Knowing just the right sunscreen for your skin type

Posted on Aug 6th, 2011 | Comments (0)
Beauty Tips

People today have wrong perceptions regarding the protective power of sunscreen and this confidence can prove to be dangerous if the label is not understood at the right time. People tend to burn their skins due to their careless attitude by forgetting to reapply the sunscreen as recommended for instance right after swimming on their exposed parts. Finding just the correct sunscreen is important because they contain ingredients which can cause allergies.
Knowing the meaning of fancy words can ease the selection of sunscreen for many consumers.

Know key points to use sunscreen

The first step is to jot down all the key concerns which one might have regarding the usage of sunscreen. It may include things such as potential allergens which can cause reactions of skin thus resulting in irritations or redness; duration of time till when the sunscreen will remain effective; and whether the same label is suitable for all the age groups or not. Babies are an exception; therefore, special notice should be taken if mothers are applying sunscreen to their bodies.

Read the label of the sunscreen

The next step should be to read the label of the sunscreen lying in your bathroom cabinet and analyze if you are already familiar with any ingredient mentioned on it. Sun Protection Factor (SPF) tells how long it can protect you from the UVB rays. Thus a higher level protects for longer. However, a higher SPF can cause sunburns and premature skin aging too. Zinc oxide and titanium are suitable for sensitive skins as they reflect UV light. If the label states that it protects from UVA and UVB rays, then this combination has chemical blocks. There are questions about its safety because high usage can penetrate in skin augmenting photo carcinogenic properties.

Broad spectrum sunscreens

Broad spectrum is a term referring to adequate quantity of avobenzene, titanium oxide or zinc oxide for protection against UVA. Few broad spectrums are better off than the others as some sunscreens are unable to block UVAs appropriately. Many sunscreens carry the title PABA which is included less nowadays as it has been causing rash reactions to many people. Also skin cancer is a typical hazard caused by applying it.

Water resistant sunscreens

Water resistant sunscreens are good in protecting skins while swimming or doing beach activities. Extracts and scents make sunscreens more edible so it should not be in children’s reach. Child screen is specially made considering their skin type. Lastly, expiry date should be paid greatest attention to.

Make an informed choice

Intelligent consumers should make an informed choice. Rather safe tips while buying sunscreen include the avoidance of scented sunscreen. Other alternatives include wearing of broad rim hats, including long-sleeves in clothing and staying indoors at the peak hours of sunshine. Therefore, we should practise secure sun protection.