No skincare routine is complete without sunscreen. This formulation shields your skin against harmful UV rays to prevent tanning, burns, photoaging, pigmentation and more. If you want to add a potent sunscreen for your vanity, scroll ahead to learn the A to Z of SPF and make an informed choice.

What Are The Benefits Of Wearing Sunscreen?

Using sunscreen has a myriad of benefits for your skin including -

1. It Reduces The Risk Of Sunburns: Wearing SPF on the reg shields your skin against UVB rays that cause painful sunburns.

2. It Prevents Premature Ageing Signs: A potent sunscreen formula shields the skin against photoaging to prevent fine lines, wrinkles, crow’s feet and more.

3. It Ensures An Even Skin Tone: Continued exposure to UV rays increases melanin production/synthesis in the skin cells, resulting in dark spots and pigmentation. A mighty sunscreen for face keeps these problems at bay.

4. It Promotes Overall Healthy Skin: By shielding the skin against harmful UV rays, this vanity staple preserves your skin's health and vitality overtime.

5. It Reduces The Risk Of Flare-Ups: Certain underlying skin concerns flare-ups when exposed to UV rays. Enter sunscreen!

What Are The Different Types Of Sunscreen?

There are two main subcategories of sunscreen -

1. Chemical Sunscreens: Chemical sunscreens soak UV rays and release them in the form of heat via a chemical reaction. They are infused with active ingredients and are lightweight and non-greasy.

2. Physical (Mineral) Sunscreens: Infused with active compounds like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, these sunscreens reflect harmful rays of the sun. Experts suggest that physical sunscreens are safer for folks with sensitive skin.

What All Should You Check On Your Sunscreen Label?

We have established that sunscreen is non-negotiable in your routine. But before you pick a formula, what parameters should you check on the label. Scroll ahead to learn more -

SPF: SPF on your sunscreen label stands for Sun Protection Factor. It is the measure of protection offered against UVB rays. Case in point, SPF 30 blocks 97%, SPF 50 blocks 98% and SPF 70 blocks almost 99% of UVB radiation.

PA: PA stands for Protection Grade of UVA. It determines the level of defence granted against harmful UVA rays. To better understand, PA++ ensures mediocre, PA+++ good, and PA++++ exceptional levels of protection.

Broad Spectrum: In simple words, a broad-spectrum sunscreen shields the skin against both UVA and UVB rays. You can also check if the sunscreen for face in concern provides blue light protection.

Additional Checks -

Water Resistant: Fear that your sunscreen will run with sweat? Look for a water-resistant formula that won’t budge come rain or shine. If you’re big on outdoorsy activities, this skincare staple is a must-have.

Skin Type And Finish: To administer sun protection while upholding skin health, we recommend picking a sunscreen suited for your skin type. If you have oily skin, we recommend a mattifying formula. Alternatively, for dry skin, you can try a hydrating formula with Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerine, Betaine, etc.

What Are Some Sunscreens For Different Skin Types?

1. Dewy Sunscreen: If you have dry or sensitive skin, might we recommend opting for a dewy sunscreen? This lightweight formula contains hydrating ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerine, and more that improve your skin’s water-holding capacity. What we love is the gorgeous dewy finish it bestows upon the skin. You may also use a dewy sunscreen for dull or lacklustre skin.

2. Mattifying Sunscreen: Folks with oily or combination skin can try a mattifying formula. A matte-effect sunscreen cuts excess sebum and prevents clogged pores for a balanced microbiome. Plus, the matte effect it grants your skin is chef kisses.

What Is The Correct Way To Apply Sunscreen?

Picking the right formula is only half the battle won – when it comes to sunscreen, the technique is equally important. Here are some steps to reap the maximum benefits of your sunscreen formula.

1. Buffer time for absorption: Experts suggest that sunscreen takes about 20 minutes to sink into your skin and activate. Therefore, we recommend applying sunscreen roughly 20 to 25 minutes before stepping out.

2. Amount of sunscreen: The right amount of sunscreen for your face and neck is two fingers ’worth. Gently apply the formula till it melds!

3. Reapplication: No, the one-time application isn’t going to last you all day. Double down on efforts for sun protection by reapplying sunscreen every 2 hours.

All Sunscreen-Related Myths

Although sunscreen is a skincare staple, there are a lot of myths surrounding it. Here’s us squashing some of them -

Myth 1: You don’t need sunscreen on a rainy day

This is inarguably the biggest myth surrounding sunscreen. SPF isn’t just a part of your summer skin care products – it’s supposed to be used all year round. You see, harmful UV rays easily penetrate clouds to cause tanning, burns, photoaging, and pigmentation.

Myth 2: Sunscreen applied once lasts you all day long. It wears off easily, especially with outdoor activities like swimming, running, gymming, etc.

Myth 3: One doesn’t need sunscreen while they are indoors.

Your skin bears the brunt of harmful UV rays even when you are indoors. Therefore, we recommend adding a potent SPF formula to your morning skincare.

Myth 4: All sunscreens are the same.

Unlike the common misconception, all sunscreens are not created equal. Different sunscreens offer different levels of protection against harmful UV rays – depending on their SPF and PA measure.

Myth 5: Higher SPF means significantly higher protection

SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays and SPF 50 blocks about 98%. While there is a difference, it isn’t significant.

Myth 6: If you’re using SPF-infused makeup/moisturizer, you can skip sunscreen

You need sunscreen to double down on infallible sun protection. Skipping SPF is out of the question.

Myth 7: People with a deeper skin tone don’t need sunscreen.

False. Increased melanin due to a deeper skin tone doesn’t protect you from harmful UVA rays. So, remember to slather a generous amount of sunscreen to prevent premature ageing and wrinkles.

Myth 8: Sunscreen doesn’t expire

Absolutely not. Unlike the rest of your skincare staples, sunscreen too has a shelf life. Make sure to check the date of expiration before buying your favourite sunscreen.

The Best Sunscreen In India

Now that you are well-versed in the benefits of sunscreens, let’s pick a potent formula based on your skin type (or underlying concerns). Luckily, we needn’t look any further. Foxtale carries a range of high-performing, innovative and safe formulas that will elevate your skincare game exponentially.

1. Dewy Sunscreen For Dry Or Lacklustre Skin

The lightweight formula ensures 360-degree sun protection while preventing tanning. Niacinamide in the formula reduces dark spots and patches while enhancing your skin’s latent brightness. Moreover, D-Panthenol and Vitamin E ensure long-lasting moisturization to banish dry and flaky skin. The best part? The gorgeous dewy finish this sunscreen bestows upon the skin. Use it before your foundation or base tint to ace any glam look.

2. Mattifying Sunscreen For Oily Skin

If excessive greasiness is the bane of your existence, try the best sunscreen for face by Foxtale. The mattifying formula refines your complexion and grants it a beautiful matte finish. Niacinamide at the forefront of the formula regulates sebum production, prevents clogged pores, and prevents discolouration – doubling down on your skin’s oil-free radiance. Moreover, with SPF 70 PA++++ the formula ensures maximum sun protection.

3. Ultramatte Sunscreen For Combination Skin And Even Skin Tone

The formula blots excess sebum for a flawless matte finish. Available in 3 hues, it grants your skin a natural coverage – the perfect alternative to a BB cream or foundation. But that’s not all. This broad-spectrum sunscreen also doubles as a primer to blur pores and veil blemishes, creating a smooth canvas for the rest of your makeup. The SPF 50 Tinted Sunscreen’s water-resistant attribute makes it one of the best summer skin care products.

4. Glow Sunscreen For All Skin Types And Brightness

Formulated with all skin types in mind, this formula melds beautifully into the skin without any white cast. It contains New-Gen UV filters with SPF 50 and PA++++ to ensure maximum protection from the skin. Star ingredient Vitamin C travels deep into the skin to brighten glow and combat tan. Moreover, skincare workhorse Niacinamide doubles down on the glo while regulating sebum production for a balanced microbiome.

The Best Routine To Protect Your Skin Against The Sun

Before you whip out your favourite Foxtale sunscreen, it's important to prep your skin. Here’s how you can do so

1. Cleanse well: Cleansing removes dirt, grime, and other impurities that may clog your pores after applying sunscreen. Additionally, a potent cleanser helps maintain a balanced skin microbiome. If you have dry or sensitive skin, we recommend Foxtale’s Hydrating Face Wash. It contains Sodium Hyaluronate and Red Algae Extract that improve your skin’s water-holding capacity. Alternatively, folks with oily or combination skin can try our Acne Control Face Wash. It contains Salicylic Acid that cuts excess sebum, unclogs pores, and soothes inflammation.

How to use: Take a coin-sized amount of face wash and cleanse your face for 30 seconds. Once through, use cold water for a double cleanse.

2. Treat: Next, apply a result-oriented serum to address your skin concerns. You can try Niacinamide for oil control, Hyaluronic Acid for hydration, Vitamin C for brightening and more.

How to use: Take a few drops of your favourite Foxtale and dab it on your skin. Keep a light hand to avoid any stress or strain on the skin.

3. Moisturize: Once the serum sinks in, use a suitable moisturizer to seal the treatment and hydration. An efficient moisturizer also offsets inflammation, defers ageing signs and makes your skin soft and supple. If you have dry skin, we recommend Foxtale’s Hydrating Moisturizer. It contains Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Olive Oil, and Ceramides that keep skin hydration intact. Alternatively, folks with oily or combination skin can try Foxtale’s Oil Free Moisturizer. Niacinamide in the formulation cuts sebum and prevents clogged pores while administering a healthy microbiome.

How to use: Take a dollop of moisturizer and apply it on your skin.

4. Apply SPF: Next, apply a generous amount of sunscreen to your face and neck

How to use: Use 2 fingers’ worth of sunscreen for your face and a shot glass amount for the rest of your body.

5. Wear lip balm – bonus step: Sun protection is crucial for your pucker too. So, finish off your AM routine with Foxtale’s Brightening Lip Balm. Infused with SPF 30, the innovative formula averts UVA and UVB rays.

How to use: Squeeze out a pea-sized amount of the lip balm and glide it on your lips.

What Are Some Additional Ways To Prevent Sun Damage To Your Skin

The best skincare products for summer in India will only get you so far. Translation: apart from sunscreen here are some ways to prevent sun damage

1. Wear lightweight and full clothes

2. Keep UV protected sunglasses handy

3. Make BFFs with a wide-brimmed hat

4. Use scarves, caps, hats to double down on sun protection

What Happens When You Leave Sunscreen Overnight?

Sunscreen is formulated to combat harmful UV rays during the day. That’s right. A generous lather of the formula is non-negotiable in your morning routine. However, wearing sunscreen overnight has several repercussions for your skin like -

1. Clogged pores: Wearing sunscreen overnight clogs pores, leading to whiteheads, blackheads, and even episodes of acne.

2. Reduced efficacy of formulas: Your lipid (or skin) barrier is the most absorbent at night – making it the perfect time to administer active ingredients and result-oriented formulas to the skin. But a layer of sunscreen atop the dermis affects the absorbing power of your skin and reduces the efficacy of your serums or treatments.

3. Hampered repair processes: Skin has a circadian rhythm that ensures repair and rejuvenation activities at night. This involves shedding dead cells and cueing the regeneration of healthy new ones. Wearing sunscreen overnight hampers this renewal process, resulting in dull and beat-looking skin.

How To Effectively Remove Your Sunscreen

1. Wash well: A regular cleanser cannot remove traces of SPF lodged in the pores. This is why we recommend Foxtale’s Hydrating Face Wash. It contains gentle surfactants that melt makeup and SPF easily.

2. Treat: Dab your skin dry and slather a few drops of your serum or treatment. Observe caution around sensitive areas like the eyes and the mouth.

3. Moisturize and seal: Next, apply a generous layer of moisturizer to seal the treatment and hydration. If you want, follow up with a eye treatment for a brighter and tighter gaze.