How to Use Broad Spectrum Sunscreen for Maximum Protection
Sunscreen shouldn’t even be called skin care it's basic care Da! If you feel that it’s a glorified skincare gimmick then think twice because it's what trusted dermatologists and institutions like John Hopkins have to say.
It's the easiest and the best way to protect your skin. Let’s dive into what it protects against. Over the years science has made advancements to make sunscreens even more stronger than before with beautiful compositions and ingredients. Depending on what you need your sunscreen will guarantee to protect you from a bare minimum of UVA & UVB.
In addition, today's sunscreen comes loaded with protection from other harmful rays or environmental stressors with optimum hydration. if you are looking for an almost complete coverage then consider using a sunscreen that
1) Protects from Harmful rays - Like UVA, UVB, Bluelight & Infrared rays
2) Provides skin barrier enforcement - With ceramides etc
3) Provides Hydration - With Hyaluronic acid, marine plant extract, etc
4) Soothes the skin from any irritation - However
A product that provides all these benefits is the UNTAM3D broad-spectrum sunscreen
Why Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen Matters
Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects from:
1. Premature aging, wrinkles, and fine lines from UVA rays.
2. Sunburn and cancer that can be induced by UVB rays
3. Premature cell aging (photoaging) induced by blue light or infrared rays
Sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer can arise from poor sun protection. Broad-spectrum sunscreen keeps skin glowing.
Choosing the Right Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
Consider these factors when picking sunscreen:
1. PA+++ rating - PA stands for Protection Grade of UVA rays and here is the classification
-
PA+: Gives 50-75% protection against UVA rays ( equivalent to 2-4 UVA-PF)
-
PA++: Gives 75-88% protection against UVA rays ( equivalent to 4-8 UVA-PF)
-
PA+++: Gives 88-94% protection against UVA rays ( equivalent to 8-16 UVA-PF)
-
PA++++: Gives 94% or higher protection against UVA rays ( equivalent to 16 or more UVA-PF)
A minimum of PA+++ would be great, to begin with, you can also select a higher
1.SPF - SPF on the other hand protects from UVB rays. Here is what the number stands for
-
6 to 15: Low protection
-
15 to 25: Medium Protection
-
30 - 50: High protection
-
50+: Very High protection
The number indicates duration but not directly. SPF 15 doesn't mean 15 minutes it means the duration of protection is 15 times, the minutes a person takes to get sunburned without sunscreen. For example, if one takes 5 minutes to get sunburnt without sunscreen then SPF 15 will protect 75 mins ( 15*5). However, these values are not applicable in the ideal scenario as sweating, in sufficient application, swimming, and rubbing with a towel or clothes will decrease the protection duration.
In our case we recommend SPF50
2. Other ingredients :
-
Choose a sunscreen that can provide moisturising if you have dry skin but be careful to select a non-comedogenic sunscreen if there are acne problems.
-
As mentioned earlier protection from pollution is important hence select sunscreen that has antioxidants
Steps to Apply Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
Step 1: Cleanse your face: Clean your face for sunscreen absorption. Use a gentle cleaner.
Step 2: Moisturise: Apply a light moisturizer before sunscreen for dry skin. Allow complete absorption. However, steps 2 can be eliminated if you are using hydrating sunscreen like UNTAM3D broad-spectrum sunscreen
Step 3: Correct Amount: Squeeze sunscreen on index and middle fingers. The amount fits your face and neck.
Step 4: Apply Sunscreen Generously : Massage it across your face, neck, ears and wear an SPF lip balm
Step 5: Wait before sun exposure: Let sunscreen sit for 15-20 minutes before heading outside. This maximises absorption and efficacy.
Reapplication Tips for Maximum Protection
1. Frequency: Reapply every two hours or after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Misapplication of even the best sunscreen can damage skin. Do not commit these mistakes:
1. Avoiding Cloudy Days: UV rays penetrate clouds, so use sunscreen.
2. Using too Little: Apply sunscreen to cover all exposed skin.
3. Forgetting Key Areas: Take care of your ears, neck, and hands.
4. Assuming makeup with SPF Is Enough: You can't replace sunscreen with SPF cosmetics.
Additional Tips for Optimal Sun Protection
A thorough sun protection plan includes sunscreen. For extra safety:
1. Protect yourself with UPF clothing, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats.
2. Avoid direct sunlight during UV-rich hours.
3. Expired sunscreen may lose efficacy.
Conclusion
Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects skin from UV rays, if used appropriately. To enhance sun protection and maintain healthy, youthful skin, follow the above recommendations and avoid common mistakes. Use sunscreen daily—your skin will thank you!