Sun protection cream is an essential skincare product all year round, especially at this time of the year, it is the primary skincare product on our minds. Am I using the right SPF? Should I also apply it when I’m not stepping in the blazing sun? Do I need to reapply? All these questions keep ringing in our heads the moment we start our skincare routine. Through this article, we will debunk some popular sunscreen myths so that you treat your skin right.
Myth #1 You need not wear sunscreen on a rainy or cloudy day
Clouds filter sunlight, which is excellent news. The bad news is that up to 80% of damaging UV radiation can still get through with ease. UV rays can penetrate clouds and even pass through your house’s glass windows and damage your skin. No matter whether it is sunny or cloudy, whether you are inside or outside, you must apply your sunscreen lotion.
Myth #2: The same SPF product can be used for short and prolonged sun exposure
SPF 15 filters roughly 93% of UV light and is sufficient when you are outside for a few minutes. It is recommended to use a sunscreen lotion with SPF 50 or SPF 30 for prolonged exposure, as it protects you from 97% to 98% of harmful rays. For example, SPF 15 is sufficient for going to the movies, but you must switch to SPF 50 for a day at the beach. Think of your exposure level, and then pick the sunscreen that suits your day the best.
Myth #3 Any product with SPF could be used instead of sunscreen lotion
Many people skip sunscreen if they apply makeup or other skincare products with SPF. Contrary to popular perception, SPF or Sun Protection Factor is not the sole element protecting you from the sun. If the product you apply does not provide broad-spectrum protection, it may not be formulated to protect you from UVA and UVB radiation. Thus, it is essential to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen like Lotus Herbals Safe Sun UV Screen MatteGEL Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++ that provides complete protection. In addition, sunscreens also contain physical and chemical blockers that deflect light, something your day cream or makeup product is unlikely to contain.
Myth #4 Sunscreen should be used last in the beauty regimen to be truly effective
It takes roughly 20 minutes for an average sunscreen to penetrate the top layers of skin. Ideally, you should apply sunscreen liberally to your base makeup. Your daily skincare regimen should look like this:
- Face wash
- Toner
- Serum
- Day cream
- Sunscreen
After this, you can apply your makeup. Setting makeup with an SPF-infused foundation would provide additional protection.
Myth #5 Less is more
Sunscreen does not abide by the rule “less is more.” Follow the two-finger method for proper application of sunscreen. Squeeze the sun protection cream in two lines on your index and middle fingers and dot it all over your face. Do not miss areas like your eyelids and ears and other exposed areas, such as the back of your palms, arms, etc.
In conclusion
Even though you need sunscreen all year round, the intense sun rays and long hot days make it necessary to use sunblock in the summer without fail. Furthermore, covering yourself is a plus when protecting your skin from harmful sun rays. We recommend applying sunscreen lotion with SPF 50 at least twenty minutes before heading outside. Remember to reapply as needed.
