Skin Care Tips: How to Choose the Best Sunscreen According to Indian Skin Tone

Sunscreen Guide: As summers arrive, the need to take care of your skin increases as heat, dust, and sunlight may damage your skin, making it dull and rough. Several products have been used to cleanse and hydrate your skin in summers, and sunscreen is one of the most effective summer skincare product that is recommended by dermatologists as well. However, choosing the right sunscreen for Indian skin tones is critical, especially during the hot summer months when the sun’s rays are at their most intense. 

Indian Skin Tone Variations

Indian skin tones range widely, from fair to deep, and each requires careful consideration when choosing sunscreen. Summer skin problems in India are exacerbated by the high temperatures and humidity. Sunburn and heat rash are both uncomfortable and potentially dangerous if not treated. By selecting the best sunscreen for your skin tone and adding it in your daily skincare routine, you can enjoy the summer without compromising your skin’s health and beauty. 

What is SPF?

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, assesses a sunscreen’s ability to shield your skin from UVB rays, the primary cause of sunburn. Usually, people get confused about the SPF ratings, what to choose and how the variants affect the skin. SPF ratings typically range from 15 to 50+, indicating how much longer you can be in the sun without burning than if you don't use sunscreen. For example, SPF 30 means you can stay in the sun for 30 times longer without burning than you would without protection.

Right SPF For Indian Skin Tone

Dermatologists typically recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Look for sunscreens labeled "broad-spectrum," which means they block both UVA and UVB rays. SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays, with higher SPFs providing slightly more protection. However, SPF values greater than 50 do not provide significantly increased protection and may mislead users into believing they can spend too much time in the sun without reapplying.

• Deep Skin Tones: Individuals with deeper skin tones are more resistant to sunburn, but they are still vulnerable to other types of sun damage. For these people, an SPF of 30 or higher is recommended. Look for sunscreens designed specifically for deep skin tones, as they may offer additional benefits such as reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation.

• Lighter Skin Tones: Lighter skin tones are more susceptible to sunburn and require greater protection. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF of 50 or higher. Consider using physical blockers such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which offer excellent protection without leaving a white cast.

Sunscreen Application and Reapplication

Regardless of skin tone or season, wearing sunscreen on a regular basis is important to maintain healthy skin. Apply sunscreen generously on your face, neck, and ears at least fifteen minutes before heading outside. Reapply after every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweat a lot.

Things to Remember While Buying Sunscreen

Choose broad-spectrum sunscreens, which protect against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate the skin's deeper layers and can cause long-term damage such as premature ageing and cancer. India has a wide variety of climates, and if you live in areas with high sun exposure, such as coastal or high-altitude areas, it is recommended that you use a higher SPF to provide more protection against the stronger rays found there.