We know you’ve been Googling all your sunscreen queries now that the hot summer is upon us. Dr Harshna Bijlani, dermatologist, founder, The Ageless Clinic has all the answers.
How often should I use sunscreen?
All day, every day. And it needs to be reapplied every two to three hours.
How much SPF is good?
Let’s bust a myth: people look at SPF and think a 100 would be three times more potent than a 30. Right? Wrong. In terms of the percentage protection, there is only a difference of 2 or 3 per cent. A minimum of 30 and a maximum of 50 SPF is enough.
How much sunscreen should I use?
A quarter of a teaspoon for your face, the same amount for your neck.
Does sunscreen prevent tanning?
No, it prevents burning, and is used for protection.
How should I pick the right sunscreen for my skin type?
Combination: Use a creamy sunscreen for dry areas and a gel-based or light one for oily areas. Or opt for a light liquid-based sunscreen. Look for: antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, grapeseed, glutathione for dry areas and silicone for oily areas.
Dry: Use a cream-based formula that spreads easily but isn’t too heavy, to avoid clogged pores and sunscreen-related acne. Look for moisturising agents like lanolin, oils, vitamin E and shea butter. Dry skin is more prone to wrinkling, so opt for a sunscreen with antioxidants, vitamin C and peptides.
Sensitive: Ensure your sunscreen contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are natural sun blockers, and always do a patch test first.
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