Benefits, Application, and Myths

Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and turn them into heat, which is then released from your skin. They usually feel light and absorb quickly. Some people with sensitive skin might get irritated by these.

Physical (mineral) sunscreens use ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These sit on top of your skin and reflect UV rays. They work immediately and are less likely to cause irritation, making them suitable for sensitive skin.

Always pick a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against both UVA and UVB rays.

What Does SPF Mean?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, the ones that cause sunburn. SPF 15 blocks about 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks about 97%, and SPF 50 blocks about 98%. No sunscreen blocks 100% of rays.

Higher SPF is helpful if you have fair skin, a history of skin cancer, or spend a lot of time outdoors. But you still need to reapply it often.

• Use enough sunscreen: about one ounce (a shot glass) for your whole body, and a teaspoon (the size of a nickel) for your face.
• Most people use too little, which means they aren’t fully protected.
• Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming, sweating, or drying off with a towel. Water-resistant sunscreens last 40 to 80 minutes in water, but you still need to reapply after swimming.
• Use sunscreen every day, even if you’re indoors or it’s cloudy. UV rays can pass through windows and reflect off surfaces such as water, sand, and concrete.

Sunscreen and Makeup

You can apply sunscreen before applying makeup. Some makeup products have SPF, but you usually don’t use enough of them to get full protection. You can also use powder or spray sunscreens to reapply over makeup during the day.

Common Myths About Sunscreen

• You don’t need sunscreen on cloudy days: False. Up to 80% of UV rays can get through clouds.
• People with dark skin don’t need sunscreen: False. Darker skin has more natural protection, but can still get sunburned and develop skin cancer.
• Sunscreen causes vitamin D deficiency: False. Most people still get enough vitamin D, even when using sunscreen. You can also get vitamin D from food or supplements.

• Oily skin: Look for oil-free or mattifying sunscreens that won’t clog pores.
• Dry skin: Choose sunscreens with moisturisers like hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
• Sensitive skin: Use mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Pick fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products.
• Dark skin: Some mineral sunscreens leave a white cast. Tinted or transparent mineral sunscreens are more effective for darker skin tones.

Sunscreen in Your Skincare Routine

• Apply sunscreen as the last step in your morning routine, after moisturiser and before makeup.
• Avoid mixing sunscreen with other products, as this can reduce its effectiveness.
• For the best protection, also wear a hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing, and try to stay in the shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

• If you have skin problems that don’t go away, like sunburn that won’t heal or reactions to sunscreen, see a dermatologist. Also, if you notice new moles, sunspots, or changes in your skin, get them checked for skin cancer.
• People who have had bad sunburns, use tanning beds, or have a family history of skin cancer should have regular skin checks with a dermatologist.