Monsoon and sunscreen: 5 myths and facts

Despite monsoon’s arrival, experts emphasize year-round sunscreen use, debunking myths about cloud cover and skin tone. Waterproof makeup isn’t sufficient; Indian skin needs protection too. Reapplication every two hours is crucial. Sunscreen expires, requires proper quantity, and should be applied 15-30 minutes before sun exposure for optimal defense against UV rays.

After the relentless summer heat, the monsoon showers are showering more than just the smell of rain, a cool breeze, and an incomparable desire to snack on something fried. The overcast skies may have started looking pastel-pretty, but that does not mean you can safely hang up your sunscreens. If you believe that wearing sunscreen is seasonal, optional, and not required because no sun equals no damage, then here are five common sunscreen myths and some essential sunscreen facts that will help set the record straight. 5 myths about sunscreenMyth 1: You can do without sunscreen when it’s rainy or cloudyDespite layers of rain clouds, around 80% of UVA and UVB rays still manage to reach the Earth’s surface, these harmful rays make their way through windows and get reflected by water, requiring you to keep your sunscreen handy.

Myth 2: Waterproof makeup offers enough protectionRelying solely on makeup is likely to leave your skin more vulnerable than you would be comfortable with. Waterproof makeup is great, but the SPF in these products can’t compare to an SPF 50 sunscreen in providing serious and comprehensive sun protection.Myth 3: Indian skin doesn’t need sunscreenHaving more melanin does not make sunscreen redundant. Melanin, while valuable in providing natural UV protection, still falls short of the capabilities of a sunscreen. Sun damage, which manifests as redness and burns on lighter skin tones, causes long-term problems of hyperpigmentation and premature ageing in darker skin tones.Myth 4: Sunscreen can break you out in humid weatherHumid weather is inherently popular for causing an increase in acne breakouts and skin inflammation. Naturally, this calls for lightweight sunscreens with non-comedogenic formulas that can easily help you sidestep clogged pores and irritation. Today, you can also find sunscreens with anti-acne technology.Myth 5: One application lasts all dayNothing lasts forever, including your sunscreen protection. When there are a myriad of aggressors your sunscreen is providing defence against, stacking the odds is the way to go. Reapplying your sunscreen every two hours does not make you paranoid; it makes you a smart and forward-thinking strategist.With these myths busted, let’s quickly consume some essential facts about sunscreens.5 facts about sunscreenFact 1: Infants cannot use sunscreenIts is true that Doctors don’t recommend using sunscreens for infants under 6 months, instead they advocate limiting their sun exposure and using protective clothing.Fact 2: Sunscreen can expireSunscreens are usually good for three years after the date of manufacturing.

Fact 3: Higher protection depends on quantity as much as SPF number.Applying the right amount of sunscreen, about two finger lengths, may not be pleasurable, but it is essential in equipping you with robust protection. Don’t forget to cover all exposed areas and top up every 2 hours.Fact 4: SPF 30 is not twice as effective as SPF 15SPF 30 does blocks about 97% of UV rays while SPF 50 obstructs 98%. Although higher SPFs do provide slightly better protection, no product can offer 100% defence.Fact 5: Applying sunscreen while outside does not helpYour sunscreen requires time to work with your skin and form a layer that protects your skin against UV rays. Applying SPF 15-30 minutes before stepping out allows you to avoid the initial UV damage you would otherwise incur if you apply it outside.There you have it! Leaving out sunscreen is never a smart choice. Sun protection is now available in multiple textures, sizes, and formats, you can choose one that specifically meets your needs and keeps your family and yourself UV safe throughout the year.Inputs by Riya Sehgal, Senior Brand Manager – Heliocare, Skinspired