Sunscreen 101: Everything You Need To Know About Sunscreen

Ever wondered how sunscreens protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays? Or how to use them in your routine? Today, we're discussing an important step of your skincare routine that’s frequently misunderstood: sunscreen. 

Whether you're lounging by the pool, hiking through the mountains, or simply stepping out for a quick errand, wearing sunscreen is the best way to protect your skin from the sun.

So, if you're curious about these SPF lotions and ready to incorporate them into your daily routine, this guide has all the answers you need.

How Do Sunscreens Work?

The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation, a type of electromagnetic energy that travels through sun rays. These rays are categorised into three main types based on their wavelengths: UVA, UVB and UVC.

UVA rays make up about 95% of the UV radiation that reaches the Earth's surface. These rays can penetrate deep into your skin causing sun tans, premature wrinkles, fine lines and even some skin melanomas. On the other hand, UVB rays constitute the remaining 5% (UVC rays get absorbed by the ozone layer) and are primarily responsible for causing sunburns.

This is where sunscreens step in. They contain special active ingredients (known as UV filters) that either reflect or absorb UV radiation to prevent photodamage. In simpler terms, sunscreens form a protective barrier on your skin to shield it from harmful UVA and UVB rays. 

Who Needs Sunscreen?

The short answer is everyone, including kids. Sunscreen has become an essential skincare step for everyone regardless of age, gender, or skin colour. While people with darker skin tones are less likely to experience sunburn due to their melanin-rich skin, the UV rays can still damage the DNA cells in their skin and lead to sagging, dark spots, and wrinkles.

Moreover, certain skin conditions, medications, and even some skincare products can increase your skin's sensitivity to sun rays, making sunscreen a non-negotiable step in your morning skincare routine. So whether it's sunny or cloudy, raining or snowing, winter or spring, dermatologists recommend using sunscreen every day to protect your skin health in the long run.

Types Of Sunscreen

There are two main types of sunscreens you can find on the market- mineral and chemical sunscreens. The key difference in these sunscreens is their mechanism of UV protection.

• Chemicals Sunscreen contains carbon-based compounds that absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin. The UV filters used in chemical sunscreens include avobenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, and oxybenzone. 
• Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, contain zinc oxide and titanium oxide which form a protective barrier that absorbs and reflects the UV rays away from your skin much like your clothing. Hence, these sunscreens are also known as physical sunscreens. 

How To Pick The Right Sunscreen For You

Every sunscreen has an SPF rating on its label which indicates the amount of protection it offers against UVB rays. Your sunscreen should have at least SPF 30 to get sufficient protection against daily sun exposure.

But sunscreens are not just about preventing sunburns or tanning. They can play an important role in protecting your skin from various signs of ageing. So you need a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

The UVA protection is measured on the PA rating scale from 1-5 with a higher number of "+" indicating a higher level of UVA protection provided by the sunscreen.

Whether you opt for chemical or mineral sunscreen is a personal choice. But if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, experts recommend using a mineral sunscreen formula as it is the least likely to cause skin irritation and a safe choice for all skin types. Mineral sunscreens are also pregnancy-safe and can be used by kids of all ages.

How To Use Sunscreen In Your Skincare Routine:

Sunscreens should be applied to all exposed areas of skin as the last step of your morning skincare routine. 

• After cleansing, toning, and moisturising, take a sufficient amount of sunscreen (about 1/4th teaspoon for the face) and apply it evenly over areas not covered by clothing, including your ears and neck.
• Gently massage the sunscreen into the skin using circular motions until it's fully absorbed. 
• To maintain protection throughout the day, reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours, or more frequently if you're swimming or sweating heavily. 
• For further sun protection, wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, and stay in the shade to minimise exposure to ultraviolet rays.

Try Juicy Chemistry’s Mineral Sunscreen Today

Our Moisturising Mineral Sunscreen is India’s first Ecocert-certified organic sunscreen with SPF 40 PA++++ broad spectrum protection. After two years of rigorous research, we created this family-friendly, all-mineral sunscreen that will protect your skin all year round.

The key ingredient in our mineral sunscreen is Ecocert-approved Titanium Dioxide dispersion that provides sun protection against both UVA and UVB rays. To further protect your skin from sun damage, it also contains a blend of phytonutrients that soothe irritated skin and help fight signs of ageing.

Enriched with squalane, argan and aloe vera juice, this sheer, nourishing formula will keep your skin hydrated and moisturised throughout the day without feeling heavy or leaving any white cast. It is suitable for all skin types, pregnancy-safe, and kid-friendly(2+ years).

It's the perfect sunscreen to protect your whole family from the sun in all seasons. Because when it comes to your skin, you deserve the best. Shop our Moisturising Mineral Sunscreen here.

Your skin is your body's largest organ and deserves the highest level of care and protection. Sunscreen isn't just a cosmetic product—it’s a necessity to preserve your skin for years to come. So prioritise sun protection by applying sunscreen daily and your skin will thank you for it!

FAQs

Are mineral sunscreens better than chemical sunscreens?

Mineral sunscreens are more environment-friendly, kid-safe and less likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, making them a better choice for everyone, especially for people with sensitised or acne-prone skin.

Can I use sunscreen on sensitive skin?

Yes, dermatologists recommend mineral sunscreens made with gentle ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for people with sensitive skin types. Ours is a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula made specifically with sensitive skin in mind to minimise the risk of skin irritation.

Will using sunscreen cause breakouts?

It depends on the formulation of sunscreen and your skin’s reaction to it. Choose lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreens that get absorbed quickly and are designed for oily skin. Also, make sure to cleanse your skin thoroughly at the end of the day to remove any sunscreen residue that could clog your pores.