Sunscreen Myths and Facts

Nothing beats the importance of wearing SPF-based sunscreen for dry skin every day. This skincare product should be an indispensable part of any regimen for several reasons. It offers long-term protection from the sun's harmful UV rays and cuts down the risk of hyperpigmentation. But despite its varied uses, there are still myths that come in the way.

We all know how essential Vitamin D is for our health, but too much of it could even jeopardize your health. UV rays are carcinogens that can alter the skin's natural texture and color. The skin's outer layer contains cells containing a pigment called melanin. It protects the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays and the radiation they bring.

This is where opting for an SPF-based sun cream is so important. It cuts down the exposure and thus saves the skin cells from getting fried. But before you head to enjoy your beach vacation, let's take a look at a few common myths about using SPF.

Trivia

Myths About Wearing Sunscreen

Here are some common myths about sunscreen:

1. Certain skin colors don't need SPF protection

Ultraviolet rays can penetrate all skin types regardless of color. Excessive sun exposure can put anyone at risk of burns, regardless of their age, color, and gender. This point explains why defending one’s facial appearance with an SPF-based sun cream is so important.

It's a myth that Asians, African-Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans are immune to the adverse effects of sun radiation. Dark-colored skin does not get burnt as much as light-colored skin because of the abundant melanin that protects the skin from sun damage.

2. The SPF in skin or beauty care products is enough

Beauty or skincare ranges saturated with SPF are not enough. For one thing, they aren't broad-spectrum to defend both UVA and UVB rays. They may have an SPF of less than 30, which may not be enough to protect the skin effectively.

Even if you want to use only cosmetics that come with sunscreen blended in them, it might not work as effectively. Such products protect your face but leave the rest of your body exposed to sun damage. So, it's best to go for some additional protection.

3. The higher the SPF, the longer I can stay out in the sun

Even most skincare enthusiasts would buy the hoax that sunscreen with an SPF of 50 covers nearly twice the coverage of SPF 30. Skincare experts say that SPF 30 blocks 97% of ultraviolet rays but an SPF 50 sunscreen repels about 98% of them. It is a false sense of security that the higher the SPF, the longer you can stay out.

You would still need to reapply the best sunscreen cream every 2 hours and seek shed whenever possible, no matter what the SPF is. You may note that UVA has a longer wavelength, and it thus penetrates the skin layers and causes multiple issues. UVB damages the outermost or the epidermal layer of the skin. So, you may use a broad spectrum of SPF 30 to ensure protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

4. Windows can filter UV radiation

While UVB rays may not pass through the glasses, UVA rays can still enter your home. They can also penetrate the windows of buses, trains, and planes. So if you think your skin is not affected if you stay inside your home, you should think again. Similarly, if you are on a long car journey or your cabin has glass windows, you should still apply sun cream or lotion.

5. You don't need sunscreen if it's cloudy or cold

Clouds are water droplets that may not protect you from UV rays. Even if it is cloudy, UV rays still permeate. Even on cloudy or overcast days, up to 90% of the sun's ultraviolet can still reach the earth. You may even get affected near a water body because the UV rays can get reflected from all surfaces.

6. Wearing sunscreen blocks Vitamin D absorption

When the skin is left exposed to sunshine, vitamin D is synthesized by the body. UVB rays work with a protein in the skin and convert it to vitamin D3, an active form of vitamin D. It helps regulate calcium and phosphate levels in the body and strengthens bones.

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Even if you apply the best sunscreen lotion, only 2 to 3% of the sun's UV reaches your skin which is enough for your body to synthesize vitamin D. In the absence of a proper filter, you are more likely to get hurt by these radiations.

7. Waterproof sunscreen need not be reapplied after swimming or sweating

You may have noticed that some sunscreens for women are labeled as waterproof, but there is no such thing. Yes, it may be water resistant, meaning it won't wear off as quickly as regular sunscreen cream for the face, but it is still not waterproof.

To remain water-resistant or waterproof, a sun protectant cream should be able to protect for 40 minutes if you get in and out of water. Since this is not possible, you should use the best sunscreen for your face every hour to maximize its effectiveness.

Why should you use SPF?

Wearing sunscreen is one of the best and most direct ways to protect your skin's health at any age. Dermatologists advise people to opt for SPF-based products to block the sun’s harmful rays effectively.

Here are some advantages of SPF you would not want to miss out on:-

1. Opting for the best sunscreen for men and women can protect one’s skin against UVB rays and avert the risk of sunburns.
2. It shields your skin from UVA rays associated with long-term skin damage, such as wrinkles and fine lines.
3. Using sunscreen in your AM routine soothes inflammation, itchiness, and redness.
4. Studies have found that sunlight induces DNA damage and photoaging. So if you use SPF and wear clothes when you step out, you are doing good for your health.
5. Sunscreen cream defends your skin against and reduces your risk of developing skin cancer and some pre-cancers.

Mamaearth Range & Types Of Sunscreen

At Mamaearth, we abide by the Goodness of Nature to create the best skin and beauty products. We have a wide spectrum of skincare products made of safe, gentle, and toxin-free ingredients that work for all skin types and people of all ages.

Here are some of our best sunscreens in India:

• Mamaearth Ultra Light Indian Sunscreen with Carrot Seed, Turmeric, and SPF 50 PA+++

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Ultra-Light Indian Sun Cream with SPF 50 PA+++ protects and nourishes your skin in the sweltering Indian weather. Enriched with components like Carrot Seed Oil, Turmeric, and Orange Oil, this is one of the best sunscreens for oily skin, although it works for every skin type due to its lightweight formula.

Our Ultra-Light Indian sunblock cream offers up to 6 hours of UVA and UVB protection. It keeps the skin hydrated for a long time and does not leave residue on your skin. It lightens your tone and lets skin maintain its natural radiance without making it greasy or sticky. So, if you are looking to buy a toxin-free sunscreen for acne-prone skin, this is your pick.

• Mamaearth HydraGel Indian Sunscreen with Aloe Vera and Raspberry for Sun Protection

Recommended Product

This gel-based sunscreen for men and women is specifically formulated for Indian skin tones. Our SPF 50 Hydragel Indian Sunscreen is specifically formulated to protect sensitive skin from sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and other skin-damaging effects.

It is one of the best sunscreens for sensitive skin because it features Aloe Vera, Raspberry, and Glycerin. They soothe skin inflammation and hydrate the skin without leaving it dry. This non-sticky & lightweight cream also contains vitamin C that fights free radicals and slows down signs of premature aging.

• Mamaearth Skin Illuminate Sunscreen Gel SPF 50 with Vitamin C & Turmeric for UVA & B Protection

Recommended Product

Enriched with Turmeric, Glycerin, and Aloe Vera, this is one of the best sunscreens for combination skin types. It is a lightweight and non-sticky gel formula that penetrates the skin instantly without any greasiness.

This Made Safe Certified sunscreen gel prevents tanning and protects your skin against UV damage. It helps repair sun damage and revives your skin's natural glow. It also features Vitamin C that helps lock in essential moisture to keep the skin softer and suppler.

Summing up!

Regardless of the skin care product you pick, it is essential to understand your skin type and work on treatments accordingly. Sunscreens are made for different kinds and concerns so they don't rush your skin with itchiness or redness.

We are home to a broader range of sunscreen best suited for all skin types and provide the same grade of sun protection without leaving your skin greedy or dry. So let us know which is your favorite sunscreen amongst all. For hydrated skin, opt for this water based skin care products for your skin and see magic.

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