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SPF 50 Sunblocks Explained! Some interesting facts you might not know about

Sunscreen are a must have for summer. They prevent tanning, premature aging, and wrinkles. We have explored the benefits of SPF and other factors to consider before buying SPF.

Anamika Kumari Updated on Jun 20, 2024, 17:09 IST

Summer's here, and with it comes the promise of long days, barbecues, and plenty of time soaking up the sun. But Indian heatwaves and sun can be very harsh on the skin and prolonged exposure to these can lead to tanning and ageing skin. The sun packs a punch in the form of ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can damage your skin in the short term with sunburns and in the long term with premature aging and an increased risk of skin cancer. This is why, every dermat recommends the use of a good sunscreen to protect your skin from the heatwaves.

Benefits of sunscreen

Sunscreen not just help us in preventing sunburns. They also help fight aging skin and wrinkles. Here are some benefits:

Prevents aging skin: UV rays break down collagen. Collagen is the protein that keeps your skin plump and youthful. Sunscreen helps maintain skin elasticity and reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Reduces cancer risk: Consistent sunscreen use is a very effective way to lower your risk of developing skin cancer.
Tones uneven skin tone: Sun exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation, causing dark spots and uneven skin tone. Sunscreen helps prevent this and keeps your complexion looking even.

Other strategies to protect your skin

Seek shade when out:?If possible, take advantage of natural shade, especially during peak sun hours usually 10 am to 4 pm.
Cover up with physical barriers: Wear protective clothing, like full sleeves, pants, and wide-brimmed hats, to minimize exposed skin.
Accessories: Sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays are a must for protecting your eyes from sun damage.

What to look for in sunscreen

Broad-Spectrum Protection: Look for "broad-spectrum" sunscreens - which means the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
SPF: Sun Protection Factor or SPF indicates how well the sunscreen blocks UVB rays, the primary cause of sunburns. Dermatologists recommend an SPF of 30 or higher for daily use.
Water Resistance: If you'll be sweating or swimming, choose a water-resistant sunscreen. Reapply the cream from time to time.
Skin Type: Consider your skin type when choosing a sunscreen. Lotions are great for normal skin, oil-free formulas work well for oily skin, and mineral-based options are ideal for sensitive skin.

Best SPF 50 sunscreens

Sunscreens	SPF	Special Features	Active Ingredients	Product Benefits	Ratings
The Derma Co Hyaluronic Sunscreen Aqua	50 PA++++	Non Sticky, Gel like texture	Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E	Wrinkle Treatment, Pore Treatment, Fine Line Treatment, Hydrating, Bluelight Protection	4.3
Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen	50 PA++++	Dewy Finish	Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, Zinc Oxide	Ultra-Violet Protection, Hydrating, Pore Treatment, Brightening	4.3
Dot & Key Watermelon Hyaluronic Cooling Sunscreen	50 PA+++	Instant Cooling on skin, Lightweight and Non Greasy	Watermelon and UV Filters	Instantly cools & hydrates skin, Blocks UVA, UVB, Blue Light & IR rays	4.3
Minimalist Sunscreen	50 PA++++	Lightweight and infused with multivitamins	Titanium Dioxide, Vitamin A, B3, B5, E and F	Hydrating, Ultra Violate Protection, Soothing, Nourishing	4.1
Dr. Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Sunscreen	50 PA+++	Helps with micropigmentation, repairs skin barrier	Ceramide, Vitamin C, Hylaraunic Acid, Glycerin	Hydrating, Ultra Violate Protection, Soothing, Nourishing	4.2
Aqualogica Glow + Dewy Lightweight & Hydrating Sunscreen	50 PA++++	Radiant Looking Skin, Very Lightweight	papaya extract, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide	? Hydrating, Ultra-Violet Protection, Non-Sticky, Radiant, Glowing, Brightening??	4.2
Fixderma Shadow Sunscreen	30 PA+++	Quick Absorbant, Gel Based Texture, Water Resistant	Octinoxate, Benzophenone-4, Zinc Oxide, and Avobenzone	Hydrating, Ultra Violate Protection, Soothing	4.3
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen	50 PA++++	Sweatproof, Waterproof	Antioxidants, Helioplex XP Technology	Ultra-Violet Protection, Softening, Smoothening	4.3

The Derma Co Hyaluronic Sunscreen Aqua

499499

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Customer Review: Customers say its good for acne prone skin. They like that it absorbs easily.

Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen

449449

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Customer Review: Customers like the glowy effect it has on skin, they see a visible brightening on the face which is even better than most sunscreens that dry the skin.

Dot & Key Watermelon Hyaluronic Cooling Sunscreen

311445

31%off

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Customer Review: Customers like the cooling effect of the sunscreen in summers. They also mention it leaves no white cast and its non sticky.

Minimalist Sunscreen

399399

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Customer Review: The users like its hydrating effect, keeping the skin moisturized yet non greasy for longer hours.

Dr. Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Sunscreen

348499

31%off