How To Choose Sunscreen And Home Remedies To Remove Tan

Sunscreens For Every Skin Type:

We are all aware that sun exposure leads to suntan, sunburn and other effects like allergic rashes, visible aging signs or dark spots and patches. Even during winters, when we tend to bask in the sun, we should be wary of being exposed to these negative effects and take necessary precautions, like applying sunscreen. However, you should be aware that while sunscreens form a barrier between the skin and the sun’s rays, broad-spectrum sunscreen protects from both UVA and UVB rays of the sun. Now, here’s how to choose sunscreen.

Factors To Consider When Choosing A Sunscreen:

You should always choose a sunscreen to match your skin type. It is also important to consider the SPF before selecting a sunscreen. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is indicated by a number mentioned on the label of the product. It is a relative measure of the duration the sunscreen can protect you from the UV rays. The level of one’s skin sensitivity is an important factor to consider when choosing a sunscreen. Though SPF 20 to 25 is sufficient for most skin types, a higher SPF of 30 or 40 is required for skin types that are more sensitive and prone to allergic reactions, redness, dark spots, and patches.

Exposure to the sun causes loss of moisture from the skin leading to dryness, therefore most sunscreens have built-in moisturizers. However, if your skin is dehydrated you should apply the sunscreen, wait for a few minutes and then apply a moisturizer. A normal-to-oily skin may need an oil-free sunscreen gel to prevent the clogging of the pores, which can further lead to acne.

Sunscreens and sunblocks are available in the form of lotions and creams. But while a sunblock contains ingredients that act as a barrier between your skin and UV rays by reflecting them, a sunscreen absorbs the UV rays before they can damage your skin’s inner layer. Furthermore, a sunblock usually leaves a whitish residue on the skin, as you may have seen on sportsmen and athletes.

Things To Consider Before Applying Sunscreen:

Ideally, sunscreen should be applied about 20 minutes before sun exposure but here are a few other aspects you should consider:

  • If you happen to be in the sun for more than an hour, re-apply the sunscreen.
  • Apply sunscreen not only on your face but also on all other exposed areas of your body and keep in mind that the back of your neck and arms are extremely vulnerable to sun damage.
  • Apply sunscreen while swimming, holidaying by the sea or when visiting the hills. Also, remember, reflective surfaces like water and snow increase the effects of Ultra Violet rays.

Home Remedies To Remove Sun Tan Naturally:

  • To lighten your skin and get rid of a tan naturally, just add a pinch of turmeric (Haldi) to yogurt and wash it off after 20 to 30 minutes. However, for best results make sure you apply this mixture daily.
  • To combat sunburn, apply cold milk daily on your skin, using cotton wool — when used over a period of time, this remedy also helps to lighten your skin tone.
  • To prepare a tan removal mask, mix cucumber and papaya pulp with one teaspoon curd, one teaspoon honey, four teaspoons oatmeal and one teaspoon lemon juice. Twice a week, apply this mask on your face and neck and wash it off after thirty minutes to get lighter-colored skin

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