5 Rules To Follow When Choosing A Sunscreen

How many of us are guilty of going to the pool or the beach without applying sunscreen? Definitely me. But, the funny thing is, sunscreen is supposed to be part of our routine. It should be applied every day before we step out into the harmful ultraviolet rays. There’s no way to avoid Mr. Golden Sun, so whether it’s sunny or cloudy, applying sunscreen will protect you from them. Every time your skin is exposed to the rays, you are damaging skin cells possibly leading to a skin cancer risk. It is so important!

Not everyone likes rules, but when choosing a sunscreen, here are some you would want to follow:

Rule #1 – Make sure it’s not expired!

Sometimes when we forget it’s there, we let it sit around forever. Make sure to double check the date of the bottles that have been sitting in your room for some time.

Rule #2 – Search for specific ingredients for UVA Protection.

Search for one of the following ingredients when hunting for adult sunscreens: benzophenones (oxybenzone), cinnamates (octylmethyl cinnamate and cinoxate), sulisobenzone, salicylates,titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, avobenzone (Parsol 1789) and ecamsule (Mexoryl SX).

You want to avoid the following ingredients in children’s sunscreen as they can irritate their skin: para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) and benzephenones, such as dioxybenzone, oxybenzone, or sulisobenzone.

Fragrances, preservatives, or alcohol are not recommended for problematic skin. Make sure to avoid these elements and instead, search for the following: titanium dioxide or zinc oxide in place of para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), dioxybenzone, oxybenzone, or sulisobenzone.

Rule #3 – Identify if the sunscreen is SPF 15 or Higher.

In addition to blocking UVA rays, protection from UVB rays is also essential. When choosing a sunscreen, identify whether it has SPF 15 or higher. SPF measures how effective the sunscreen will protect you from sunburn. The more sensitive you are to sunlight, the higher the SPF should be. SPF 30 or higher is recommended for a history of skin cancer or problematic skin conditions.

Rule #4 – Don’t forget to reapply.

If you are very physically active or plan to spend some leisure time at the beach or pool, we recommend choosing a sunscreen that is water and sweat resistant. Make sure to apply your sunscreen 40-80 minutes after exercising or removing yourself from the water.

Rule #5 – Buy your favorite brand!

Ask yourself these questions: How often am I going to use it? Does it make me look pale after applying it? Am I just buying it because my favorite blogger recommended it? Do not waste your money! Make sure the sunscreen you purchase is best for you and your skin. If you are not going to use it often, buy a smaller bottle. After the expiration date, it will no longer be effective.

Comment down below with your favorite brands!

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