The use of sunscreen for the face is as important as the use of sunscreen on other body skin. Sunscreen used on the face serves to protect the facial skin from the dangers of the sun. However, the type of sunscreen and how to use it on the face is slightly different from the use of sunscreen on the skin of the body.
Sunscreen is a skin care product that serves to protect the skin from the harmful rays of the sun. There are sunscreens that are used for body skin. However, if used on the face, the ideal sunscreen used is a special sunscreen for facial skin.
Keep in mind that facial skin tends to be thinner and more sensitive than the skin on other parts of the body. This condition causes facial skin to be more susceptible to skin disorders due to the adverse effects of sunlight, such as redness, irritation and black spots or spots appear.
nowThis is the reason why the use of sunscreen for the face is no less important than sunscreen for the body.
Not only that, sunscreen products can also help reduce the risk of skin cancer and prevent wrinkles and premature skin aging. The active ingredients in sunscreen work by absorbing ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, so that radiation exposure does not reach the deeper layers of the skin.
Facial sunscreens are specially made with a lighter texture than body sunscreens. In addition, sunscreens for the face also generally do not contain oil or alcohol, so they tend not to clog facial pores and risk causing acne or skin irritation.
How to Use Sunscreen for the Right Face
Like sunscreen for the body, sunscreen for the face is also available in the form of creams, lotions, gels, and sprays. To use sunscreen on your face properly, try the following steps:
- For sunscreen in the form of lotion or liquid, shake the container before use so that the ingredients in it are fully mixed.
- Spray sunscreen or spray Use by first spraying onto hands, then wipe evenly onto facial skin. Avoid spraying sunscreen directly on the skin.
- Apply sunscreen on your face at least 30 minutes before going outside. This is done so that the active ingredients in sunscreen can be absorbed optimally and are more effective in protecting facial skin.
- In addition to the face, sunscreen also needs to be used on the ears and neck to reach all parts of the face and head that are exposed to the sun.
- In addition, also wear sunscreen on the lips using sunscreen in the form of lip balm.
Sunscreen cannot protect facial skin all day long. Therefore, it is recommended to reuse it every 1-2 hours. Sunscreen is also best used after excessive sweating of the skin, drying your face with a towel, or after swimming.
Things to Pay Attention to in Using Sunscreen for the Face
In addition to how to use it, there are several things to consider about using sunscreen for the face. So that sunscreen on the face can protect facial skin more effectively, do the following tips:
1. Choose a sunscreen that suits your skin type
- For facial skin that tends to dry, use sunscreen in the form of a cream with a moisturizing content. Avoid spray sunscreens because they usually contain alcohol, which can dry out your skin even more.
- For oily and acne-prone skin types, choose a sunscreen in the form of a gel that absorbs more quickly into the skin. Avoid sunscreen in the form of cream or oil-based because it can clog pores and make facial skin more oily.
- For sensitive facial skin, use sunscreen products that do not contain alcohol and fragrance.
2. Choose a sunscreen labeled “broad-spectrum”
Labels "broad spectrum” shows that the sunscreen can protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays. UVA and UVB rays are ultraviolet radiation from the sun that can damage the skin.
UVA rays can accelerate skin aging, and cause wrinkles and dark spots. Meanwhile, UVB rays can cause sunburn.
3. Pay attention Mark SPF
SPF (sun protection factor) is a measure that determines how long a sunscreen can protect the skin from UVB. The SPF value needs to be adjusted to the condition and color of the skin, but the most commonly used in Indonesia is SPF 30 or more.
Whatever form of sunscreen you use for your face, make sure you use it according to the directions for use on the packaging label.
4. Choose cosmetics that contain sunscreen
If you want to wear make up or cosmetics and use sunscreen, choose one that already contains sunscreen. Some cosmetic products, such as foundationSome have added sunscreen content, so they can provide a protective effect from the sun when used.
If cosmetic products are not enriched with sunscreen, you can apply sunscreen to your face first, then wait for at least 20 minutes before applying. make up.
In addition, do not forget to check the composition of the ingredients contained in the sunscreen, because it can be a consideration for you who may be allergic to these ingredients. If you are confused about choosing the right type of sunscreen for your face, you can consult a dermatologist.
The use of sunscreen for the face also needs to be accompanied by other efforts, such as using sunglasses that can block UV rays and using a wide-brimmed hat. With these efforts, the face and scalp will be more protected from the sun when doing outdoor activities.
If you are confused about the type of sunscreen that suits your skin condition, you should consult a doctor. Especially if you have sensitive skin, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain medical conditions.