You are trying to pick an SPF sunscreen from the shelf, and everything says sun protection, SPF 50+, PA factors, and more. Andnd mostYoumost of the time, picking SPF depends majorly on the "SPF 50 factor", and that's it. Even though this is not wrong, there are many other factos to consider like PA factor, whether you pick the righ one, how much is being applied on skin, and the list goes on.
The real answer is not much around the number or other factors. The three things it involves includes - what rays do the SPF protect from, how much to apply, is reapplication important, and whether you will reach them tomorrow. Lets dive in step by step in detail on this blog for you to pick the best SPF sunscreen.
Which SPF is Best for Face?
1. For everyday usage, you can get your hands on broad spectrum sunscreen with either SPF 30 or SPF 50.
2. Check the UV label for UVA protection, such as whether its PA+, PA++, or PA+++ rating. The better rate, the better protection you will have.
3. Choose the texture which will suit and blend easily on your skin. If you have oily skin, use a gel-based option; And for dry skin you can go with cream-based SPF sunscreen.
4. If you have a long day outside, check if the protection is enough or when you should reapply.
5. While being indoors or in the rainy/cloudy season, check if the sunscreen has been used and protects even the filtered rays.
What the SPF Number Really Tells You
The SPF number in the sunscreen tells you something which is less than you think. And know that there is no huge gap between SPF 30 and SPF 50. SPF (sun Protection Factor) measures the UVB protection and the rays behind sunburn.
- SPF 30 filters roughly around 97% of UVB rays.
- SPF 50 filters around 98% .
The gap is very minimal , and it's completely a myt that "SPF 50 sunscreen gives better protection than SPF 30 sunscreen). The major part lies on the amount of product you use on the face and not the number displayed in the packaging.
The Part of the Label People Skip: UVA
The SPF does not say anything about UVA, and this is a ray which is been related to premature ageing and pigmentation. They tend to reach deeper into the skin and they also pass through window glasses.
When the rays are continuosly getting in contact with skin, they even cause melasma. So, Look for one of these on the pack:
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“Broad-spectrum” on the label
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A PA rating, where more plus signs mean more UVA protection (PA+++ and PA++++ are the higher ratings)
Whe your SPF shows none, it is just an add on in your skincare and is not doing its job.
Why Your Face Needs Its Own Sunscreen Thinking?
Face is one of the areas where sunscreen is worn everyday under your makeup. So, it goes through sweat, oil, and even other factors.
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This is why picking the right finish matters. When you pick the right SPF texture for your face, it will easily get absorbed and does not leave any greasiness or heaviness in the skin.
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When using the sunscreen they should be easily blended with your face along with facewash, moisturizer, serums, etc.
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Avoid missing areas like jawline, ears, under eye, and neck, as these places commonly go unnoticed.
Choosing for Your Skin
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Your skin
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Texture to try
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Keep in mind
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Oily or acne-prone
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Gel, fluid or matte finish
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Look for “non-comedogenic” on the pack, and patch test first
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Normal to dry
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Lotion or cream with a moisturising finish
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Apply on top of your moisturiser, not instead of it
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Sensitive
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Mineral formula, fragrance-free if possible
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Check the ingredient list and patch test behind the ear
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Pigmentation or dark marks
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Strong UVA rating, ideally tinted with iron oxides
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Consistency matters more than any brightening claim
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Deeper skin tones
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A formula you’ve checked for white cast on your own skin
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Test in daylight, not just under bathroom lights
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Active, outdoors a lot
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Water-resistant
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Follow the reapplication instructions on the label
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When you have two options and are confused in picking one, then going with the lighter texture is a better choice, as people tend to reapply for better SPF protection.
Another common doubt which people have is which to choose: mineral or chemical? It is better to know about both before choosing one.
Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or sometimes both. Thier Role is to sit on the top skin layer while leaving a slight white case. People with sensitive skin ofter prefer this type of sunscreen.
Chemical sunscreens use filters which tend to absorb UV. They tend to feel lighter and blend in more easily.
Where you Live Also Matters!
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Factor
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What it means for your sunscreen
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UV is high for much of the year
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In India, the UV index tends to be higher the majority of the days; And even when it's monsoon or cloudy, the UV rays do let through.
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Humidity and sweat are daily realities
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When you pick creamy formulations, they tend to feel better in AC rooms, but in crowded places it acts vice versa.
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Pigmentation is a common concern
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Dark marks and melasma look worse with sun exposure, so UVA and visible-light protection matter more here than a higher SPF.
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White cast is a real filter for choice
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Many sunscreens are tested on lighter skin. Check yours on your own tone.
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Commutes count
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Two-wheelers, auto rides and bus stops add up to more exposure than most people think.
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How to Apply It, and Keep It On
Make sure that they will be the last step in your skin and beginner before makeup.
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Take two full finger products, which will be perfect for your face and neck.
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Dot them over your face, neck, chin, and even jawline.
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Blend them well and let them sit for a minimum 10 - 15mins before heading out.
The one part which people skin or feel discomfort is - while reapplying. According to study, if you are under direct sun exposure for more than 2 hours, ensure to reapply. Keeping a mini version will make this process easier.
If you are looking for one, try Deyga's SPF Sunscreen, our very own top seller which is a mineral sunscreen and has zonc oxide in the formulation for skin protection.
The Bottom Line
For the majority of skin, the best SPF will be either SPF 30 or SPF 50 with better UVA rating. The major aspect to check is how they work on the skin, and will you opt for the product on the next day.
Along with SPF, try to use sunglasses, cover your hands well, use a dupatta to cover your head, or opt for a cap when going out in the harsh sun or mid morning.
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