We spend a significant amount of time in the sun, whether we are going to school, college, the office, or even going to the local grocery store. So, whenever you return from the scorching sun, you might notice that your skin is inflamed, red, and spotty. Thus, you've probably heard us rave about the necessity of sunscreen. But what is the hype all about? It’s because no matter how many amazing products you use, if you don't protect your skin from the sun, fine lines, pigmentation, and saggy skin will appear sooner than you'd like.

So, to keep your skin safe this summer, we've compiled a list of our absolute favorite sunscreens for your face and body. These sunscreens are genuinely super soothing and light on the skin, so forget about the white cast, stickiness and heavy breakouts!

What to Keep in Mind While Buying SPF 50 Sunscreen for Face?

Here are some terms to look out for a while looking for the best sunscreen for your skin.

Broad-spectrum: It means that the sunscreen will protect you from both UVA and UVB radiation.

PA +++: It's an abbreviation for Protection Grade; this phrase denotes it protects against UVA radiation, and the plus sign shows the extent of UVA protection. The more positive signs there are, the more it will protect you.

Know Your Sunscreen’s Key Ingredients: You can check the ingredients list to make sure you have the necessary quality and coverage. Look for the term "wide spectrum" on the label to be sure you have UVA and UVB protection. Natural minerals like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are used in mineral (or physical) sunscreen to reflect the sun's rays away from your skin. The chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, use substances like bemotrizinol, avobenzone, and biscotizole, all of which offer broad-spectrum protection.

Additionally, you might want to stay away from substances like oxybenzone, which the Environmental Working Group (EWG) claims can lead to hormone disruption and allergic skin reactions. Additionally problematic is the preservative methylisothiazolinone.

Consider Your Skin Type: Many sunscreens are designed expressly to benefit those with sensitive, dry, or oily skin. Dr. Michael Shapiro, a board-certified dermatologist and specialist in skin cancer, told us that those with dry skin should seek for substances like glycerin, lanolin, oils, silicones (like dimethicone), and aloe, and stay away from sunscreen sprays and gels containing alcohol.

The finest lotions for oily skin are those that are thin or gel-like and contain substances like silica or isododecane.

Skin - friendly and fragrance-free products, as well as minerals sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are suitable choices for people with sensitive skin. Preservatives and alcohols should also be avoided.

Variations of Best sunscreen for face in India

So, now that we've learned a few things about these variables on popular sunscreen labels let me inform you that there are actually two sorts of sunscreens offered in today's aesthetic marketplaces. Physical sunscreens and chemical sunscreens are the two sorts. So, what exactly are these now?

Physical Sunscreen: Physical sunscreens, often known as 'Mineral sunscreens,' include inorganic physical UV filters that form a barrier on the skin, filtering out UV radiation before they penetrate. SUN BLOCKERS are another name for physical sunscreens. To prevent UV radiation, they use mineral-based substances like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Physical sunscreens function by remaining on top of the skin and deflecting and scattering harmful UV rays away from it.

Chemical Sunscreen: Chemical sunscreens are made composed of organic carbon-based active chemicals that absorb UV rays when they come into contact with them. Chemical sunscreens that penetrate deep into the epidermis and dermis layers of the skin are referred to as sun filters.

What is SPF 50?

Every sunscreen discussion starts with SPF and the idea that the higher the SPF, the better the sunscreen's capacity to protect against dangerous UV rays. However, this is not entirely correct. In fact, sunscreens with SPFs higher than 50 aren't even that effective and aren't worth the money.

SPF stands for sun protection factor, which refers to a sunscreen's capacity to absorb UVB radiation. SPF 50 protects against 98% of UVB rays. As a result, even on a daily basis, SPF 50 is a smart choice. But not more, because SPF greater than it can only shield an additional 2% of UVB radiation.

SPFs greater than 50 make little difference to those with lower SPFs. Even for those who are sensitive to sunlight, SPF 50 gives enough protection.

SPF 50 is sufficient for total sun protection because, in addition to UVB rays that cause sunburn and skin cancer, UVA rays are the primary cause of photoaging, such as wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and other sun damage.

How to use sunscreen for face

Applying sunscreen is simple; simply squeeze some cream into your hands and apply it to your face. It all comes down to habit; make applying SPF as natural as brushing your teeth, and your skin will thank you. If you're heading out, make sure to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas, such as your hands, neck, ears, and legs. But do you know how to apply sunscreen on your face?

When it comes to how to use sunscreen, there is a proper way to apply sunscreen to the face! Let’s see how.

• After you've finished your CTM skin care routine, apply sunscreen.
• Put dots on your face to spread the sunscreen and allow it to soak evenly instead of applying it directly to your face.
• Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before exposing your face and body to the sun.
• Apply a thick layer of sunscreen and take extra care around the eyes.
• When going outside, use sunscreen every two hours for maximum protection.
• Always use more sunscreen than you believe you need.
• Apply a water-resistant sunscreen that provides enough coverage.

Benefits of sunscreen

Protection from sunburn: Without protection, excessive sun exposure or UV radiation exposure (such as tanning beds) can result in a painful burn. Increased sunspots and skin damage may result from repeated sun exposure without protection. Sunburns often take several days or longer to cure, so it's vital to wear sunscreen at all times, even on colder, cloudy days.

Prevents premature aging: Sun exposure can promote premature skin ageing, including wrinkles, age spots, and elasticity loss. Sunscreen can assist in protecting the skin from UV rays.

Protection from other harmful UV rays: One of the most obvious and noticeable advantages of sunscreen is that it protects your skin from the sun's damaging UV rays. Sunscreen actually reduces UV radiation penetration into the skin and the onset of a number of skin problems. Even the most minor sunburns can be harmful; thus, it is critical to protect your skin.

Reduce the occurrence of sunspots: Sunspots (also known as "age spots" or "liver spots") are caused by UV rays from the sun and contribute to the appearance of ageing. Sunspots are flat regions of discoloured skin that can be varying hues of brown produced by hyperpigmentation of the skin.

Should you apply Sunscreen before or after moisturizer? 

It is best to use sunscreen after applying moisturiser. This is because moisturiser hydrates and prepares the skin for applying sunscreen. Sunscreen is more likely to be evenly dispersed and absorbed by the skin when applied after moisturiser, offering superior protection. Applying moisturiser first can also assist to seal in moisture and create an additional barrier against the sun's damaging effects.

Should you apply Moisturizer or sunscreen first, in a skincare routine?

Moisturizers should be applied before sunscreen in a skincare routine. This is due to the fact that moisturiser hydrates and prepares the skin for the application of sunscreen. When moisturiser is applied first, the skin absorbs the sunscreen more effectively, offering superior protection. Applying moisturiser first can also assist in sealing in moisture and create an additional barrier against the sun's damaging effects. This will also make your sunscreen more effective because it will not lie on top of dry skin.

Top SPF 50 sunscreen for oily skin

As summer is approaching, it's important to ensure we are taking the necessary steps to protect our skin from the sun's harmful rays. Get your hands on the best vitamin c sunscreen for summer from Organic Kitchen to keep your skin protected and calm.

Vitamin C Glow and Protect Sunscreen Creme SPF 50: This powerful sunscreen not only protects your skin from harmful UV rays with a broad-spectrum SPF 50, but it also infuses your skin with the antioxidant benefits of Vitamin C. The unique formula is specifically designed to enhance your natural glow, leaving your skin looking radiant and healthy. It is lightweight and non-greasy, making it easy to apply and perfect for daily use. The unique formula is also water-resistant, so you can enjoy your time outdoors without worrying about reapplying every hour.

Oat Milk UV Defense Sunscreen Gel SPF 50: This innovative sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection with a powerful SPF 50 while also nourishing your skin with the soothing benefits of oat milk. It absorbs quickly and feels refreshing on the skin, making it ideal for daily use and perfect for oily or acne-prone skin. This sunscreen is water-resistant, so you can enjoy your time outdoors without worrying about reapplying every hour. It's also free from parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances, making it safe for sensitive skin.

FAQ: Best Sunscreen for Face in India

Can I apply sunscreen without moisturizer?

Yes, you can apply sunscreen without moisturizer, but it's recommended to use a moisturizer first as it helps to hydrate and prepare the skin for the application of sunscreen.

When to apply sunscreen before or after moisturizer?

It is recommended to apply moisturizer before sunscreen in a skincare routine as it allows the skin to better absorb the sunscreen, providing better protection.

Can I skip moisturizer and use sunscreen?

It is not recommended to skip moisturizer and use sunscreen alone, as sunscreen alone can be drying to the skin and may not provide enough hydration. It's important to use a moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and healthy.

Can we apply sunscreen directly on face?

Yes, It's important to apply a generous amount of sunscreen and to make sure to cover all exposed areas of the skin, including the face, ears, and neck. It's also important to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.