"Always wear your sunscreen!" "Don't forget to reapply it every now and then" We have all read this innumerable times in articles and blogs. But have you ever paused to consider why using sunscreen is so crucial? The saying "Less is more" can never be applied to sunscreen. Without this essential item, your skincare routine would be incomplete. 

What is Sunscreen?

Sunscreens are used to shield the skin from the sun's damaging rays. They aid in avoiding sunburn and early ageing. Sunscreens also aid in lowering the risk of skin cancer and skin responses similar to sunburn brought on by some drugs. Sunscreens' active chemicals either absorb ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun, keeping it from penetrating the skin's deeper layers, or they reflect it. There are plenty of sunscreens available in the market in the form of Gel, sticks, creams, and lotions. 

Why is Sunscreen important?

• Avoid sunburning

If you don't wear sunscreen, you run a greater risk of being sunburned. Continuous sun exposure can be quite harmful to your health. This includes skin cancer, early ageing, and a variety of other skin conditions.

• Tackle the signs of ageing 

Your elastin, collagen, and skin cells can become damaged from repeated sun exposure with little to no protection. This can eventually result in early ageing symptoms such as discoloration, wrinkles, fine lines, and a leathery appearance. People who spend time in the sun without protection are more likely to experience photoaging or premature ageing. Thankfully, consistent sunscreen use can avoid these skin problems.

• Decreases Inflammation

Our skin can become painfully red and swollen when exposed to UV light. For people with skin conditions like psoriasis or rosacea, this can be particularly difficult. Daily use of sunscreen helps to reduce the risk of inflammation brought on by UV rays. Look for a sunscreen with soothing chemicals like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide if you have delicate skin that is prone to redness. Additionally, you should stay away from spray-on sunscreens because they may have harsh ingredients like alcohol that can dry out your skin.

• Minimize Skin Discoloration

Living with skin discoloration can be challenging, particularly when it develops later in life. These discolored spots, which are often tan to brown in hue, are also known as "sun spots" or "liver spots." Both men and women are susceptible to them, and they frequently manifest on the face, head, hands, and arms. Applying sunscreen frequently throughout the day can aid in preventing the development of these spots on your skin.

How should you apply Sunscreen?

1. Apply enough sunscreen- 

The recommended amount of sunscreen for your face to receive the best protection is three fingers' worth. Your skin should be fully covered with sunscreen.

2.Spread it evenly- 

Apply sunscreen in small dots to your face rather than squeezing a big blob over your hands. This method speeds up and evens out the absorption. 

3.Apply your moisturizer after applying your sunscreen- 

It's best to apply it properly on clean, dry skin. If you use a zinc oxide or titanium dioxide sunscreen, this is less significant.

4.Always use your sunscreen- 

It is believed that sun exposure can occur in most of our mundane activities like sitting by your window. 

When should you apply sunscreen? 

Applying sunscreen is the final stage of your daily skincare routine before starting any makeup application is a crucial step in making sure you're properly protected from damaging UV radiation.

Apply your sunscreen liberally after washing your face in the morning and before using any skin care products, such as toners, serums, moisturizers, or oils. In the same way that you wait for the first layer of nail paint to dry before applying a second coat to ensure it sets well, sunscreen should also be given some time to settle on your face before applying makeup. Give your sunscreen at least two minutes to absorb into your skin before doing any makeup on top of it. During this period, refrain from touching your face. 

The conclusion- 

The bottom line is that the sooner you include sunscreen in your routine, the better it is for your skin in the long term. Follow a proper sunscreen routine . The secret- you need to reapply it every two hours, particularly after activities like swimming. But one needs to be careful of how often they go outside. Mere activities like a brief lunchtime stroll could be harmful to your skin. Ensure to carry your sunscreen with you at all times. When feasible, seek out shade and put on wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, or other protective apparel.