Skip to main content

Featured

10 SURE SHOT TIPS TO REMAIN YOUNG!

By nishu narula
Image source: pexels.com/edited Who doesn't want to remain fit and young? I guess nobody! So, is that possible ?....YES! Slowing down the process of aging is possible. Our bodies have an incredible ability to repair and heal themselves, but for this to happen, we need to provide them with the proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. However, don't expect miracles overnight. It's crucial to understand that there are no quick fixes, and achieving your ultimate goal requires patience and consistency. Therefore, here are 10 practical tips that you can follow to help you achieve your desired outcome. By following these tips, you can lead a healthier and happier life and slow down the aging process naturally. 1.) SOUND SLEEP Image source: pexels.com Getting a good night's sleep is essential for maintaining a healthy and happy lifestyle. Sleep plays a crucial role in our health, as it helps our bodies recover and repair from the daily wear and tear.  Studies have shown tha

EXPERT Tips For Choosing the PERFECT SUNSCREEN!

By nishu narula

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • How to choose the perfect sunscreen?
  • What are UVA and UVB rays?
  • Understanding SPF and PA+ Labels
  • What to choose: Water-resistant or Non-comedogenic?
  • Chemical or Herbal Sunscreen?
  • Apply or not apply sunscreen when indoors?
  • Useful tips!

Protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays is crucial for maintaining its health and preventing long-term damage. With countless brands, formulations, and varying levels of sun protection, finding the ideal sunscreen for your specific needs requires careful consideration. Whether you are lounging on a sunny beach or doing your daily routine, choosing the right sunscreen is essential for shielding your skin from harmful UV rays. 

Image source: pexels.com

Let's break it down step by step and find the perfect sunscreen that will keep your skin protected and healthy without the hassle.

HERE'S HOW TO CHOOSE A SUNSCREEN THAT WORKS BEST FOR YOU

Choosing a sunscreen that works best for you can be a bit challenging. To make things easier, here are some expert tips you should consider before buying sunscreen:

1) SKIN TYPE

To choose the right sunscreen, it is important to first identify your skin type - whether it is dry, oily, or sensitive. Sunscreens are available in various formulations such as creams, lotions, gels, sprays, and sticks.

Oily Skin: If you have oily skin you may prefer a lightweight gel or spray sunscreen.
 
Dry Skin: If you have dry skin, a cream or lotion sunscreen that provides hydration may be more suitable.

Sensitive Skin: If you have sensitive skin, it is important to opt for a fragrance-free and chemical-free to avoid any potential irritation.


2) SUN PROTECTION FACTOR (SPF)

The next thing to consider when selecting sunscreen is the Sun Protection Factor (SPF). The SPF determines how well the sunscreen protects against UVB radiation, which causes sunburns. A higher SPF means better protection. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. If you have fair skin, choose a higher SPF. However, it's essential to note that SPF only measures protection against UVB rays, not UVA rays.

What are UVA and UVB rays?

UVA and UVB rays are two types of ultraviolet radiation emitted by the sun. 

UVA (Ultraviolet A) Rays
  • have longer wavelengths and can penetrate deep into the skin.
  • present throughout the year, even on cloudy days.
  • associated with skin aging, wrinkles, development of age spots, etc.
  • can penetrate glass, so you may still be exposed while indoors or in a car.
 
UVB (Ultraviolet B) Rays
  • have shorter wavelengths and primarily affect the outermost layers of the skin.
  • strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., especially during summer months. 
  • primary cause of sunburns and plays a significant role in the development of skin cancer.
  • partially blocked by glass, so you are less exposed when indoors or in a car. 

Both UVA and UVV rays can be harmful to the skin. So it is important to protect yourself from both types of radiation by using sunscreen and taking other sun safety measures.


3) BROAD-SPECTRUM PROTECTION

To ensure complete protection from harmful sun rays, it's important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that guards against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are responsible for premature aging, wrinkles, and other skin damage, whereas UVB rays cause sunburns and contribute to the development of skin cancer. By opting for a broad-spectrum sunscreen, you can shield your skin from both types of rays.

What are SPF and PA+ labels?

SPF focuses on UVB protection

The level of protection against UVB rays is measured using the SPF (sun protection factor) rating, SPF indicates the effectiveness of a sunscreen in blocking UVB rays and a higher SPF value implies increased protection.

PA+ focuses on UVA protection

The level of protection against UVA rays is measured using the PA (protection grade of UVA) rating, which is denoted by plus signs, (for example PA+, PA++, PA+++, PA++++, etc.) and with a higher number of plus signs indicating higher UVA protection.


4) INGREDIENTS

Always check the ingredients of the sunscreen before buying it. If you have allergies or sensitive skin, look for a sunscreen that is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. Also, consider the active ingredients in the sunscreen. The most common active ingredients in sunscreens are chemical and mineral filters. Chemical filters like avobenzone etc. absorb UV rays and convert them into heat while mineral filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide create a physical barrier on the skin and reflect UV rays.


5) ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Some sunscreens are marketed with added features like antioxidants, vitamins, anti-aging properties, etc. While these may sound appealing, they are not essential in sunscreen. Remember the primary purpose of sunscreen is to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. 

Water-resistant

However, if you plan on being in the water, or if you sweat a lot, you can choose a water-resistant sunscreen that remains effective for a certain amount of time, typically 40 to 80 minutes according to the manufacturer's claims.

Non-comedogenic

If a sunscreen is labeled non-comedogenic, it means that the product has been formulated with ingredients that are less likely to clog pores and reduce the risk of causing breakouts, making it safe for acne-prone skin. However, it's important to note that even non-comedogenic products may still cause breakouts in some individuals. So, make sure you always do a patch test before starting out with any new product.


CHEMICAL Sunscreen or HERBAL Sunscreen...What to choose?

When it comes to choosing between chemical or herbal sunscreen, it's essential to consider your personal preferences, skin type, and level of sun exposure. Both chemical and herbal sunscreens have their advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to understand them before making a decision.

Chemical Sunscreen

Chemical sunscreens contain active ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, etc., that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. They are generally easy to apply, have a lightweight texture, and provide broad-spectrum protection. However, some people may be allergic or sensitive to the chemicals used in chemical sunscreens, and they may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin. 

Herbal Sunscreen

Herbal sunscreens, also known as mineral sunscreens, contain natural ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that create a physical barrier on the skin and reflect UV rays. They are generally less irritating to the skin, making them suitable for people with sensitive skin. However, mineral sunscreens can be thicker and more challenging to apply than chemical sunscreens. They also may leave a white cast on the skin, which can be less desirable for some people. 


Ultimately, the best sunscreen is the one that you will use consistently and that works well for your skin type and needs. If you have sensitive skin or are concerned about the chemicals in sunscreen, a herbal sunscreen may be a better choice. However, if you prefer a lightweight texture and broad-spectrum protection, a chemical sunscreen may be the right option for you. 

It's essential to remember that both chemical and herbal sunscreens provide protection against UV rays and that it's important to use sunscreen regularly to protect your skin from sun damage.


Is It Important To Apply Sunscreen Even When Indoors?

Applying sunscreen when indoors is generally not necessary for day-to-day activities, as the risk of direct sun exposure and immediate skin damage is significantly reduced. When you are inside your house, the walls, windows, and roof provide some level of protection against the sun's UV rays. 

However, there are certain scenarios where wearing sunscreen indoors may be recommended
  • If you spend long periods near windows that receive direct sunlight, you may still be exposed to UVA rays. UVA rays can penetrate glass, so applying sunscreen in such situations can provide an extra layer of protection.
  • If you live in regions with strong sunlight or at high altitudes, where UV radiation is more intense, there may be a higher level of UV exposure indoors. In such cases, wearing sunscreen indoors can help protect your skin from prolonged UV exposure.
  • Certain medical conditions, such as lupus or certain medications, can increase photosensitivity and make your skin more susceptible to UV damage. In such conditions, your healthcare provider may advise applying sunscreen even when indoors to ensure maximum protection.

While most individuals do not need to apply sunscreen indoors for typical daily activities, it's always best to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional if you have specific concerns about your skin, photosensitivity, or prolonged exposure to sunlight while inside your home.


USEFUL TIPS!

  • Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin at least 15-30 minutes before sun exposure.
  • Reapply the sunscreen every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.
  • It's always a good idea to read reviews from other users before purchasing sunscreen.
  • If you have sensitive skin or a history of skin cancer, it's best to consult with a dermatologist before choosing a sunscreen.
  • Needless to say, always check the expiration date before purchasing sunscreen or any product.
Stay Healthy, Stay Fit!





Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information.
Labels:

Popular posts from this blog

ACIDITY: FOODS that HELP| Home Remedies| DO'S and DON'TS

By nishu narula
Our stomach secretes acid which helps in breaking down the food we eat during the digestion process. When the stomach produces more acid than is needed for the digestion process, it results in the condition known as acidity. Image source: freepik.com In today's fast-paced world, our lives are becoming increasingly busy and demanding. We juggle a multitude of tasks and responsibilities, often with limited time to complete them. This busy lifestyle has had a significant impact on our overall well-being, particularly when it comes to our eating habits. We tend to grab quick and convenient meals on the go, which are often high in fat, sugar, and processed ingredients.  As a result, we are more prone to experiencing digestive issues such as acidity, which can cause discomfort, pain, and other health complications. We must prioritize our health and make conscious decisions about what we eat, to maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle. COMMON SYMPTOMS burning sensation or pain below the
Load more »

FOODS that should not be Consumed or Paired with YOGURT!

By nishu narula
Yogurt, also known as curd, is a widely consumed food item in many delicious dishes and desserts globally. However, did you know that certain foods are not recommended to be consumed or paired with yogurt? Image source: freepik.com Yogurt is a good source of probiotics and is valued for its cooling properties. According to Ayurveda, every food has a unique taste, energy, qualities, and post-digestive effect. Pairing two or more foods with different tastes, energy, qualities, and post-digestive effects can lead to disturbances in the digestive fire, resulting in poor digestion, formation of gas, and bloating. This can further lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body, inadequate nourishment, and numerous health issues. To maintain a healthy body through thoughtful eating, it is important to be aware of the details of which foods do not pair well with yogurt. We will explore the reasons behind this incompatibility and provide you with the knowledge you need to avoid possible health
Load more »

DO VEGETARIANS LACK PROTEIN IN THEIR DIET?

By nishu narula
Image source: pexels.com/edited Is that true...? Do vegetarians not get enough protein from their diet?... No! it is not at all true. There is a common misconception that a vegetarian meal does not provide enough protein. Vegetarian foods can be a great source of protein too. However, vegetarians must plan their diet well. They must eat their food in particular combinations to provide the body with nutritionally complete protein because no single grain or vegetable contains complete protein that is found in eggs, fish, or meat. This means that vegetarians must combine different types of food to obtain all the essential amino acids required for the body to function correctly. For instance, beans and rice eaten together provide complete protein, but neither food does this when eaten in isolation because the key amino acids that are missing from beans are found in rice. Similarly, lentils and chickpeas can be combined with roti or rice to create a complete protein. WHAT IS COM
Load more »

Change your Lifestyle, Reverse Your Hair Fall !

By nishu narula
Causes of Hair Loss and Lifestyle Modifications to Combat It! H airs, the Crowning Glory of every woman, and why not?... Hair is an important part of beauty and it can make a lot of difference to a person's appearance. When it comes to hair fall, not only women, it can give stressful days and nights to even men and children !  So it should be taken care of as much as any other body parts. Image source: pixabay.com Every day, some strands of hair fall off. It is the daily process of hair. It is the cycle of hair where new hair grows in place of old hair. It is quite normal. The number of hair strands normally lost in a day varies from person to person. But. If it is not replaced at the same rate at which it is lost, then one should take it seriously. NORMAL HAIR GROWTH CYCLE Let's understand the normal hair growth cycle in short. Hair grows in cycles. There are three phases of the hair growth cycle. Anagen -  long growing phase, 3-10 years. Catagen - short transitional phase,
Load more »

10 Natural Ways To Overcome Constipation!

By nishu narula
Image source: pexels.com/edited Constipation is a common digestive issue that can cause a lot of discomfort and distress. It occurs when bowel movements become infrequent, difficult, and incomplete, leading to dry, hard, and painful stools. This condition can also cause bloating, abdominal pain, and a general feeling of discomfort. If left untreated, constipation can lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body, which can cause additional health problems. These problems include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and fecal impaction, which can be quite painful and require medical intervention. Thankfully, various natural remedies can be used to treat constipation without relying on artificial laxatives or medications. These natural remedies are the most effective and safe ways to manage this condition, as they have no adverse side effects. By adopting these natural remedies and healthy bowel habits, one can achieve regular bowel movements and maintain a healthy digestive system.   Some Commo
Load more »