Sunscreen is an absolute necessity and by now everyone should know that. It protects the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun and pollutants too. A popular misconception is that you only need to slather it on during the summer months but this really isn’t true, UV rays can cause considerable damage to your skin throughout the year. In fact, you should even incorporate it into your beauty routine when you’re staying indoors. Did you know that UVA rays which enter through the standard glass window and can penetrate deeper into the skin than UVB rays and become a main contributing factor to photo-aging? Hence, you will notice dark spots, wrinkles, and leathery textured skin.
Now, since we’ve scared you enough and emphasized that sunscreen should be your new best friend (if it isn’t already), we’re here to help you understand which one would be ideal for your skin type. We asked Ms. Plabita Sharma, The Body Shop Expert, to talk to us about the same, and here’s what she told us.
How Do You Determine Your Skin Type?
When we look at it broadly there are four skin types and the first step to choosing the perfect sunscreen for you, you have to know what your skin type really is. Here is how you do it:
Step One: Wash your face with the help of a gentle cleanser. This will help clean your skin and get rid of all the makeup, dirt, grime, and pollutants that may be there.
Step Two: Wait for an hour and do not touch your face during this time period.
Step Three: After this, your skin would be in its natural state so take a tissue paper and dab it on your face. Concentrate on your forehead and nose.
Normal Skin: If your skin shows no oil or no flaking and it feels smooth and supple, you have a normal skin type.
Oily Skin: If there is lots of grease on the tissue paper, then you have an oily skin type. It is common that you might have a shine and large pores.
Dry Skin: If the tissue paper is accompanied by lots of flakes and dead skin, then your skin is dry. You need to consider moisturizing your skin
Combination: Any combination of the above-mentioned skin types is a combination skin type. This is a very common skin type. Your skin is generally oily in the forehead and nose area and dry elsewhere.
Which Sunscreen Is The Best For Your Skin Type?
Now that you have determined what your skin type is, here are the best sunscreens for you.
For Normal Skin
“If you’re blessed with normal, uncomplicated skin, your choice is easy. Any high-quality sunscreen will work for you, whether spray, cream, or stick”, says Ms. Sharma. We suggest The Body Shop sunscreen because it promises 24-hour moisturisation without being greasy. It also helps protect the skin and prevent pigmentation and premature aging. It contains red algae and Vitamin C which help make your skin brighter and healthier.
For Oily Skin
For oily skin, you should opt for a water-based sunscreen with a lightweight formula. This one by Keihl’s is just that- it’s great for people living in humid climates and has a water and gel-like consistency. It’s non-comedogenic and fragrance-free meaning that it will not block and clog your pores- which is almost a necessity for people with oily skin.
For Dry Skin
If you have dry skin, look for a sunscreen with a moisturising and hydrating ingredients. This one by Innisfree is great for people with dry skin because it provides lightweight moisture and helps improve flaky texture. It’s hypoallergenic making it also great if you have sensitive skin.
For Combination Skin
For people who love natural skincare, the Kama Ayurveda one is a good option. It’s got minerals like titanium dioxide and zinc dioxide which naturally reflect the harmful UV rays back. It has also got glycerine, shea butter, and olive oil that moiturise the skin without making it greasy. It’s got a blend of nutmeg, ginger, and lime essential oils for a fresh and citrusy fragrance.
So, ready to make sunscreen your BFF?
Featured Image: Instagram
