Importance of sunscreen in your skincare routine

Sunscreen is a crucial component of any skincare routine as it provides essential protection against the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays, significantly reducing the risk of sun damage and premature aging making it an important component for maintaining healthy and youthful skin. Regardless of age or skin type, applying sunscreen daily even on cloudy days is recommended for optimal protection. The Ozone layer plays a crucial role in protecting life on Earth from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. With the depletion of Ozone layer, the intensity of UV rays to earth tends to increase and the excessive exposure to UV light is harmful. This means that skin protection becomes even more important when the UV index is elevated, and the application of sunscreen becomes more crucial. The UV Index is a measurement that indicates the intensity of UV light at a specific time and location, typically ranging from 0 to 11+ essentially telling you how likely you are to get sunburn based on the current UV levels. The higher the UV index, the more intense the UV radiation and the greater the risk of skin damage. In India, the UV index is high than the western countries. Also, during the summer months or at higher altitudes, the UV index can often be much higher than during the winter months or at sea level. Every good sun protection routine begins with the right sunscreen as wearing sunscreen can help minimize short-term and long-term damage to the skin from the excessive UV exposure. However, sunscreen products are not all created equal. Here are a few key terms to look for when choosing a sunscreen for you and your family. 1. SPF 30 or higher- SPF corresponds to how much UV radiation is needed to produce a sunburn on protected skin, compared to unprotected skin. When used correctly, SPF 30 sunscreen has been shown to block 97% of the sun’s UVB rays 2. PA Rating (PA+++ or higher)- The PA rating is particularly important for Indian skin tones because it indicates the level of protection against UVA rays, which are primarily responsible for premature aging, tanning and causing uneven skin tone. 3. Broad spectrum- UVB rays are responsible for sunburns while UVA rays are responsible for aging and tan. Broad-spectrum sunscreen is important because it protects the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Inclusion of ingredients like antioxidant (Vitamin E) and vitamin B3 can synergies with the activity of sunscreen for the broad-spectrum protection against UV rays. 4. Sunscreen for your skin type- With an abundance of sunscreen options available, selecting the right one for your skin type is crucial for optimal protection and comfort. - Oily/Acne-Prone Skin type can look for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas with a matte finish, such as gel-based or water-based sunscreens. Ingredients like Niacinamide can help control excess oil. - Dry Skin type can opt for sunscreens with hydrating ingredients like glycerin or ceramides. Cream-based formulations work best to lock in moisture. - Combination Skin: A hybrid formula that balances hydration and oil control is ideal. Gelcream textures often work well for this skin type. Dr. Ramesh Surianarayanan, Head R&D at Foxtale