We’ve emerged into a new beauty and grooming era where skincare is valued as a form of self-care and a means to have healthy skin. Therefore, many of us have come to realise the unparalleled importance of sunscreen for men. Many dermatologists, skincare and grooming experts believe that a simple skincare routine of cleanser, moisturiser, and sunscreen is enough to keep your skin protected and nourished.
Why Is Sunscreen So Important?
Sunscreen once upon a time was only viewed as a product to keep your skin protected from sun damage during peak summers, on a beach, or by the poolside. However, many skin experts have exaggerated, and rightfully so, that sunscreen for men is a skincare essential throughout the year, regardless of the season. The answer is simple, and that’s because we’re exposed to the harmful sun rays every day, whether it’s sunny, gloomy, or rainy. Moreover, it is also believed that sunscreen is considered to be one of the best anti-ageing skincare products. UVA and UVB can damage the skin’s natural barrier, resulting in rapid ageing owing to dead skin cells, tanning, fine lines and hyperpigmentation. So, along with ingredients like retinol and niacinamide, sunscreen for men is equally important to maintain the natural lustre of the skin.
Here are some important factors to Consider before buying sunscreen.
- The Meaning of SPF And PA(+)
If you read the writing and labels on sunscreen packaging, you will find the terms, SPF and PA. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and PA stands for Protection Grade. They both serve a different purpose. SPF protects against UVB rays which are responsible for those painful sunburns and an inflamed redness in fair complexions. PA protects you against UVA rays which show physical results over some time like hyperpigmentation, sun spots, melasma and premature ageing. The ‘+’ sign signifies the level of UVA protection the sunscreen provides. Here’s a simpler breakdown:
- SPF 15 & PA++ blocks around 93% of the sun’s rays
- SPF 30 & PA +++ blocks around 97% of the sun’s rays
- SPF 50 & PA +++/+ blocks around 98% of the sun’s rays
- SPF 100 & PA +++/+ blocks around 99% of the sun’s rays
If you’re still confused over the effects of UVA and UVB rays, don’t worry. Follow this code: UVA’ means ageing and UVB’ means burns.
- Learn The Difference Between Chemical, Physical, Hybrid Sunscreens
There are three types of sunscreen formulations but only two kinds of sunscreen filters. Chemical filters and physical filters are the two major categories of sunscreen filters. These filters come in separate formulations. Physical sunscreens (made with titanium dioxide and zinc dioxide) sit on top of the skin, to prevent sun rays from penetrating the skin. These also tend to leave a white cast. Chemical sunscreens (made with octocrylene and avobenzone) absorb the sun rays and turn them into heat which is released from the body. Chemical sunscreens absorb easily into the skin and don’t tend to leave a white cast. Hybrid sunscreens are made with a mix of both chemical and physical sunscreens. These simultaneously block and absorb sun rays for enhanced sun protection.
- Significance Of Broad Spectrum:
Most sunscreen for men labels have the term ‘broad spectrum’. This means that it contains both SPF and PA filters to give your skin protection from both UVA and UVB protection.
- Sunscreens Are Water-Resistant, Not Water-Proof
As per FDA guidelines, manufacturers aren’t allowed to label their sunscreens waterproof as water, sweat and natural oils cause sunscreen for men to break down over a period of time. That’s why when you’re buying sunscreens, make sure they claim to be water-resistant as sunscreens have the ability to stay water-resistant for 40-80 minutes, depending on the environmental conditions.
- Choose A Sunscreen Based On Your Skin Type
Get sunscreen for men based on your skin type will make sure the sunscreen works efficiently. Dry, dehydrated or sensitive skin types should ideally go for hydrating, soothing formulas. If you have oily, acne-prone skin, choose a mattifying, gel formula that easily absorbs into the skin without making your skin feel greasy.
Different Formulas and Formats of Sunscreen
The beauty and grooming market is rife with different types of sunscreen formulations That cater to different skin types, needs, and convenience. Lotion-based sunscreens are better for people with dry, sensitive skin as they soothe and moisturise. Water-based or gel-based are better for people with oily, acne-prone skin as they absorb quickly without making the skin feel greasy. Aside from this, people with oily skin can also use powder-based sunscreen for men. However, these are better used as touch-ups. Tinted sunscreens are ideal for those who prefer mineral sunscreens but struggle with a white cast that can make the medium to dark complexion ashy. They’re also great for those who look for a subtle makeup finish. Stick and spray sunscreens are made to be travel-friendly and suit all skin types. Additionally, they’re easy to re-apply throughout the day.
As you see, the solution to reaping the ultimate skincare goals is simple! We hope this article helps you finally convert to pro-sunscreen for men.