We are all too aware that wearing sunscreens is a skincare commandment that ought to be followed at all times. We’ve heard it hundreds of times, after all. However, they come with their own set of challenges depending upon your skin type. Here is a guide to help you identify the best sunscreen for your skin type so that you no longer have to stress about streakiness, chalkiness, greasiness and inadequate sun protection!
Also Read: Importance of Sunscreen
1. Sensitive skin
Allergy-prone/sensitive skin types should avoid sunscreens containing preservatives, fragrances, parabens or oxybenzone as they may aggravate and irritate the skin. Talk to your physician about the best possible options for you, and in the interim, give mineral sunscreens a shot!
2. Darker skin tones
Darker skin tends to be more susceptible to tanning than getting burnt. However, it still has a possibility of getting burnt if the intensity of sunlight is too much. Opt for a tinted sunscreen with at least SPF 50. With such a sunscreen, you’re guaranteed complete protection (provided you reapply regularly) and the tint provides light coverage with absolutely no white streaks. Avoid titanium-based sunscreens as they can give a white chalky feel.
3. Dry skin
Dry skin has a tendency to get tanned more much more than its oily counterparts. It also tends to appear patchy, especially when sunscreen is applied. No one likes white streaks on the face, so opt for a hydrating sunscreen with a creamy texture to allow for even spreading on dry skin.
4. Oily skin
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Opt for a gel-based or a lightweight matte finish sunscreen or spray to protect oily skin. Since the skin is prone to greasiness, it is easier for the sunscreen to get dissolved in sweat or sebum after a few hours. To ensure that you get maximum protection from your sunscreen, opt for a sweat-proof one and reapply every 3 hours.
5. Acne-prone skin
Zinc-based sunscreens are a boon for this skin type as zinc works miraculously in fighting acne – whether applied on the face or consumed orally. Zinc also works as a physical sunscreen for those who might want to avoid a plethora of chemical ingredients in their sunscreen. Check with your physician to help you pick a brand that will suit your needs. Otherwise, Neutrogena is amazing for zit-prone skin too and won’t leave you feeling super greasy.
Try: Neutrogena Ultra-Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 50 (Rs. 199)
6. Larger body parts
Ensuring uniform coverage is of utmost importance when using sunscreens, because, no matter what the SPF, if you aren’t applying adequate amounts of it, it is probably going to do you no good. Since most sunscreens are thick and often difficult to blend, a spray or lotion type sunscreen can be a boon to target the whole body and for reapplications through the day.
TRY: Lotus Herbals Safe Sun Intensive Sunblock Spray SPF 50 (Rs. 345)
7. Delicate eye and ear skin
We often tend to miss these delicate areas when applying sunscreen. Direct sun exposure to the eye area can cause dark circles and intense damage to the skin. It is crucial that you dab adequate amounts of sunscreen on the ears and around the eyes to ensure that your skin is truly completely protected.
Images: Shutterstock
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