The Ultimate Sunscreen Guide 2026: How to Choose, Use & Reapply Sunscreen
12 min read
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Quick Answer: How to Choose and Use Sunscreen on Face
Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen that suits your skin type, with PA+++ or PA++++ for strong UVA protection. For longer outdoor exposure, SPF 50 can be a practical choice. Apply an adequate amount to your face, neck, and other exposed areas 15 minutes before going outdoors, and reapply every 2 hours when outdoors or immediately after swimming, sweating or towel-drying.
For Indian skin and weather, consider a sunscreen that feels comfortable in heat and humidity, suits your skin type, minimises white cast, and addresses concerns such as tanning and pigmentation. Consistent sunscreen use, along with shade and protective clothing, helps reduce UV-related skin damage.
Sunscreen is an essential part of daily sun protection. This guide explains how to choose sunscreen, how to use sunscreen on face, how much sunscreen to apply on face, when to apply and reapply it, and what SPF and PA++++ mean. It also covers sunscreen for different skin types and practical considerations for Indian weather, including heat, humidity, sweating, tanning, and pigmentation.
Reviewed by: Dr. Ramesh Surianarayanan, Head- R&D (Foxtale)
What Is Sunscreen?
What is sunscreen? Sunscreen is a skincare product that protects your skin from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Its UV filters either absorb UV rays (chemical filters) or scatter and reflect them (mineral filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide). The main uses of sunscreen are preventing sunburn, tanning, pigmentation and early ageing, and lowering skin cancer risk. It comes as gels, creams, fluids, lotions, sticks and sprays.
What Is SPF?
What is SPF in sunscreen? SPF means Sun Protection Factor. It tells you how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. SPF 15 filters about 93% of UVB, SPF 30 about 97%, and SPF 50 about 98%. No sunscreen blocks 100% of UVB rays. Dermatologists recommend at least SPF 30 for daily use, and SPF 50 for longer periods outdoors. A higher SPF doesn't mean all-day protection, which is why you still need to reapply. UV is strongest around midday, so that's when reapplication matters most.
Read More: For the difference between SPF and UVA protection, read our SPF vs PA guide.
What Is Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen?
Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB radiation. UVB is a major cause of sunburn, while UVA contributes to tanning, pigmentation, and premature skin ageing. Both UVA and UVB can contribute to skin damage and skin cancer risk. For daily protection, especially in a climate with frequent sun exposure, choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and appropriate UVA protection.
What Is PA in Sunscreen?
PA is a UVA protection rating used widely on sunscreens in India and other Asian markets. It is based on UVA Protection Factor (UVA-PF), and the number of plus signs indicates the level of UVA protection.
- PA+ = some UVA protection
- PA++ = moderate UVA protection
- PA+++ = high UVA protection
- PA++++ = extremely high UVA protection
If you're searching for what PA+++ in sunscreen means, PA+++ indicates high UVA protection, while PA++++ represents the highest grade in the PA rating system.
UVA protection is particularly relevant for concerns such as tanning and pigmentation. For people with deeper skin tones who are prone to hyperpigmentation, visible light can also contribute to pigmentation. Tinted sunscreens containing iron oxides may provide additional visible-light protection alongside UV protection.
How to Choose Sunscreen for Your Face
Knowing how to choose sunscreen comes down to five key factors: SPF, UVA protection, broad-spectrum coverage, formula suitability, and your level of sun exposure. For Indian skin, also consider heat, humidity, sweating, tanning, pigmentation, and whether the sunscreen leaves a visible white cast.
1. Check the SPF and PA Rating
Wondering which SPF sunscreen is best? Choose SPF 30 or higher for daily use and consider SPF 50 for longer outdoor exposure. Pair it with strong UVA protection, such as PA+++ or PA++++, when available.
2. Look for an In Vivo Tested Sunscreen
An in vivo tested sunscreen has its sun-protection performance evaluated on human skin under controlled testing conditions. In vivo testing can provide useful evidence about the protection delivered by the finished sunscreen formulation. However, consumers should still check the product label and the testing information provided by the brand.
Read more about in vivo vs in vitro sunscreen testing.
3. Check the UV Filters
Modern sunscreens may contain organic, inorganic, or hybrid UV filters. Rather than choosing a sunscreen based only on whether it is labelled "chemical" or "mineral", look for broad-spectrum protection, appropriate SPF/UVA protection and a formula that suits your skin.
4. Look for Water Resistance When Needed
If you sweat heavily, exercise outdoors or spend time swimming, look for a sunscreen labelled water-resistant. Water-resistant sunscreens are tested to maintain their labelled SPF protection for either 40 or 80 minutes in water, depending on the product claim. They still need to be reapplied after swimming, sweating or towel-drying.
5. Match Sunscreen to Your Skin Type
Wondering which sunscreen is best for oily skin, dry skin or combination skin? Texture and finish matter because a sunscreen that feels comfortable is easier to use consistently.
Note: Foxtale product suitability should be verified against the current product formulation and PDP before publication.
Types of Sunscreen: Mineral vs Chemical vs Hybrid
The three common sunscreen categories are mineral, chemical, and hybrid sunscreens. Mineral sunscreens use inorganic UV filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide; chemical sunscreens use organic UV filters; and hybrid sunscreens combine both. The most important factors are broad-spectrum protection, SPF, UVA protection, formula suitability, and consistent application.
What Is Mineral Sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreen uses filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to protect against UV radiation. Zinc oxide can provide broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. Mineral formulas can be suitable for people who prefer these filters, but some formulations may leave a visible white cast, particularly on deeper skin tones.
What Is Chemical Sunscreen?
Chemical sunscreens use organic UV filters that absorb UV radiation. They are often formulated in lightweight textures and may be easier to blend without a visible white cast. Chemical sunscreen still needs to be reapplied every 2 hours when outdoors, regardless of its SPF, and sooner after swimming or sweating.
What Is Hybrid Sunscreen?
Hybrid sunscreens combine mineral and organic UV filters in one formula. They can offer broad-spectrum protection while balancing texture, finish, and cosmetic elegance.
Additionally: What Is Tinted Sunscreen?
Tinted sunscreen is sunscreen with iron oxide pigments that provide light coverage and can help reduce the appearance of uneven skin tone. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, iron oxides can also help protect against visible light, which may worsen dark spots.
Explore Foxtale Tinted Fluid Sunscreen.
Look Beyond Just Sun Protection
The best sunscreen is one you will actually wear every day. Look for a formula that feels comfortable, suits your skin type, layers well with the rest of your skincare and makeup, and fits your daily routine. Consistent application and reapplication are key to maintaining sun protection.
Chemical vs Physical Sunscreen: Key Differences
- Filters: Mineral sunscreens use inorganic filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide; chemical sunscreens use organic UV filters.
- Texture: Mineral formulas can feel thicker depending on the formulation, while many chemical formulas are lightweight.
- White cast: Some mineral formulas can leave a visible cast, while many chemical formulas blend more transparently.
- Skin type: Neither category is universally best for one skin type. Choose based on skin sensitivity, texture preference, finish, and protection.
- Reapplication: Both types need reapplication according to exposure and product directions, including every 2 hours when outdoors.
For dry skin, Foxtale's Dewy Finish Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++ can be positioned as a dewy-finish option, subject to current PDP verification.
Read our guide to SPF 30 vs SPF 50 vs SPF 70 sunscreen.
Benefits of Sunscreen: Why Do You Need It Daily?
The benefits of sunscreen include reducing UV exposure that contributes to sunburn, tanning, premature skin ageing, and pigmentation, while regular sun protection can also help reduce skin cancer risk. Sunscreen works best when combined with shade, protective clothing, and other sun-protection measures.
1. Helps Reduce Sunburn and Tanning
Does sunscreen prevent tanning? It greatly reduces tanning because broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB radiation. However, no sunscreen blocks 100% of UV radiation, so some tanning can still occur, particularly when sunscreen is not applied adequately or reapplied as recommended. If tanning is your primary concern, choose a broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen and reapply it as recommended.
Read our guide on how sunscreen helps prevent and reduce tanning.
2. Helps Reduce Visible Signs of Photoageing
Regular sun protection reduces exposure to UV radiation, which contributes to visible signs of photoageing such as uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles. Consistent sunscreen use is therefore an important part of a long-term skincare routine.
3. Helps Protect Against UV-Related Skin Damage
UV exposure can contribute to skin damage and inflammation. Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen helps reduce the amount of UV radiation reaching exposed skin. For stronger protection, combine sunscreen with shade, protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses.
4. Helps Manage the Impact of UV Exposure on Pigmentation
Sunscreen can help reduce further UV-related pigmentation and prevent existing dark spots from becoming more noticeable. This is particularly relevant for concerns such as melasma, post-acne marks, and uneven skin tone.
For people prone to pigmentation, tinted sunscreen containing iron oxides may provide additional protection against visible-light-induced pigmentation. Research has found benefits from iron-oxide-containing formulations in people with skin of colour and hyperpigmentation.
5. Helps Reduce Skin Cancer Risk
Regular use of sunscreen is one part of a broader sun-protection strategy that can help reduce exposure to UV radiation associated with skin cancer. Use sunscreen alongside shade, protective clothing, and other measures rather than relying on sunscreen alone.
How to Use Sunscreen on Face: Step-by-Step
Here is how to use sunscreen on your face correctly: apply it as the last step of your morning skincare routine, use enough to cover exposed skin, apply it about 15 minutes before going outdoors, and reapply every 2 hours when outdoors. Reapply sooner after swimming, sweating or towel-drying.
1. Step 1: Choose the Right Sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen that suits your skin type and daily exposure. For longer outdoor exposure, SPF 50 can be a practical choice.
2. Step 2: Apply Moisturiser Before Sunscreen: What should you apply first, moisturiser or sunscreen? Apply moisturiser first and sunscreen afterwards.
The correct basic order is:
Cleanser → serum/treatment → moisturiser → sunscreen → makeup
If your sunscreen is sufficiently moisturising for your skin, you may not need a separate moisturiser. If you are going outdoors later in the morning or afternoon, apply sunscreen before exposure rather than waiting until you are already in the sun.
3. Step 3: Use Enough Sunscreen: How much sunscreen to apply on face? A commonly used approach is the two-finger method for the face and neck. The exact amount needed can vary with the size of the area being covered. The important point is to apply a generous, even layer rather than using a very small amount.
4. Step 4: Apply Evenly: Dot the sunscreen across your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin before spreading it evenly. Do not forget areas that are often missed, including:
- Ears
- Hairline
- Neck
- Around the sides of the face
If you're using a fluid sunscreen, shake the bottle if the product directions recommend it.
5. Step 5: Wait 15 Minutes Before Sun Exposure: Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going outdoors. This is the recommended timing from the American Academy of Dermatology.
6. Step 6: Reapply Every 2 Hours Outdoors: Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours when outdoors and immediately after swimming, sweating or towel-drying. This applies regardless of whether you use SPF 30 or SPF 50.
Should You Apply Sunscreen at Home?
Yes, particularly if sunlight reaches you through windows or you spend significant time near windows. Glass blocks most UVB but allows a substantial amount of UVA to pass through. Therefore, people who regularly sit near sunny windows can still receive UVA exposure indoors.
You do not need sunscreen because of computer or phone screens. The reason to consider sunscreen indoors is sunlight exposure through windows, not ordinary screen use.
Who Should Wear Sunscreen?
Anyone exposed to sunlight can benefit from sun protection, regardless of gender or skin tone. Melanin provides some natural protection against UVB-related effects, but darker skin can still experience tanning, pigmentation, photoageing, and other UV-related damage.
People with deeper skin tones who are prone to hyperpigmentation may also benefit from considering visible-light protection, such as appropriately formulated tinted sunscreens containing iron oxides.
For Indian skin, sunscreen selection should consider:
- Heat and humidity
- Sweating
- Outdoor commuting
- Tanning
- Pigmentation and post-acne marks
- White cast
- Texture and comfort
- Reapplication practicality
How to Reapply Sunscreen Over Makeup
Reapplying sunscreen over makeup can be challenging. Whenever possible, apply another adequate layer of sunscreen to exposed skin. For makeup-heavy routines, a fluid sunscreen can sometimes be pressed onto the skin carefully with a clean makeup sponge.
Sunscreen sticks can also be useful for targeted reapplication, but should not replace an adequate initial sunscreen layer. Powders and sprays may be convenient in some situations, but achieving an adequate, even amount can be difficult. They should not automatically be treated as equivalent to applying a full sunscreen layer.
Can I Apply Sunscreen Without Moisturiser?
Yes, you can apply sunscreen without a separate moisturiser if the sunscreen provides enough hydration for your skin. If your skin is dry, flaky, or uncomfortable after sunscreen application, applying a moisturiser underneath may improve comfort. The key is to avoid unnecessary layering if your sunscreen already meets your skin's hydration needs.
Sunscreen in Indian Weather: What Should You Look For?
Indian weather can make sunscreen selection more challenging because heat, humidity, and sweating can affect comfort and reapplication. Choose a sunscreen based on your skin type, exposure, and whether you need water resistance.
- For hot and humid weather: Look for lightweight textures that do not feel excessively greasy or sticky.
- For heavy sweating: Consider a product with a water-resistance claim if you spend time outdoors or exercise.
- For tanning and pigmentation: Prioritise broad-spectrum protection with strong UVA protection. If you are particularly prone to hyperpigmentation, consider a suitable tinted sunscreen containing iron oxides for additional visible-light protection.
- For deeper skin tones: Choose formulas that blend comfortably without leaving an unwanted white cast. Tinted options can be particularly useful for people who want visible-light protection alongside UV protection.
Busting Common Sunscreen Myths
Myth 1: People With Darker Skin Tones Don't Need Sunscreen
Fact: Melanin provides some natural UV protection, but it does not eliminate UV-related skin damage. Darker skin tones can still experience tanning, pigmentation, photoageing, and skin cancer.
Visible light is also increasingly recognised as a contributor to pigmentation, particularly in skin of colour.
Myth 2: You Only Need Sunscreen When You're Outdoors
Fact: If sunlight reaches you through windows, UVA exposure can still occur indoors. Glass blocks most UVB but allows substantial UVA transmission.
Therefore, sunscreen can be relevant at home or work when you spend time near windows.
Myth 3: Makeup With SPF Is Enough
Fact: Makeup with SPF can provide additional protection, but it should not automatically replace sunscreen. You may not apply enough makeup to achieve the SPF shown on its label.
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen underneath makeup for more reliable coverage.
Read our sunscreen myths vs facts guide.
The Bottom Line: How to Use Sunscreen Correctly
- Choose SPF 30 or higher: Consider SPF 50 for longer outdoor exposure.
- Look for broad-spectrum protection: Protect against both UVA and UVB.
- Choose appropriate UVA protection: PA+++ or PA++++ can help indicate strong UVA protection.
- Use enough: Apply an adequate, even layer to the face, neck, and other exposed areas.
- Apply at the right time: Put sunscreen on about 15 minutes before going outdoors.
- Reapply: Reapply every 2 hours outdoors and after swimming, sweating or towel-drying.
- Adapt to Indian weather: Consider heat, humidity, sweat, tanning, pigmentation, and white cast.
- Add other protection: Use shade, protective clothing, hats, and UV-protective sunglasses when possible.
For more practical guidance, read our guides on common sunscreen mistakes and why you should wear sunscreen daily.
Sources
- Skin Cancer Foundation-UVA/UVB exposure and transmission through glass.
- Peer-reviewed dermatology research- visible light, iron oxides, and pigmentation in skin of colour.
- Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology- review of tinted sunscreens and photoprotection beyond UV radiation.
- Recent 2026 dermatology literature- iron oxide-containing tinted sunscreens and visible-light-induced hyperpigmentation.
FAQs
Does Sunscreen Prevent Tanning?
Sunscreen greatly reduces tanning because broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. However, no sunscreen blocks 100% of UV radiation, so mild tanning can still occur, especially without adequate application or reapplication.
What Does PA++++ Mean in Sunscreen?
PA++++ indicates a high level of UVA protection based on UVA Protection Factor (UVA-PF). If you're searching for what PA+++ means in sunscreen, PA+++ indicates high UVA protection, while PA++++ is the highest grade in the PA system.
Can We Apply Powder After Sunscreen?
Yes, you can apply powder after sunscreen. Let the sunscreen settle first, then apply loose or compact powder gently to minimise disturbing the sunscreen layer.
Should We Apply Sunscreen at Home?
Yes, if sunlight reaches you through windows. UVA can pass through glass, so regular exposure near windows can contribute to tanning and skin ageing over time.
Can We Apply Sunscreen at Night?
There's no need to apply sunscreen at night. Sunscreen protects against UV radiation from the sun. At night, use your moisturiser or treatment products instead, and remove sunscreen before bed.
Does Sunscreen Expire?
Yes. Check the expiry date or period-after-opening information on your sunscreen. Expired sunscreen may provide less reliable protection. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that using expired sunscreen is one reason people may still experience sunburn.
Can Sunscreen Cause Cancer?
Approved sunscreens are not established as a cause of cancer when used as directed. Sunscreen is used to reduce exposure to UV radiation, which is a known risk factor for skin cancer. Use sunscreen alongside shade, protective clothing, and other sun-protection measures.
Do You Need Sunscreen in Monsoon or Winter?
Yes. UV exposure can occur throughout the year, including during monsoon and winter. Clouds can reduce some sunlight but do not eliminate UV exposure. If you are exposed to daylight outdoors, broad-spectrum sunscreen can help protect against UVA and UVB radiation.
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Skinimalism- Bringing a Whole New Meaning to "Less is More"
Dr. Ramesh Surianarayanan, Head- R&D (Foxtale)
Bringing over three decades of experience in cosmetic science and personal care innovation, he currently leads product innovation, formulation development, and efficacy testing at Foxtale. At Foxtale, he focuses on developing high-performance skincare products specifically designed for Indian skin, with a strong emphasis on safety, efficacy, and consumer needs. Prior to Foxtale, he led R&D and formulation initiatives at leading companies including Unilever and Himalaya, building extensive expertise in skincare formulation and scientific product development.
A skincare and beauty content writer passionate about creating research-backed content on skincare, beauty, wellness, and lifestyle. She regularly studies dermatologist recommendations, ingredient research, clinical findings, and industry trends to deliver accurate and actionable insights. Through her writing, she helps readers navigate skincare routines, understand ingredients, address common skin concerns, and make informed choices for healthier skin and overall well-being.
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Skinimalism- Bringing a Whole New Meaning to "Less is More"
5 min read
IN THIS ARTICLE
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Were you also someone who succumbed to the hype of the 10-step Korean skincare routine and ended up trying it? Just because you can use a hydrating essence, brightening serum, moisturizing face mask, and whatnot, doesn’t mean you absolutely have to. Using the right amount of products can also help you achieve the radiant skin you’ve been wishing for! It is essential to remain mindful of the number of products you’re purchasing and the impact it's having on our Earth ( and on the skin as well).
With skincare, the internet might tell you that more is more. When you can get the goodness of an AHA, BHA, and a retinoid, why wouldn’t you use them to try to get the brightest, smoothest skin you possibly can? But if you cocktail too many products all at once, in an effort to get the most efficient results super quickly, you could be overwhelming your skin instead of giving it the tools to thrive. Enter: Skinimalism, which urges you to do the least, instead of the absolute most.
What is skinimalism?
Skinimalism ascribes stripping back your skincare routine in favour of a simpler approach. Think about reducing the number of products and active ingredients in your regimen or using two-in-ones that have more than one benefit. If you follow an intuitive skincare route, you can give your skin what it needs at the moment. As opposed to overwhelming it with everything all at once. So, instead of layering on 12 products, you’re hydrating with a hyaluronic acid-based serum when you feel dry, calming it with a face mask when it’s irritated, and exfoliating when your skin is breaking out or peeling.
Why is this a good idea?
1.Saves time and money-
This is probably the most obvious benefit of Skinimalism. When you’re conscious about the amount of money you're investing in skincare, you focus only on the products you actually need. If doing that complicated skincare routine took you thirty minutes, following skinimalism will help you finish it off in 10.
2.Enjoy full benefits-
Often when you layer too many products on your skin, you might not be giving it the appropriate time to properly settle onto the skin. Skinimalism ensures you use fewer products, in that way your skin can take advantage of the product to its best potential.
3.Less reaction-
Experimenting with too many products can actually wreak havoc on the skin’s natural moisture barrier, which is made of skin cells, lipids, cholesterol, amino acids, and fatty acids. This layer acts like a protective sheath, so if you break it down with too many AHAs or retinoids, you can cause inflammation and irritation.
It also messes with the skin’s PH. The skin’s acid mantle is slightly acidic for a reason: to keep moisture in, and bacteria out. But if it’s too alkaline thanks to the extra-clarifying soap you’re using, or too acidic, you could cause inflammatory conditions like eczema or acne.
Who is this good for?
Everyone! But especially those with sensitive skin types. If you’re finding that your skincare products have been causing more harm than good, you’re likely trying too much too fast, and it’s giving your skin information overload. The same goes for those with acne-prone skin—if you break out, you might be trying too much to get rid of your zits but may land up causing inflammation or barrier issues instead.
What are the products under Skinimalism?
The products that your skin absolutely requires should be included in your routine, followed by products that address your other skin concerns relating to acne and pigmentation. Here’s how to build a routine and stick to basics!
1.Cleanser
Whether it is a 10- step or 2-step routine, a cleanser is a must. It allows your skin to breathe after a day of being exposed to pollutants, dust, and sweat. How? It helps remove all the dirt and grime that has accumulated on the face, just like Hydrating facewash, which is a deeply hydrating cleanser that’ll help you to unclog pores and brighten the skin simultaneously.
2.Moisturizer
Using moisturizers that are rich in antioxidants and ceramides will help in fighting free radicals that might be damaging to the skin and effectively hydrate it as well. It facilitates improving hydration. Ceramides can increase hydration and help to retain moisture. Foxtale’s smoothening moisturizer will help your skin achieve a smoother texture and maintain its barrier.
3.Sunscreen
Layering your skincare products without sunscreen can render them ineffective. Sunscreen is an essential part of your routine and should be included (if you're looking for a sign, this is it). It not only protects you from the sun's harmful UV rays, but it also reduces the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles.
If you're someone who has oily and acne-prone skin, Foxtale’s matte finish sunscreen will be your best friend. It leaves no white cast and gives the perfect matte finish, along with protecting your skin. People with dry skin, don't feel left out. Our dewy finish sunscreen will do the perfect job of protecting you from harmful UV rays and giving it the hydration it deserves!
Additional concerns
While cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen are the ABCs of your routine, there must definitely be some more concerns that your skin must be having. If you’re suffering from hyperpigmentation, use a Vitamin C serum. Vitamin C serum will help reduce pigmentation and brighten your skin. If you want to tackle acne, use products containing salicylic acid as it unclogs pores and cleans them deeply, and decreases sebum production leading to fewer breakouts. Foxtale’s Acne spot corrector gel will help reduce pimple-related inflammation and redness.
The conclusion-
Skinimalism is all about being conscious of the products you use on your face and not getting caught up in the hype of using a thousand products. It is an excellent start towards a more sustainable way of life. The lesser, the better.
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Somewhere, in some part of the world, there’s a girl highlighting a favourite line from a book and thinking, “Damn! I hope I remember this!” That’s Nikitha. Apart from reading, you’ll most probably find her stalking random Reddit threads, discussing conspiracy theories and binge-watching movies.
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Peanut butter and jelly, Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez, Vitamin C and ferulic acid. Some matches are made in heaven. But in the realm of lotions and potions, mixing and matching could be risky business instead. Learning to (not to) layer skincare is an art.
The benefits of your favourite skincare actives—Vitamin C! Niacinamide! Retinoids!— are all over the internet. It is easy to fall prey to the cure-all layering routines that promise smooth, poreless skin in just a few weeks. But that get-glow-quick scheme can leave your skin overstimulated if you’re whipping dangerous skincare cocktails. These are not only be harmful together, but could also cancel each other out. If you’re a neophyte, you may want to keep these ingredient non-pairings in mind before putting your routine together.
Retinoids + Vitamin C = redness, irritation and potential sunburns.
Retinoids are Vitamin A derivatives that rev up skin cell turnover. This unclogs dead skin cells and helps improve collagen production. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that blocks tyrosinase production (which is responsible for pigmentation) and scavenges free radicals too. Both these powerhouse ingredients are anti-ageing marvels. But when layered together, they leave your skin photosensitive, which can increase chances for sun damage. These ingredients have a huge pH gap, so if you wear both together, you could be lowering the retinoid’s pH and raising the Vitamin C’s pH levels. This means that both ingredients could be rendered useless. For best results, use a Vitamin C serum in the AM and then apply a Vitamin A-based product on at night.
Retinoids + Alpha Hydroxy Acids = raw, painful skin.
Retinoids and AHAs (like lactic or malic acid) both improve cell turnover, bolster collagen production and promise to leave your skin blemish, fine line and pigmentation-free. But if you’re tempted to use both together in an attempt to get brighter skin quicker, wait! Both remove dead skin layers on the top, thinning out the skin in the process. This can cause contact dermatitis, burns or scarring, especially if your skin isn’t used to exfoliation.
Retinoids + Benzoyl Peroxide = Irritation, and zero effects.
The theme here is to use retinoids carefully—they’re good servants, but bad masters. This is especially so when used with benzoyl peroxide. The two anti-acne ingredients work in very different ways, and may actually cancel out each other when used together. Benzoyl peroxide is able to kill the p.acnes bacteria that causes acne. Because when it is applied, it degrades and releases oxygen, which is able to kill the bacteria on the surface. Retinoids, on the other hand, work by reducing comedone creation by reducing pore obstructions by keratin and debris.
Benzoyl Peroxide + Vitamin C = no results.
If you have a zit and a patch of pigmentation, you may want to fix both, ASAP. But if you spot treat with BPO and then apply a Vitamin C-based toner, neither will actually work. Benzoyl peroxide works by creating oxygen, which oxidises the already-unstable L-ascorbic acid molecules, rendering them both useless.
We did an in-depth dive into the perils of acne and how to fix them, here.
Niacinamide + AHAs = potential irritation and redness.
Niacinamide helps restore cellular energy, repair damaged DNA, which makes it a cure-all ingredient that most pros love to suggest. While some people can tolerate these two ingredients together, some with sensitive skin may be worried about the niacin flush—which occurs when niacinamide hydrolyses into nicotinic acid when combined with an acidic product. This conversation can cause facial flushing, which can result in redness and tingling.
There really can be too much of a good thing—and some power duos are best used separately instead of together. It might be best to ease in actives and space them out, because too many strong ingredients–while they may feel satisfying in the short run—can hurt more than they can help.
The list of skincare DON’Ts is never ending – and we are happy to discuss it all with you! Click on our WhatsApp icon to chat with us at any time!
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Passionate about beauty, Srishty’s body of work spans 5 years. She loves novel makeup techniques, latest skincare trends, and pop culture references. When she isn’t working, you will find her reading, Netflix-ing or trying to bake something in her kitchen.
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Sometimes DIY skincare can do more harm than good
3 min read
When you’re inundated by skincare brands and products that claim to be your best option, it is fair to wish for simple solutions that promise to solve your issues in the most natural way possible—using ingredients from your kitchen. DIY skincare seems safe. After all, your grandmother has been relying on her aloe vera & cucumber juice face mask recipe for years. While it might be an attractive prospect, and may even feel like the cleaner way, it leaves too much to chance. If you’re mixing things up in your kitchen in lieu of well-formulated skincare products, you could be playing too fast and loose. Here’s why.
It can mess with your skin’s pH and moisture barrier
A coconut oil and sugar scrub sounds like the perfect idea, but may take a no-prisoners-approach to your skin instead. Sugar particles are all different sizes and shapes, and the sharp edges may cause micro-tears in your skin. This may actually cause you to over-exfoliate without realising. Coconut oil is highly comedogenic. So while you might be using it to brighten skin, it can clog pores and cause breakouts in the long run.
Lemon—another DIY favourite—could damage your skincare barrier instead of fortify it. The skin has an acid mantle, which helps seal in moisture and keep skin firm. When it deviates too much from its median, the skin can get irritated. This can lead to acne, irritation and pigmentation. Lemon juice is super acidic (with a pH of 2) and can alter the skin’s pH, which is usually between 4-5, which–when messed with—can take a lot of TLC to nurse back to health.
You can’t trust the source of your ingredients
It is nothing like pharmaceutical-grade Vitamin C, which is formulated at a pH that won’t damage the skin. The neutralised ingredient is measured out and stabilized (and tested and then re-tested in a lab). This ensures that it won’t burn, sting or irritate the skin. It is also tested to make sure it works efficiently in that concentration or housed in that packaging. This is unlike a lemon from the grocery store, that could be non-organic or lying on the shelf for days. Even if the skincare product is using filtered lemon juice extracts, it’s in a well-researched high concentration to ensure efficacy.
Fruits and vegetables aren’t shelf-stable
Preservatives and parabens may sometimes get a bad rap. But they actually play a super important role in making topical skincare products safe, stable and actually effective. If you’re using eggs to mattify your skin or yoghurt to moisturise, you could inadvertently be introducing bacteria to your skin instead. They’re more perishable than you might assume.
Natural doesn’t have to mean better, safer or more effective
Consumers can sometimes fear the unknown, like ingredients they can’t read or pronounce (like niacinamide, glycosphingolipids and polyhydroxy acids). But these are high quality ingredients that do exactly what they promise to do, thanks to research and lab-testing. Plus, it is important to note that even in “natural” skincare products, ingredients have to be processed to make them safe enough to be bottled. Synthetic ingredients, on the other hand, are made in the lab to mimic these natural ingredients. These have any possible allergens or additions filtered out. Poison ivy is natural, but you don’t want it anywhere near your face, ever.
It is important to note that skincare is not a one-size-fits-all, and the aloe vera + apple cider vinegar + mashed banana + peach mask that works to brighten your friends skin? It might totally backfire on you (or it might just not work at all!). Instead, do your homework. Read ingredient lists, research labels and hold skincare brands that have done the research, work and due diligence accountable. This is how you can get what you really signed up for. If you need help creating a skincare routine from scratch, read our guide
Have more questions about ingredients that work together and don’t? You can reach out to us through WhatsApp!
These are the skincare ingredients you shouldn’t layer with each other, EVER
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Passionate about beauty, Srishty’s body of work spans 5 years. She loves novel makeup techniques, latest skincare trends, and pop culture references. When she isn’t working, you will find her reading, Netflix-ing or trying to bake something in her kitchen.
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