𝐒𝐮𝐧𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧 & 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐧 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧

Sunscreen and Skin Health in Women: How Safe Is Sunscreen?

Dr Seema Oberoi Lall, Dermatologist and Dr Nupur Gupta, Gynecologist share their insights on the importance of sunscreen.

Skin cancer, allergies, photo sensitivities are associated with impact of strong sun rays and sunscreen is designed to offer protection, but myths deter you from using the same. We will clear all doubts regarding this topic.

Sun is important for life and sun rays constitute UV light – A, B, C. UV A is responsible for ageing skin. UV B causes skin cancers. Blue light from the screen also harms skin according to dermatologists.

Does skin type matter?

It is important to know that 6 skin types that respond differently to the impact of sun rays. Lighter the skin complexion, reduced is the protection from sun rays due to lack of melanin. It is good to know that Asian skin is wheatish/dusky in appearance and this actually protects us from sun burn because of the presence of melanin.

What are the keys for good skin health?

1. Avoidance of direct sun rays

2. Coverage of skin with clothing, hats, umbrella

3. Apply sunscreen which is an important barrier

What about Vitamin D requirements if we avoid the sun? Vitamin D production occurs in skin because of UV B, so expose your arm, neck, back to sun rays for 10-14 minutes only and avoid face to protect it from ageing. Balance is the key as over exposure is harmful.

How much and which sunscreen to apply? These are of 2 types: Application based sunscreens are chemical based that absorb UV rays. These are difficult to apply on sensitive skin. Physical sunscreen reflects the UV rays and do not have a chemical action and last longer on the body. Oral sunscreens are beta-carotene and vitamin C; eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables also have skin protecting benefits.

What should be your sunscreen SPF (Sun Protection Factor?

SPF tells you how much protection one receives from UV rays. For a daily routine in Indian cities SPF 30, PA rating of 3 is a good sunscreen choice. Indian skin type is not prone to skin cancer yet a medicated sunscreen which belongs to a reputed Pharmaceutical is suggested.

The appropriate manner to apply is to use at least ½ teaspoon of sunscreen at least 30 minutes before you step outdoors. Moreover, sunscreen is effective for 3-4 hours and needs to be reapplied.

Sunscreens are safe to use in pregnancy and physical sunscreen rather than chemical sunscreen are recommended.

For sunburn, the very first aid is ice pack and lacto calamine soothing lotion. It is important to note that home remedies for skin routine, make up or using any medicated skin ointment need to be supplemented with regular sunscreen application.

Sunscreen is a must to protect the skin from ageing, acts as a de-tan and eventually improves the facial skin’s look and feel. So, protect yourself from complexities of harmful sun rays by a very simple routine sunscreen.