The SPF In Your Make-Up Does Not Really Count and Other Facts You Need to Know About Sun Protection

You may have heard experts and beauty gurus say that sunscreen is the MVP of your beauty regime. 

Acne, premature wrinkles and even hyperpigmentation, sun damage is one of the biggest causes of common skincare issues. However, according to the latest research by Mintel, the majority of people prefer not to use sunscreen in their daily skincare.

The Mintel survey asked 3,000 Internet users aged 18 above for their suncare views and the results were shocking.

Almost 39 per cent Indians responded that they prefer not using suncare products especially during quarantine since they stay indoors! 

Umm...that could be a big mistake!

Here's a news flash for the 24 per cent of respondents who deemed suncare unnecessary. Experts have pointed out that glass windows and even your computer or mobile screens can emit rays that can harm your skin.

Dr Geetika Mittal, dermatologist, Isaac Luxe says, "I think sunscreen is the biggest, most vital part of your anti-ageing routine. Not only when outside, even indoors, let’s talk about the blue light. According to studies, the blue light emitted from our screens is number 3 when it comes to skin damage, right after UVA and UVB sun rays (280 nm to 400 nm) with blue light wavelength 380 nm to 500 nm. To minimize this, we should reset our brightness settings and limit screen time altogether. Apart from that, wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen even indoors can reduce photoaging to a certain extent.".  

When it comes to makeup over a third (34 per cent) of the respondents believe that makeup products with SPF give them enough protection against the sun. The sun protection power of such products may not be enough.  According to skincancer.org, most cosmetic formulations lack enough protection against UVA rays, which are present year-round and can even travel through window glass.

“Lack of consumer knowledge surrounding skincare and the misconception that if they are not exposed to the sun they don't need to use suncare or skin protection products is the top reason why we see low usage in this category. With consumers staying indoors as a result of COVID-19 but spending more time online, suncare brands have the opportunity to take the role of an educator to broaden the communication on skin protection,” says Tanya Rajani, India Beauty and Personal Care Analyst, Mintel.