Are you someone who is worried about wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots or even skin cancer? No you are not alone in this! This is a serious skin cancer for both men and women. Our skin is always exposed and thus we are prone to many skin issues.
Do you wonder why? No, not only due to your liver, kidneys, pancreas or your oily, dandruff full scalp. The sun and its harmful UV rays could be a big reason behind many skin issues.
Studies by National Institutes of Health show 65% to 90% of melanoma cases happen due to UV exposure. The reason behind 90% of skin cancers is also the sun’s harmful UV rays. This also includes basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma .
More than 30% of people do not wear sunscreen on a daily basis. This happens mostly due to the sticky texture of the sunscreen, the excessive sweating after application and also many forget to apply before going out or even at home.
But this won’t help. We need to prevent these skin diseases. We need to spread awareness about how harmful these UV rays are. Our goal should be to make people aware about the benefits of sunscreen at large. This blog will guide you on selecting and using the best sunscreen for face according to your skin type.
Sunscreen For Face : Need of the Hour : Why?
We can often read articles and frequently asked questions on social media, how people very conveniently skip the sunscreen for face and body. Yes you are at home, yes it is cloudy outside, yes it is winters or raining outside. But that is not a reason enough to skip your sunscreen.
In fact, studies showed how the flame from the gas oven in the kitchen and the screen lights from the phones and laptops emit rays. These rays are harmful. They can affect your skin which might lead to spotting and early signs of ageing. This exposure leads to wrinkles, sunspots and uneven skin tone.
Can you imagine your skin constantly battling the sun’s harmful rays? Everyday activities like walking to work or sitting by a window expose you to UV radiation. Without proper protection, your skin suffers. Collagen breaks down. That causes premature aging. Sunburns damage skin cells and increase the risk of melanoma.
Another major reason because of which people usually avoid using sunscreen is the after effects. After applying sunscreen, many of us sweat a lot. We at times find a white caste on the face. Some of our faces turn black and oily too. Most importantly, we need to reapply sunscreen almost every 3 hours. But fact is – We Need Sunscreens To Protect Our Delicate Skin.
So, how can you shield yourself from all these dangers, myths and mental blocks? The only answer to that is consistent use of Sunscreen for face.
Embrace Sunscreen For Face For Sun Protection
The first line of defence for your skin against sun damage is using a good broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 and more. A high quality sunscreen creates a barrier and blocks harmful UV rays. But you must have been confused on which one to buy as there are so many sunscreens there in the market.
Criteria for A Good Sunscreen for Face
- Your sunscreen should be a physical sunscreen.
- It should be SPF 50 and above for better sun protection.
- Your sunscreen should be broad spectrum and PA++++ in nature protecting the skin from UVA and UVB rays.
- The formula that you will choose should be non-sticky and easily absorbable in skin.
- Your sunscreen should suit your skin type to provide optimal results.
Types of Sunscreen for Face
There are 3 main types of sunscreen:
Physical(mineral) Sunscreen:
Physical(mineral) sunscreens contain mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. They remain on top of the skin and physically block UV rays. It is a better option than any other sunscreen. Mineral sunscreen starts working just after application.
Chemical Sunscreen:
Chemical sunscreens use ingredients that absorb UV radiation. They convert it into heat. Then it is released from the skin. They are easy to apply. It takes 15 – 30 minutes to start working after application. It is not advised by dermatologists as some of the chemical filters may get absorbed in the bloodstream.
Hybrid Sunscreen:
Hybrid sunscreens are a mix of both the physical and chemical filters. This type of sunscreen usually provides a broader spectrum to protect the skin. These can be a bit more expensive but it provides a combined benefit.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Face According to Your Skin Type
Choosing the right sunscreen is not that easy. But as we say nothing is impossible. So a little bit of research could provide you with the right one. One easy way to get your perfect sunscreen is according to your skin type.
- Oily Skin – Finding the best sunscreen for oily skin can be a challenge at times. You need oil-free, gel based sunscreens for oily skin. They don’t clog pores. You would not sweat profusely when using a gel based thin textured sunscreen. Like Beauty of Joseon Relief Sunscreen.
- Dry Skin – You can use a slightly thicker and creamy formula. It will protect your skin from the sun. It also will be hydrating and moisturizes your skin providing more protection. Like Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Moist Sunscreen Serum.
- Normal Skin – The magic lies here. Your skin type allows you to try out any type of sunscreen.
- Combination Skin – It’s tricky here. Best would be to go for a gel based sunscreen. That will provide protection and hydration both while preventing sudden breakouts.
- Sensitive Skin – Due to the sensitivity, it is best for you to opt for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic sunscreens.
Sunscreen Application Tips & More:
- Apply sunscreen as the last step in your skincare routine Guide, before makeup.
- Apply it liberally 15-30 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating.
- Don’t forget often-missed areas like the ears, neck, and hairline.
- Use a separate sunscreen for your face and body. Sunscreen for face is often lighter and less likely to clog pores.
- Even on cloudy days, apply sunscreen. UV rays can penetrate clouds.
- You should use about a nickel-sized amount of sunscreen for your face. Make sure to cover all exposed areas.
- Don’t forget to check the expiration date. Expired sunscreen is less effective.
- Try to consider mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
- Always read labels and choose products that are appropriate for your skin type.
Debunking Some Sunscreen Myths
Myth: Darker skin people don’t need sunscreen. They don’t get tanned.
Fact: Regardless of skin colour, everyone needs sunscreen. Every skin tone is prone to skin diseases including skin cancer without proper sun protection.
Myth: You only need sunscreen on sunny days.
Fact: The sun is visible every day. Even on cloudy days, the sun might look deemed. But the UV rays are capable of harming your skin without sun protection just the same as any sunny days.
Myth: Makeup with SPF is enough.
Fact: No, makeup with SPF is just not enough. You need a proper sunscreen in the daytime to provide your skin proper protection.
Myth: 3 finger sized sunscreen should be applied on the face.
Fact: Dermatologists suggest only a nickel size amount to apply on the face.
Final Thoughts
Investing in high end brands for moisturizers, face wash, toners and makeup would not help you. It would not stop sun spots, skin diseases, uneven skin tone and skin cancer from appearing.
Investing in a good Sunscreen for face with SPF50 and broad spectrum is an important step. It ensures skin protection from harmful UV rays. Using sunscreen generously is as important as keeping your skin hydrated.
Yes, some sunscreens could give you white cast, some make you sweat profusely. Some of them make your skin feel suffocating. So you just have to follow this guide properly and invest in a good sunscreen which suits you the best.
So don’t wait any longer. Now that you are well aware about the pros and cons of sunscreen, go buy it!
Sunscreen Essentials by CherryOnTopBlog
Your ultimate guide to sun protection that actually works
Effective skincare starts with one non-negotiable step: daily sunscreen protection, and CherryOnTopBlog is your trusted guide to mastering this essential skincare habit. With studies showing that 65% to 90% of melanoma cases result from UV exposure, CherryOnTopBlog champions sunscreen as the foundation of any serious skincare routine. Our skincare experts help you navigate broad-spectrum SPF 50+ formulations, from lightweight gel-based options for oily skin to hydrating creamy formulas for comprehensive skincare protection. At CherryOnTopBlog, we believe true skincare success means protecting your skin from harmful UV rays every single day—making sunscreen the cornerstone of your daily skincare regimen.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- How often should one reapply sunscreen?
→ You should reapply sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Even waterproof sunscreens need to be reapplied regularly.
- What ingredients should one avoid in sunscreen with oily skin?
→ Avoid sunscreens containing oils, fragrances, or alcohol. These can clog pores and cause breakouts. Look for non-comedogenic formulas specifically designed for oily skin.
- Can one use body sunscreen on the face?
→ While you can, it’s generally not recommended. Body sunscreens are often thicker and can clog pores, leading to breakouts. It’s best to use a sunscreen specifically formulated for the face.
- Is SPF50 enough?
→ SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB rays. It’s a good choice for daily use.