No summer starter kit is complete without an SPF 50 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 follows1. 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.Also Read: Sunscreen Guide 2026What are the benefits of sunscreen?There are several benefits of wearing sunscreen daily1. 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-upsWhy 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.Also Read: SPF in MakeupWhat 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 Matte Sunscreen for oily skin. 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.If you prefer a more breathable option, Foxtale's lightweight Aqua-Gel Sunscreen with SPF 50 is another great pick for oily skin. Gel-based formulas absorb quickly, feel weightless on the skin, and help control excess shine without clogging pores, making them perfect for humid days or layered skincare routines.2. Dry Skin: Struggle with dry, flaky skin? Make BFFs with this Dewy Sunscreen for dry skin with SPF 70. Its unique formula deeply nourishes and hydrates your skin. Moreover, the three types of Vitamins bolster overall skin health.3. Combination Skin: Combination skin typically features an oily T-zone and dry patches elsewhere, making it tricky to find the right sunscreen. To balance these concerns, try Foxtale’s Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50. This lightweight fluid formula offers broad-spectrum protection while Niacinamide helps regulate excess oil and refine the look of pores. The breathable tint seamlessly evens out your skin tone, blurring imperfections and doubling as a light makeup base. Plus, its non-greasy texture blends effortlessly without leaving a white cast, giving your skin a smooth, naturally radiant finish.Tips to choose the right sunscreenNow that you know why sunscreen is important, here are a few quick tips to help you pick the right one for your routine:1. Always Choose Broad Spectrum Protection:A broad-spectrum sunscreen protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. While UVB rays cause sunburn, UVA rays penetrate deeper and accelerate skin ageing.2. Pick SPF 50 Or Above:Dermatologists recommend choosing a sunscreen with at least SPF 50 for everyday protection. If you spend long hours outdoors, opting for SPF 50 or higher ensures stronger protection.3. Look For In-Vivo Tested Formulas:When a sunscreen is in-vivo tested, it means its SPF protection has been verified on real human skin under controlled conditions rather than just in a lab setting. This helps ensure that the SPF value mentioned on the label reflects how the sunscreen performs in real-life usage.4. Choose Sunscreens With New-Generation UV Filters:Modern sunscreens often use new-generation UV filters that are more photostable and provide stronger protection against a wider spectrum of UV rays. These advanced filters help maintain consistent protection under sun exposure while also ensuring lightweight, comfortable formulas that blend easily into the skin.5. Match It To Your Skin Type:Your sunscreen should complement your skin type. Matte or gel formulas work best for oily skin, hydrating sunscreens are ideal for dry skin, and lightweight fluid sunscreens are perfect for combination skin.6. Check The Texture:A sunscreen that feels comfortable on your skin is more likely to be used consistently. Lightweight, blendable formulas that leave no white cast are ideal for everyday use.Also Read: Common Myths About SunscreenConclusionSunscreen is the cornerstone of any effective skincare routine. From preventing sunburn and premature ageing to protecting your skin from pigmentation and environmental damage, applying SPF daily goes a long way in maintaining healthy skin. The key is choosing a formula that suits your skin type and lifestyle. With the right sunscreen in your routine, protecting your skin can be effortless, comfortable, and effective every single day.