Sunscreen lotion or makeup—What should you apply first? When it comes to sun-protectant products, we often get confused about how to use them correctly. Like any other skincare product, there is always the right way to apply an SPF to get the maximum benefits. However, if you don’t use it on a clean facial canvas, it can break your entire skincare routine.
An SPF is important to use every day as it shields your skin from harsh UV rays emitted by the sun. Depletion of ozone has allowed ultraviolet rays to enter the Earth’s surface. These rays can cause various skin-related disorders, including discoloration or some forms of cancer. Prolonged exposure to sun rays can also trigger melanin and cause visible signs of premature ageing.
Skincare experts recommend using a broad-spectrum SPF in the AM routine to fend off impending signs of UV damage. This article will discuss various aspects of using an SPF product in your skincare routine, including the benefits and the right way to use it. We will then recommend a product from one of our favorite brands. Keep reading to learn the A to S of applying an SPF.
5 Benefits of using a sunscreen product
Before you choose the best sunscreen, understanding how beneficial it is for your skin is essential. The outermost skin layer has cells that produce a natural pigment called melanin. Melanin protects the skin from UV rays, but when these rays enter the skin, too much production of this pigment can cause dark patches all over the exposed skin.
Tanning is the result of sunlight exposure. But there is a catch. With improvements in your skin’s cell turnover, new cells move to the surface, and unhealthy ones are sloughed off. However, you will have to wait nearly 38 to 35 days before your skin produces new cells. So, using an SPF is the best way to protect your skin from sunburn.
Here are some benefits of using it in your skincare:-
- It shields your skin from UV rays—An SPF product shields your skin from the harsh effects of ultraviolet rays, which may cause premature skin ageing, sunburns, and even skin cancer.
- Prevents hyperpigmentation- Regular use of this skincare product helps prevent the formation of sunspots, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation marks caused by melanin synthesis.
- Prevents photodamage—Photodamage is a type of skin damage that causes your skin to look saggy and wrinkle-prone. An SPF can address various signs of premature skin ageing.
- Boosts the effectiveness of other skincare products- You may invest in a hefty number of skincare products, but if your skin is not protected from sun damage, no products can yield the desired results.
- Creates a barrier between skin and environmental stressors—An SPF helps create a protective barrier between your skin and environmental aggressors, ensuring the skin stays protected.
How do you use your SPF product correctly?
People with medium to dark skin tones already have enough melanin, so their skin burns more easily. If you have sun-sensitive skin, wearing an SPF product and some preventive measures, like wearing protective clothing and avoiding the sun during the afternoon, are crucial. For best results, you may start with an SPF 30 or more for broad-spectrum protection.
Additionally, a series of steps are involved in the application of an SPF product.
We recommend following the instructions on the label on the product to maximize its effectiveness. You may also follow this step-by-step guide to use this product in your skincare routine. Here you go:-
- Step 1: Always start on a clean facial canvas before applying any other product, including your SPF product. Use a gentle or mild cleanser for your skin type.
- Step 2: This step is optional. Once you have cleansed your skin, you may spritz a hydrating toner to keep it hydrated and unclog pores.
- Step 3: Follow up with a vitamin C serum to maximize the efficacy of your sun protectant products. Vitamin C helps fight free radical damage caused by sun rays.
- Step 4: Always apply a moisturizer before your SPF. Focus on moisturizing your skin with an ultra-hydrating moisturizer to nourish it thoroughly.
- Step 5: Now is the time to use your SPF. Use enough sunscreen lotion to cover your face, neck, ears, back, arms, legs, and feet.
- Step 6: Once the product settles, you may normally apply your foundation or base. It is best if your makeup also has SPF to ensure double protection.
- Step 7: If you are using spray sunscreen, you may also apply it after your makeup. It will give your makeup a dewy appearance. Apply generously all over your face or exposed skin.
- Step 8: Always apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before stepping outside in the sun.
Which is the best brand for your skincare?
When it comes to skincare, it’s crucial to choose a brand that takes care of your skin’s needs and commits to toxin-free formulations. One such brand that we talk about a lot is Mamaearth. It is a cruelty-free brand that abstains from using harsh chemicals or toxins that may harm your skin. It has a wide range of products in its vanity, including sunscreen lotion for all skin types. Let’s talk about its best-selling product:
Mamaearth Vitamin C Daily Glow Sunscreen
Mamaearth Vitamin C Daily Glow Sunscreen has SPF 50 and PA+++ to protect and brighten your skin. It features skin-brightening ingredients like Vitamin C and Turmeric to fight discoloration and dullness, giving you an even-toned complexion. It also has Zinc Oxide (plant-based) to ensure your skin remains sun-protected.
The ingredients’ anti-inflammatory properties prevent sun damage and heal existing tan lines. This toxin-free sunscreen lotion offers a dewy finish to your skin without any white cast. It is incredibly lightweight and blends effortlessly without any greasy residue. It is Asia’s first brand to offer MadeSafe Certified products, which means it contains no harsh chemicals or toxins and works well for all skin types.
Time for toxin-free hair care!
We invest a lot in skincare, but we should remember that our hair glory deserves the same treatment. Mamaearth offers a variety of hair care products if you are looking for toxin-free hair care essentials. We also love its hair care range for different concerns, including hair fall, premature greying, dullness, poor scalp health, and dry or frizzy ends.
For hair fall, which is a common issue in humid weather, we highly recommend using the Mamaearth Rosemary Hair Care Kit. It is a three-step hair care regime with the natural goodness of Rosemary and Methi danah. Both ingredients are known to improve hair health by stimulating new hair growth. These hair care products nourish your scalp and hair and prevent hair breakage.
Pro Tip: Remember to wear your SPF daily regardless of the weather conditions.
Conclusion
Dermatologists worldwide emphasize the power of sunscreen lotions in skincare. Not only do they protect your skin, but they also help improve its overall texture for a more refined look. Even if you are working at home or sitting under the roof near windows, wearing a sun-protectant lotion is a must.
The most important factor when it comes to sun protection is choosing the right product with an SPF of 30 or more. It is best if your skincare product also comes with an SPF to double the effects. For best results, focus on your skin’s sensitivity and history of sunburns to determine the right SPF product for you.
