No summer starter kit is complete without sunscreen. A potent (and broad spectrum) sunscreen formula shields your skin, protecting it against UVA and UVB rays. It keeps episodes of burns, photoaging, pigmentation at bay, ensuring optimal skin health. So, skimping on SPF is out of the question.

In this blog, we learn the ABCs of sunscreen and why it is important for your daily skincare routine. We also help you with the best sunscreen suited to your skin type from Foxtale!

 What is sunscreen?

Available in the form of creams, lotions and sticks, a sunscreen shields your skin against the harmful solar UV radiations. Now, essentially all sunscreens can be categorized as follows

1. Physical or Mineral Sunscreen: Physical or mineral sunscreen forms a physical shield on the dermis, reflecting harmful UV radiations. They are formulated with zinc oxide or titanium.

2. Chemical Sunscreen: On the other hand, chemical sunscreens contain active ingredients that percolate into the skin to absorb UV rays. 

To use a borrowed analogy, a physical sunscreen works like a mirror, whereas a chemical sunscreen works like a sponge.

 What are the benefits of sunscreen?

There are several benefits of wearing sunscreen daily

1. Prevents Sunburns: A meticulous sunscreen blocks sunburn causing UVB rays. For the unversed, UVB rays have shorter wavelengths (as compared to UVA) and are often responsible for skin cell mutations.

2. Avoids Premature Ageing: Continued exposure to UV rays damages the collagen and elastin in your skin, leading to early signs of ageing. To prevent the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and more, using a sunscreen regularly is imperative.

3. Reduces Hyperpigmentation And Discolouration: Exposure to UV rays can lead to increased melanin synthesis/ distribution in the skin – often leading to discolouration or hyperpigmentation. To ensure a single-tone complexion and beat the aforementioned concerns, sunscreen is a must-have.

4. Diminishes The Risk Of Flare-Ups: Certain skin conditions like dermatitis and rosacea worsen with sun exposure. Enter sunscreen. A lather of this formula reduces the risk of accidental or pre-medicated flare-ups

 Why do I need to wear sunscreen while indoors? 

Whether you’re hitting exotic locales or staying home this summer, wearing sunscreen is vital. Contrary to popular belief, UV radiations travel through regular glass and can wreak havoc on your skin.

  What is SPF?

You must have come across the term ‘SPF’ in conversations around sunscreen. Well, it is not an arbitrary number on the label of your sun protectant formula but has a specific function.

SPF or Sun Protection Factor, measures the degree of protection your sunscreen ensures against UVB rays. Case in point, SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB radiations, SPF 30 filters out 97%, and SPF 50 obstructs 98% of these harmful radiations.

What is the right way to apply sunscreen?

If you wish to maximize the benefits of your sunscreen, follow this guide to apply sunscreen the right way.

1. Apply 20 Minutes Before Stepping Outdoors: Expert studies suggest that sunscreen takes about 20 minutes to absorb into your skin and start working.

2. Correct Amount Of Sunscreen: If you are confused about the amount of sunscreen for a single wear, follow this simple rule. Dispense the formula along the length of your index and middle fingers. Alternatively, you can use a shot glass amount of SPF to cover your face and neck.

3. Reapplication: If you’re outdoors for a prolonged period, reapplication is necessary. We recommend doing so every two hours. If you have a full face of makeup on – dunk a beauty sponge in your SPF and gently dab on your skin.

 What is the best sunscreen for my skin type?

Skimping on sunscreen on account of your oily skin? We are allowing you to make up for this grave oversight.

 Regardless of your skin type (oily, dry, combination or sensitive), a sunscreen formula in your rotation is of utmost importance. So scroll ahead for the exemplary collection of SPF from Foxtale.

1. Oily Skin: If your pores expel sebum like it's nobody’s business, try Foxtale’s SPF 70 Matte Finish Sunscreen. The formula boasts Niacinamide that curbs oil production and ensures a gorgeous matte finish for your skin. Additionally, it boosts your skin’s brightness by preventing clogged pores. This sunscreen is also a good fit for people with active acne or acne-prone skin.

2. Dry Skin: Struggle with dry, flaky skin? Make BFFs with this Sunscreen SPF 70 with a dewy finish. Its unique formula deeply nourishes and hydrates your skin. Moreover, the three types of Vitamins bolster overall skin health.

3. Combination Skin: Combination skin is characterized by an oily T zone and dry, flaky skin everywhere else. To combat this uneven texture, you can try our Tinted Sunscreen with SPF 50. This lightweight formula, mousse-like formula cloaks blemishes, regulates oil production and gives your skin sheer coverage. Moreover, this sunscreen is water-proof and doesn’t run with sweat.

 FAQs 

1. How should you pick a sunscreen? 

Ans. Here are some factor you need to consider before buying a sunscreen 

1. Suited to your skin type: Pick a sunscreen that is suitable for your skin type. If you have an oily skin type, a mattifying formula would be a good fit for your skincare. On the other hand, if your skin type is dry, opt for a dewy sunscreen.

2. Light, Breathable Formula: Since wearing sunscreen is an everyday activity, opt for a formula that is breathable and non-greasy.

3. No White Cast: Steer clear of sunscreen formulas that leave a white cast behind. For the unversed, white cast is a residual layer that may appear on SPF application.

4. SPF 30 And A Broad Spectrum Formula:  Experts suggest that one should opt for SPF 30 or more for 360-degree sun protection. Additionally, look for a broad-spectrum formula that shields your skin against UVA and UVB radiations.

2. Is there a sunscreen that bodes well for most skin types?

Ans. Foxtale’s SPF 50 Glow Sunscreen is formulated with all skin types in mind. Crafted with Vitamin C and Niacinamide, this sunscreen gives your skin a soft glow while ensuring sun protection.