The human body in itself is nothing short of a miracle. Every part of it works perfectly to keep the body functional as a whole. For that reason, it is important to take care of it and protect it from external harms. Human skin is a crucial part of the human body. It shields internal organs from any environmental intrusions. The sun is one of such intrusions.
Prolonged sun exposure can damage your skin causing sunburn, heat strokes, premature aging and even skin cancer. This blog explores how you can protect your skin from sun exposure by choosing the best sunscreen for your skin type.
Why is Sunscreen Important?
Sunscreen is your best protection against the harmful UV rays of the sun. Wearing sunscreen daily provides sun protection, shielding your skin from sunburn, early aging and skin cancer. When you go out in the sun, the UV radiation is absorbed by your skin cells. Although healthy in small doses, prolonged absorption can damage the DNA in your cells permanently. This increases the chances of getting skin cancer and other skin related diseases (i.e. Melanoma).
Sunscreens For Different Skin Types
Human skin varies from person to person. This means that some people are more sensitive to heat rays as compared to others.
What’s My Skin Type?
Some common skin types are:
- Dry: Wrinkly skin with a dull complexion.
- Sensitive: Itchy skin with red patches and possible skin allergies.
- Oily: Shiny complexion with visible pores and blackheads.
- Combination: Oily in the T-zone, normal in others.
Just as there are different skin types, different sunscreens exist to cater to each one of them. Broadly, there are two types of sunscreens.
Mineral
These contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide and can easily be applied on top of other skin care products. Mineral sunscreens shield your skin from the harmful UVA and UVB rays. Also, such sunscreens need time to be absorbed properly, so apply them at least 15-20 minutes before exposure.
Chemical
These work by inactivating the UV rays once they penetrate the skin. The chemicals like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octocrylene start a chemical reaction in which the UV rays are converted into heat and released from the skin.
How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Your Skin?
Here are some choices you can make depending on your skin type.
Dry Skin
Go for a sunscreen that contains hydrating chemicals like glycerine, hyaluronic acid, and ceramide that would protect your skin from UV rays and moisturize it well.
Sensitive Skin
People with sensitive skin often experience itchy skin and rash. Going with a mineral based solution works since chemical sunscreens release heat which can cause more irritation.
Oily Skin
Chemical sunscreens are drier than mineral sunscreens so they work better on oily screens. Moreover, a water based moisturizer can also help.
Combination Skin
Such skin types can benefit from any sunscreen. A lightweight gel-based solution can tackle both an oily T-zone and nourish the dry areas as well.
Conclusion
The choice of buying the best sunscreen depends greatly on the type of skin you have. It is important to be aware about your skin type to take necessary precautions for its protection. Be it from the sun or other harmful sources.