Let Me Tell You a Quick (Sunny) Story…
It was a typical hot summer day in Delhi, and I decided to leave the house for a while to get some groceries from a nearby grocery shop. The sun was so scorching already that I felt half-cooked in just 10 minutes. “Am I being ridiculous? What use is putting on the sunscreen, if it feels like frying poor paneer?” Just for that very day, I swore to myself that I would never use a sunblock of poor quality that would make my skin sticky.
That was the moment when my journey into the topic of the best sunscreen actually began.
I think it is worth mentioning that when I found this, my skin (and life) turned for the better.
What Does Sunscreen Really Do (And Why You Desperately Need It)?
Thanks to sunscreen, you will not only have the beach as your friend but also a daily shield against the sun’s UV radiation – those rays that are light but cause a disaster to your skin.
UV rays have two main types:
- UVA: These rays cause premature aging (yes, wrinkles and spots).
- UVB: They are the principal cause of sunburns and are directly linked to skin cancer.
A recent study by the Skin Cancer Foundation has revealed that daily usage of SPF 15 or higher reduces the chances of skin cancer by around 40-50%. Even in the case of a cloudy day or winter.
The Science of SPF (Sun Protection Factor)
Ever wondered what SPF 30 or SPF 50 actually means? Let me tell you about it. The wonder of SPF 30 is that it allows you to stay in the sun 30 times longer than you could without burning if you wore no sunscreen.
Well, that’s not all! SPF doesn’t, as was expected, give twice the amount of protection. SPF 30 lets 97% of UVB rays pass, while SPF 50 lets 98%. The difference is minor, but becomes of utmost importance if you go out for long or have sensitive skin.
Don’t forget to go for broad-spectrum sunscreens which shield you from both UVA and UVB rays every time!
Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens – Which One’s For You?
Several sunscreens are found in the market. They have been grouped into two:
- Chemical: It absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat. Lightweight, invisible finish—great for daily wear.
- Mineral (Physical): It reflects UV rays. It is made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide—ideal for sensitive skin.
The greatest number of dermatologists advise the usage of Mineral sunscreen for kids and sensitive-skinned adults.
Common Mistakes That Make Your Sunscreen Useless
- Underapplying: Apply a coin-sized amount only on the face. Never use sunblock or sunscreen that is expired.
- Not reapplying: Reapply every 2 hours, especially if you’re sweating or swimming. Are you sure you don’t sit down in the shadow with an umbrella while working outside?
- Skipping on cloudy days: UV rays penetrate clouds too!
What to Look for in the Best Sunscreen- SPF 30 or above, Broad-spectrum, Water-resistant, Non-comedogenic (pore-less) ,& should be appropriate for your skin type (gel-based if you have oily skin, cream-based for dry skin)
If the sunscreen you have is the right one, now you have found the best sunscreen for yourself!
Where to Find the Best Sunscreen Without Breaking the Bank?
Okay, here’s where I spill the (non-oily) tea.
Against using skin specialists approved sunscreens and having the advantage of a quick dispatch facility the same day from where do you get them, I have only trust in one place, (non-oily) tea—Aap Ka Bazar’s Sunscreen Collection.
Finally if you are a person who is constantly searching online “groceries online Delhi” or “fast grocery delivery apps” it is safe to assume that Aap Ka Bazar is your new friend. It’s your digital Indian bazaar near me, just a click away- no sunburn. Feeling lazy to cook after a sunny day out? Don’t miss our blog on quick rice meals.
