Rising Temperatures In India: Know How To Protect Your Skin Using Sunscreen

The Sun's heat and UV rays are strong in summer which could damage the skin cells and can lead to various skin issues, including skin rashes, sunburns, acne, dark spots, and wrinkles. 

(Representational Image)

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New Delhi: Climate change is a reality which is becoming an ever-growing concern worldwide. India is facing streaks of heat waves with ever-rising temperatures. Globally, scientific studies have proven that Sun has been showing increased solar activity since the 1970s. The past few decades have seen an increase in UV rays exposure due to the depletion of the ozone layer which protects us against ionizing UV radiation which is not only responsible for increased tanning but also for increased risk of skin cancers. 

Moreover, the heat of the sun and UV rays are strong in the summer season which could damage the skin cells. Excessive exposure to the sun can lead to various skin issues.

In this regard, Dr Gitika Biyani who is a Dermatology, Cosmetology & Tricology Specialist, at Dr. LH Hiranandani Hospital, Powai, Mumbai said, "Due to the soaring temperatures this summer, there is an increase in patients with skin diseases and sunburn. The scorching heat of the Sun is responsible for sunburn, heat rashes, dry skin, fungal infection, dehydration, tanning, prickly heat and allergies. Additionally, recurrent and severe sunburns are also a risk factor for nonmelanoma skin cancer."

Therefore, to protect our skin from the UV rays of the Sun, it is of utmost importance to not only wear sunscreen regularly but also apply it adequately, whenever you step out. In addition to that, sunscreen is not just for summer but it is to be worn all year long.

In this regard, Dr Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Dermatologist & Dermato-Surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics emphasised this and said, "Any skincare routine must include sunscreen as it helps to get that much-needed protection from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. It is a no-brainer that ultraviolet rays penetrate deeply into the skin and cause harm. UVB radiation is known to induce skin damage in skin cells under the surface, which you might not see until later when spots form. Apart from that, regular sunscreen application also helps to deal with eczema flare-ups, premature ageing, and skin cancer."

According to Dr Rahul Arora who is an Associate Consultant of Dermatology at Max Super Speciality Hospital Shalimar Bagh, "In addition to its protective properties, sunscreen also contributes to the improvement of skin health by safeguarding vital skin proteins like collagen, elastin, and keratin."

Things To Keep In Mind Before Buying A Bottle Of Sunscreen:

A higher temperature means more sweating both on the face and body. So, it is of great importance to choose the right sunscreen product. There are various options—a range of SPFs, spray-on, rub-on, active, sport, waterproof, mild, and all-natural, but you need to know which one will be best suited for you.

Dr Rahul Arora listed below a few things to keep in mind before purchasing a bottle of sunscreen.

1. Choose A Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: The first thing to understand is that the SPF value of sunscreen relates to its level of protection from UVB radiation. Nevertheless, there is presently no standardized rating system for UVA radiation, responsible for skin ageing and wrinkles. It is advisable to select a sunscreen that provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays, commonly referred to as broad-spectrum protection.

2. Consider Your Skin Type: If you have oily skin, it is recommended to choose a matte sunscreen or a spray sunscreen. Using matte sunscreen can prevent your skin from feeling greasy or oily and can even help balance the oiliness. Alternatively, you can opt for water-based sunscreens to avoid adding excess oil to your skin. On the other hand, if you have dry skin, it is recommended to choose a sunscreen that has a cream-based formulation. Individuals with dry skin should look for sunscreens that contain moisturizing ingredients such as ceramides, and glycerin.

3. Choose A Higher SPF: The higher the SPF, the greater protection it offers. Opt for a minimum of SPF 30, anything below that will not give a broad protection. You can even opt for a sunscreen that offers SPF 50 but any SPF greater than that is only going to be mildly more effective.

4. Apply Sunscreen Even Under Makeup: Cosmetic beauty products offer almost negligible sun protection. Hence, one must necessarily apply sunscreen under their makeup. Not applying sunscreen can lead to irreversible damage to your skin and that is the last thing that you’d want to happen to your skin. 

5. Apply Generously: Most people make the mistake of applying too little sunscreen. If you are not applying enough sunscreen on the exposed area of your skin, then your skin is bound to get damaged. Two finger breadth formula is the ideal way of applying the sunscreen on face. 

6. Opt For Water-Resistent Formula: It is important to select a sunscreen with a water-resistant formula, particularly during the summer season, as sweat and heat can diminish the effectiveness of your sunscreen. A water-resistant sunscreen will continue to provide protection even when exposed to water and sweat. Investing in this type of sunscreen ensures better coverage against the sun's UV rays. 

How Does Sunscreen Work?

Sunscreens are formulated using a combination of ingredients to prevent UV rays from harming your skin. These ingredients either absorb or reflect sunlight, providing protection to the underlying skin. 

Dr. Monica Bambroo, Head of Dermatology & Cosmetology at Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon spoke about the filters present in sunscreen. She said, "Sunscreen may include organic (chemical) or inorganic (physical) filters or a combination of both." She then explained in detail about both these filters.

Chemical Filters: Organic or chemical filters in sunscreen absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat energy. These filters contain compounds like avobenzone, octinoxate, or oxybenzone, among others. They work by undergoing a chemical reaction when exposed to UV rays, which helps to prevent the rays from penetrating the deeper layers of the skin.

Physical Filters: Inorganic or physical filters in sunscreen reflect or scatter UV radiation away from the skin. These filters typically contain minerals such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Physical filters form a protective layer on the skin's surface that acts as a barrier, reflecting the UV rays before they can cause damage.

Now to know which of the two is better, Dr Gitika Biyani said, "Both chemical and mineral sunscreens work similarly (by absorbing UV light and transforming that energy into negligible amounts of heat), but mineral sunscreens also reflect a small amount of UV light. For some, chemical sunscreens can sting. So, if you have sensitive skin or frequently react to products, mineral sunscreen might be a better choice."

How Much Sunscreen Do You Need?

To get the required protection from the UV rays of the Sun, you not only need to apply a generous amount of sunscreen but also apply it according to the requirements of specific body parts. 

In this regard, Dr Gitika Biyani said, "To protect your face, neck, arms and legs, you’ll need about 1 ounce of sunscreen. On the other hand, squeezed into your hand, 1 ounce of sunscreen is enough to completely cover your palm. A uniform film of sunscreen should be applied, and the application should be 15 minutes before sun exposure, while to protect your face and neck, you’ll need about a half teaspoon."

Other Protective Measures:

It is important to always use sunscreen during the summer season since UV radiation can cause sunburn and other negative consequences on people of all skin tones, but apart from that you need to take other precautionary measures as well.

In this regard, Dr. Monica Bambroo told that while sunscreen is an important part of sun protection, it should be used in conjunction with other measures, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing (e.g., hats, sunglasses, long sleeves), and avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours, typically between 10 am and 4 pm.