Go natural: Try these homemade sunscreens
Etti Bali
If there is one thing that all dermatologists and skincare experts will tell you as you step out in the sun, it is this: do not leave home without applying sunscreen. We are constantly exposing our skin to the sun and ultraviolet radiations, which can cause severe damage, which can at times be irreversible.
“There are certain rays that can cause damage to the epidermal layer. Either cover it up completely, so that the rays don’t strike you directly, or apply a superficial layer, ie,
sunscreen,” says beauty expert Aashmeen Munjal.
We might not realise the damage the sun’s rays are causing, because some of it might happen gradually. “With prolonged exposure to the sun, skin starts producing melanin at a faster rate. This may lead to breaking of the capillaries in the skin, causing wrinkles and even cancer,” warns Munjal.
While store-bought sunscreens are the most feasible bet, there are natural ways to make your own sunscreen, using easily available ingredients. “Many natural ingredients have properties that protect you from sun. Sandalwood is one of them. There are others like sesame seed oil, sunflower oil, coconut oil, saffron, jojoba oil, shea butter and vitamin E oil,” informs beauty expert Shahnaz Husain. You can also add zinc oxide to the mix while making one at home. But be careful of the amount you add. “More zinc oxide means a sunblock that has a chalky look and may show up on the skin,” adds Husain.
One thing you must keep in mind is the SPF count. “Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is very important. If you are in a field job, or are holidaying at a place with high sun exposure, then you need minimum SPF 45. The effect of sun’s rays is even more in areas where there’s water (coasts, swimming pools, waterfalls) because reflected rays are the most dangerous. Make sure you apply a waterproof sunscreen,” adds Munjal.
Sunscreens work for a maximum of three hours, so you need to re-apply. Apply it at least 20 minutes before stepping out.
You can also use it as the base before applying makeup. And remember, if you are healthy inside, you are healthy outside. Keeping yourself hydrated is also very important. Drink coconut water, lassi, buttermilk and eat foods like sprouts, watermelons and mangoes.
PRECAUTIONS
Make sure the sunscreen is absolutely compatible with your skin type. Avoid the area around eyes. Sunscreen gives you about 70% protection. So, the best thing to do is to cover your skin. Among gel, cream and water based sunscreens, you must make sure that the suncreen you choose suits your skin type.
APPLYING A SUNSCREEN HAVING AT LEAST SPF 30 IS A MUST. HOWEVER, THE EFFICACY OF YOUR REGULAR SUNSCREEN CAN BE DOUBLED UP BY APPLYING A LAYER OF A HOMEMADE SUNSCREEN BENEATH IT