How to choose the right sunscreen for your face?

The sun's ultraviolet rays can have a big impact on skin health as well as appearance. Although most people know that sunscreen is an effective tool to protect their skin, not everyone knows how to choose the right sunscreen, especially choosing a sunscreen for the face. In fact, this skin area is inherently more sensitive and needs more special care, so it is necessary to choose a different sunscreen than the one used for the body.

Choose a sunscreen with “broad spectrum” protection

Sunscreen with this label will provide effective protection against both UVA and UVB rays. All sunscreen products inherently protect against UVB rays, which are the main cause of sunburn and skin cancer. At the same time, UVA rays also contribute to skin cancer and premature aging. Only sunscreen products that pass certain testing steps can be labeled "broad spectrum". Products without broad-spectrum sun protection only provide protection against sunburn, but not against skin cancer or skin aging.

Make sure the sunscreen has SPF 30 or higher

SPF is the level of protection a sunscreen provides against UVB rays. Higher SPF means more protection. However, the higher the index, the smaller the difference. SPF 15 sunscreen filters about 93% of UVB rays, while SPF 30 sunscreen filters about 97% up to SPF 50 sunscreen about 98% and SPF 100 about 99%. Accordingly, the truth is that no sunscreen protects the skin completely.

Choose one with “waterproof” properties

This doesn't mean "waterproof" as no sunscreen is waterproof or "sweatproof". Meanwhile, this concept is understood that this sunscreen can be used when the user participates in water activities such as bathing, swimming or sweating. However, for best results, reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours, and even more often if participating in activities that come in contact with water. Also, sunscreen often wears off as you dry off, so it will need to be reapplied.

How to choose the right sunscreen for your face

If you have ever chosen to buy sunscreen, users sometimes face many difficulties when faced with a variety of products. Besides, although it's not really dangerous to apply a full-body sunscreen on the face, applying sunscreen specifically for this sensitive skin area will feel more comfortable; At the same time, the skin is also more optimally cared for.

Broad-spectrum

Since a sunscreen's SPF only describes the sun's ability to block harmful UVB rays while a high SPF sunscreen doesn't mean it will block the sun's UVA rays, it's a good idea to choose a sunscreen. Sunscreen must be marked as "broad spectrum" for full sun protection.

Especially when used on the sensitive skin on the face, sunscreen must work to block the rays that cause premature aging.

Does not cause allergies

Compared to the skin on the body, the facial skin is especially prone to acne, especially in people with oily acne prone skin. These breakouts can be caused by clogged pores on the face, which promotes the accumulation of bacteria that leads to the appearance of acne.

Sunscreens marked "non-comedogenic" have been formulated using special ingredients that won't clog pores.

Oil-free (for those with oily skin)

Similar to acne-causing products, oil-based sunscreens can clog pores and contribute to acne development, especially when mixed with skin's natural oils.

Also, many women use facial sunscreen as a base under their makeup. Accordingly, using an oil-based facial sunscreen along with makeup can make the skin feel heavy. Therefore, it is necessary to choose a sunscreen for oily skin if you have this skin condition.

Moisturizing (for those with dry skin)

Opting for a moisturizing sunscreen may suffice for daytime skin care as a "two-in-one" product for someone with dry skin.

No smell

Fragrance products often irritate sensitive facial skin. Many sunscreens contain fragrances that are not clearly stated on the packaging.

Therefore, it is important for users to test a sunscreen before purchasing as authorized by a retailer or to look for one that is specifically labeled "fragrance-free".