The Ultimate Sunscreen Guide: How to Choose the Right SPF - Spawake

The Ultimate Sunscreen Guide: How to Choose the Right SPF

The Ultimate Sunscreen Guide: How to Choose the Right SPF

Introduction 

In the ever-evolving world of skincare, one product stands as the frontline defender against the harsh effects of the sun, and that is the sunscreen. As we focus on our faces, where skin is delicate and often more exposed, understanding the intricacies of sunscreens becomes paramount. This comprehensive guide will educate you on different types of sunscreen, exploring its benefits, the nuances of choosing the right SPF and finding the right sunscreen for you.

What is SPF?

To understand SPF, you have to understand UVA and UVB rays and why they are crucial for UV protection. Let us briefly discuss the science behind it:

  1. UVA rays, often termed “ageing” rays, have the potential to prematurely age the skin by causing wrinkles and discolouration and can penetrate glass. 
  2. On the other hand, UVB rays are known as “burning” rays, which do not penetrate through glass.

Despite their different effects, both UVA and UVB rays can contribute to skin damage with overexposure.

What metric determines UVB protection?

Sun Protection Factor (SPF) serves as the benchmark in sun care, indicating the level of protection against UVB rays. Dermatologists recommend a minimum of SPF 30 for facial protection, and higher for extended sun exposure. The SPF scale is straightforward, the higher the number, the greater the protection.

  • SPF 15 filters out approximately 93% of UVB rays
  • SPF 30 filters about 97% of UVB rays
  • SPF 50 filters about 98% of UVB rays

What metric determines UVA protection?

UVA protection is determined by the PA rating, which stands for the Protection Grade of UVA, so PA+ ratings measure a product’s ability to block UVA rays.

Japan was the first country to start using the PA rating system. It was upgraded to PA ++++ in 2013, with non-Japanese brands following suit in recent years.

So it’s only fitting to go for a Japanese brand like Spawake, when it comes to choosing an appropriate sunscreen, even more so because the types of sunscreen in their range are specially formulated for Indian skin and the Indian climate.

Spawake’s UV Cut Silky Milk Sunscreen with SPF 50+/PA++++ is an excellent choice for intensive sun exposure. Its feather-light, silky texture ensures comfortable wear, even on the hottest of days.

If you plan on spending your days majorly indoors then you can opt for Spawake’s UV Protect  Aqua Gel Sunscreen with SPF 30/PA++. It is a lightweight sunscreen, apt for daily use with enough sun protection needed indoors.

However, choosing the right types of sunscreen also depends heavily on your skin type.

Identifying your skin type 

Understanding your skin type is crucial in selecting a sunscreen that caters to specific needs.

1) Oily or sensitive skin may benefit from sunscreens that have oil-free formulas
2) Dry skin requires hydrating and moisturising sunscreens that prevent moisture loss.

Both Spawake’s UV Protect Aqua Gel Sunscreen with SPF 30/PA++  and UV Cut Silky Milk Sunscreen, with SPF50++/PA++++ are suitable for all skin types. The gentle formulation provides effective protection without clogging pores, striking a perfect balance between nourishment and sun defence.

Broad spectrum protection 

The term “broad-spectrum” denotes a sunscreen’s ability to shield against UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate the skin deeply, causing premature ageing and increasing the risk of skin damage. Comprehensive protection involves guarding against both types of radiation.

Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for sunscreen:

  1. Look for sunscreens labelled as “broad-spectrum” to ensure complete coverage. Spawake’s UV Cut Silky Milk Sunscreen and the UV Protect Aqua Gel Sunscreen with SPF 30/PA++ are both broad-spectrum sunscreens, offering not only protection but also nourishment for the skin.
  2. Another thing to look out for is “water resistance”. You may not think it’s an important feature unless you’re making a splash in the pool, but it’s something that affects you in your daily lives as well.

Water Resistance 

For those who engage in water activities or anticipate heavy sweating, water-resistant sunscreens are a must. These formulations provide extended protection, even in the face of water exposure. But in your daily life, it also protects against sweat, ensuring that your skin stays protected. 

Keep these tips in mind:

  1. Apply water-resistant sunscreen before water activities and reapply after swimming or excessive sweating for continuous coverage.
  2. Spawake’s UV Cut Silky Milk Sunscreen, with its water-resistant formula, ensures reliable protection during aquatic adventures, making it an ideal choice for active individuals.

How to choose sunscreen as per your lifestyle

Tailoring your SPF to various outdoor activities ensures optimal protection. Higher SPF is recommended for prolonged outdoor exposure, while lower SPF suffices for everyday activities.

  1. Consider factors like altitude, location, and duration of sun exposure when choosing the right SPF, so that you can pick the best sunscreen for face.
  2. Spawake’s UV Cut Silky Milk Sunscreen with SPF 50+/PA++++ is perfect for extended outdoor activities, offering a high level of protection.
  3. For daily use, the UV Protect Aqua Gel Sunscreen with SPF 30/PA++ strikes a balance between protection and comfort, ideal for indoor activities.

Importance of daily sunscreen usage

Beyond protection, sunscreen plays a pivotal role in maintaining youthful skin. Embrace the concept: “If you don’t want to raisin as you age, put sunscreen today.”

There are multiple sunscreen benefits for face, other than UV protection;

  • Anti-ageing: Slows down wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
  • Evens skin tone: Minimizes dark spots, promoting an even skin tone.
  • Supports collagen production: Preserves skin elasticity and firmness.
  • Reduces irritation: Protects against sun-induced irritation, especially required for sensitive skin.
  • Maintains overall skin health: Maintains skin hydration and resilience.

Spawake’s sunscreens actively contribute to maintaining your overall skin health with a range of sea-based natural ingredients such as kelp extract and sea minerals, which help preserve skin elasticity, prevent premature wrinkles, and promote a youthful glow.

Conclusion 

Choosing the right SPF for your sunscreen is a decision that is crucial for the long-term health of your skin. From understanding SPF to identifying your skin type and selecting water-resistant formulas, Spawake’s UV Cut Silky Milk Sunscreen and UV Protect Aqua Gel Sunscreen cater to a spectrum of needs, making it the best sunscreen for face. Elevate your sun care routine with these exceptional products for protection and nourishment, every day

Frequently Asked Questions

1) How do I choose SPF for my sunscreen?

Consider your skin type, planned sun exposure, and activities. For daily use, SPF 30 is generally sufficient. For extended sun exposure, consider higher SPF.

2) Is SPF 30 or 50 better?

They both serve different purposes. Opt for a sunscreen like Spawake’s UV Cut Silky Milk Sunscreen with SPF 50+/PA++++ during extended sun exposure, and Spawake’s UV Protect Aqua Gel Sunscreen  with SPF 30/PA++ which is suitable for indoor or daily use. 

3) Is SPF 30 too strong?

SPF 30 is not too strong for most people. It provides effective protection while being suitable for daily use. blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays. Spawake’s UV Protect Aqua Gel Sunscreen with SPF 30/PA++ provides you from not only UVB rays but also UVA rays with its PA++ rating.

Shop Now at
Spawake India

Enriched with the goodness of deep-sea ingredients, Spawake helps you awaken your sea spa beauty at home. Originated in Japan, a country surrounded by the sea, Spawake longs to share this essence of the sea through its refreshing skincare products with you so that your skin can feel flawless all the time.