No matter what your skin type, using sunscreen is non-negotiable. Be it rain, shine or cloudy with a chance of thunderstorms applying, re-applying a relentless sunscreen that protects is like the unspoken code of conduct in the world of skincare.
There are so many layers (pun intended) to wearing sunscreen that suits not just your skin, but also your lifestyle and the amount of sunlight you are exposed to on a daily basis. Using sunscreen or sunblock is one thing, but using the right one is totally another! A lot of skincare folks focus more on the SPF content, which is the way it should be. But there are lots of other factors that one must research on before zoning on a certain sunscreen as THE one.
Firstly, what is sunscreen?
- Sunscreen or sunblock is an active ingredient substance that helps protect the skin from the damaging UV rays of the Sun.
- Sunscreens reflect, absorb, and scatter both ultraviolet A and B to provide protection against both types of radiation.
- Applying and reapplying sunscreen on a daily basis can offer protection from several skin concerns. It can prevent premature ageing, sun spots, tan and other side effects caused by daily/routine sun exposure.
What should your sunscreen do?
Consider SPF as the defining factor. Simply put, higher the amount of SPF, higher the level of protection. If your sunscreen reads as ‘broad spectrum’ it means that it protects from both UVA as well as UVB rays of the sun.
If you are someone who possesses dry skin, looking for a sunscreen that moisturizes as well as hydrates is of extreme importance. On the other hand if you have oily skin, it can get quite tricky because most sunscreens have a thick and heavy texture. It is imperative to pick a sunscreen that not only protects the skin barrier but is also lightweight and non-greasy.
It is pertinent to note that no matter what your age, everyone NEEDS to use sunscreen every single day with a minimum SPF value of 30!
Caffeine = Natural Sunscreen?
YES and rightly so!
In recent years, the true potential of caffeine as a skincare ingredient has taken the skincare industry by storm. Let’s take a look at the why(s):
1. Anti-oxidant
Caffeine, being a plant based ingredient, has the natural ability to neutralize free radicals which are responsible for causing signs of aging like wrinkles, fine lines, hyper pigmentation, etc. Using a caffeine infused sunscreen can help minimize such harmful effects to the skin’s DNA right in its tracks and effectively.
2. Light Damage Protection
Caffeine inherently has a naturally present sunscreen-like effect and has the ability to reduce UVB damage when it is applied right before you step out in the Sun ( for example, topically) Genius, isn’t it?
3. Elimination of Damaged Cells
Caffeine stimulates apoptosis. This is the method our body uses to get rid of unneeded or abnormal cells. A study found that increased apoptosis on the specifically sun damaged part is beneficial, because it gets rid of dangerous, mutagenic skin cells that have the potential to do more harm than good.
4. Skin’s Superfood
Caffeine has a plethora of benefits to its name when it comes to having it as the main ingredient in your skin and body care routines. Right from getting rid of tan to fighting free radicals, caffeine can truly do it all. It is a steady natural exfoliant that moisturizes, nourishes as well as smoothens skin if used properly.
Switching to a caffeine based sunscreen seems like a no-brainer now doesn’t it? Ask us everything you need to know about caffeinated sunscreens in the comments below!
