Sun Care for Face: Protect your Skin in the Tropics
The unforgiving glare of the tropical sun can do serious damage to your skin. Find the best sun care for face to prevent early ageing and lower your risk for skin cancer.
Benefits of Sun Care for Face
Sunscreen is the best investment you can make for your skin. The sun’s UV rays causes 90% of early ageing. They damage your moisture barrier, release free radicals that destroy your skin cells, break down collagen and elastin, and cause hyperpigmentation.
UV rays can also penetrate windows and clouds, so you need to wear sunscreen even when you’re indoors or on overcast days. Be sure to apply sunscreen on your face, neck and behind the ears.
Sunscreen for face is dermatologically tested and won’t clog pores. Do not use body sunscreens unless indicated that it is for the face and the body.
Sunscreen Singapore: Physical vs Chemical
There are two kinds of sun care for face: physical sunscreens and chemical sunscreens.
Physical sunscreens contain ingredients that deflect UV rays. They form a “shield” that lowers your exposure to environmental skin hazards.
Chemical sunscreens contain organic compounds that interact with the UV rays and change it into heat. They neutralize the UV rays and minimize the damage they can do to your skin.
You can tell what kind of sunscreen you have by looking at the ingredients. Chemical sunscreens may contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate and avobenzone. Physical sunscreens contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.
Kinds of Sunscreen for Face Formulas
This is the most common kind of sun care for the face. They are the easiest to apply, but can feel thick or greasy. Look for light formulas that are absorbed quickly. Don’t be tempted to put just a little – you won’t get full sun protection if you apply less than the recommended amount.
Sprays. These convenient spray sunscreens are great for reapplication. They feel very light and fresh, and can be used over makeup and on the scalp. However, don’t rely on spray sunscreens alone, because it’s hard to gauge if you have evenly applied it, or if you have applied enough.
Sticks. Stick formulas are waxy and are more sweat-resistant. However, they hard to apply. These are best for applying sun protection on specific areas that are more prone to sunburn, such as the nose and cheeks.
Sunscreen powders. These tend to be the least effective form of sun protection, but are good for reapplying in the middle of the day.
Sweat- and Water-resistant Sunscreen
Great for sports or swimming! However, bear in mind that even the best water-resistant and sweat-resistant sun care products are only effective for four hours. It’s important to reapply if you will be outdoors for longer periods.
Look for the Best Sunscreen Singapore products!
Sun protection should be a part of your daily skincare routine. Find sunscreens with light formulas that you can comfortably wear all day; high-SPF sunscreens for outdoor activities and sports; waterproof and sweatproof sunscreens for swimming and outdoor exercise; and special sunscreen for kids and sensitive skin.