PICKING THE BEST SUNSCREEN TO PROTECT YOUR SKIN

Sunscreen is an essential product in summer because it protects your skin from damage from the harsh African sun.

Using sunscreen reduces the risk of cancer, wrinkles, and other skin-related diseases. Choosing a sunscreen that is right for your skin type can be difficult because there are many products in the market. Sunscreen should be applied 15 minutes before going outside and reapplied every two hours after that (more often if swimming or sweating).

Choosing the right type of sunscreen product for your skin can be difficult but these five tips can help you to keep in mind when choosing:

*Sun protection factor

A sun protection factor (SPF) indicates how long one can be in the sun without getting burned. The right sunscreen should have a sun protection factor of between 30 to 50. If you are only going to be in the sun for short periods, then an SPF less than 15 can work fine.

*The sunscreen’s content

The sunscreen should contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, natural minerals that protect the skin without causing any irritation. It is best to avoid chemical sunscreens if you have sensitive skin because they can cause severe reactions like redness and inflammation. Chemical sunscreens will usually be labelled as ‘chemical active ingredients’ or something similar.

*Consider broad-spectrum sunscreen

To ensure that you get the most out of your sunscreen, look for a product labelled ‘broad spectrum.’ This means it has all-around protection. Broadspectrum sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays cause redness and inflammation, while UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and cause damage over time.

It is essential to get a product that protects against both UVB and UVA rays.

*Consider the duration of exposure

If you are going to be in the water for prolonged periods, then waterproof sunscreen will be best. Waterproof sunscreens are the best choice for ocean activities, beach days, and other water sports.

*Know your skin type

Having sensitive skin means that your body reacts quickly to outside stimuli like the sun and other irritants. It might also mean you are more likely to develop skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema.

Choose sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide because they are natural minerals.

*Always check the label to see what type of skin is targeted.

Oil-free sunscreen is an excellent choice for oily skin because it will not clog pores or cause acne. If you have dry skin, look for chemical and mineral-based sunscreens. Use hydrating moisturisers as well. **Article Source: Nation Africa*