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According to WHO "As ozone levels are depleted, the atmosphere loses more and more of its protective filter function and more solar UV radiation reaches the Earth's surface. It is estimated that a 10 per cent decrease in ozone levels will result in an additional 300,000 non-melanoma and 4,500 melanoma skin cancer cases. The global incidence of melanoma continues to increase – however, the main factors that predispose to the development of melanoma seem to be connected with recreational exposure to the sun and a history of sunburn."

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Applying sunscreen is one of the safest and easiest way to protect yourself from various skin diseases. Sunscreen label has improved by adding additional information on them.  Now sunscreen will tell you exactly what kind of protection it will offer you eg. sunburn, prevent you from skin cancer, anti-aging etc. 

Here we will share -

HOW TO CHOOSE SUNSCREEN
TYPES OF SUNSCREEN AND THEIR USE  
FORMULA BEHIND SPF 30 
SOME SUNSCREENS AVAILABLE IN INDIA

  
HOW TO CHOOSE SUNSCREEN

The most important thing or information you should look for is 'BROAD SPECTRUM' that offers both UVA & UVB rays protection to the skin and the second most important thing is SPF.  American Academy of dermatologists recommend at least 30 SPF or higher (SPF 30 blocks almost 97 percent of the sun rays) while FDA has approved to use sunscreen with at least 15 SPF . These two things in the sunscreen will prevent you from  skin cancer, premature skin aging, and sunburn.


Other very important information you should look for is 'WATER RESISTANT' along with the time information in it .  It tells you that sunscreen will offer you protection for that specified time after your skin gets wet or sweaty but you need you reapply it after that specified time on the label.  Note that sunscreen can never be waterproof or sweat proof.

Select a sunscreen for your lips also as skin cancer can develop on lips too.  Look for the lip balm that offers 'Broad Spectrum' with at least SPF30. 

Use sunscreen religiously.  Even in winters and cloudy days your skin is exposed to harmful UV rays from the Sun. So always apply sunscreen every time you go outside.  

Note -  

Use extra caution near water, sand and snow as they reflect harmful rays, which increases the chance of sunburn. 

FORMULA BEHIND SPF 30 -

No sunscreen can offer 100% protection from Sun.  SPF 30 can protect you from almost 97% of harmful sun rays, higher will offer slightly more protection.  So apply sunscreen with at least SPF30 to protect yourself from skin cancer, premature aging and sunburn.

TYPES OF SUNSCREEN AND THEIR USE 


Sunscreens are available in different forms in the market eg. Spray, Cream, Gels, Sticks, Ointments
etc.  Regardless of which sunscreen you choose, be sure to apply it generously to achieve the UV protection indicated on the product label.   Creams are generally good for face and dry skin while gel are good and easy to apply on hair.  Sticks are generally used for areas around the eyes and lips.  Sprays are preferred by parents as they are easy to apply on children but make sure that you spray the generous amount on the skin.  Always read the label of your sunscreen to know the quantity and frequency of application. 





 Note - 


Baby below 6 month should not come in direct contact with sun.  Keep them in shade and dress them in long sleeves and sunglasses.  Infant and children above 6 months can use sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as they do not penetrate in their thin skin and does not cause irritation. 





SOME SUNSCREENS AVAILABLE IN INDIA WITH BROAD SPECTRUM AND MORE THAN OR EQUAL TO 30 SPF -

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock - SPF 50 (88 ml)  - 499 INR. 

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock - SPF 50 (30 ml) - 175 INR

Lacto Calamine Sun Shield - Oily to Normal Skin - SPF 30 (50 ml) - 199 INR.

Soleo Organics Sunscreen - 1225 INR.

LOREAL Dermo Expertise UV Perfect 12 H Transparent Skin - 449 INR
 
Vichy - Capital Soleil SPF 50
   890 INR

 Ansolar Lotion SPF60   6000 INR

 


                                        AWARENESS IS THE KEY TO PREVENTION





aad.org - Sunscreen 101: Dermatologists answer burning questions about sunscreens
aad.org - How to select a sunscreen



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