Fighting Face Spots
Sunscreen 101
Sunscreens, sunblocks and suntan lotions
First of all, avoid anything called ‘suntan lotion’ – these have a poor SPF, and are oils which don’t shield you from the sun. Both sunscreens and sunblocks are good sun protectants, expect the latter to have a thicker and chalky consistency due to the use of titanium oxide or zinc oxide as the active ingredients.
How high should your SPF be?
SPF – Sun Protection Factor – measures how well a sunscreen protects you from UVB rays (the cause of sunburn). A minimum of SPF30 is best recommended as it blocks 97% of UV-B rays, though SPF50 is ideal as it blocks 98% of UVB rays. Any higher is said to be false advertising.
Look for broad spectrum
Most sunscreens only protect you from UVB rays – ideally, it should also shield you from UVA rays (these penetrate deep into skin and can cause premature aging).
What is PA?
Simply put, PA indicates the level of protection from UVA rays. This is based on the Persistent Pigmentation Darkening Test (PPD), which measures how much UVA skin can be exposed to before darkening. The more plus signs of your PA (this ranges from PA+ to PA+++), the more protection you’ll receive. It’s the reason why Korean sunscreens are regarded as more effective – they often come with these labels.
Application
Sunscreen formulas are no longer as chalky or greasy as they used to be, and they won’t leave a white residue either. The best ones in the market are lightweight, and easily blend into skin – apply at the last stage of your skincare routine and you’ll find that it could even work well as a primer. It’s recommended for you to reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors. Most people (myself included) don’t apply enough as two tablespoons per application is required for optimal protection.
Ready to shop sunscreens? Below are some picked for all skin types, including sensitive and oily.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF50++No surprises why Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Sunscreen has such a huge fanbase: it absorbs instantly, and leaves skin with an invisible finish. Best of all, it’s oil free, and leaves skin with a matte finish – perfect for everyday wear. Take your pick of sun protection from SPF 30 to 100.
Recommended skintype: Normal to oilyPrice: $22.30 for 88ml, Available from Guardian and Watsons stores islandwide
La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL SPF 50+ Tinted Fluid Extra LightA firm favourite amongst sunscreen devotees, this seriously lightweight sunscreen coats skin with SPF 50+ protection, thanks to its combination of Mexoplex (a blend of ingredients which gives increased UVA/UVB protection and does not cause skin irritation) and antioxidising thermal spring water. Fragrance and paraben free, it helps to prevent sun-induced pigment spots.
Recommended skintype: Sensitive to normalPrice: $46.90, Available from Guardian and Watsons stores islandwide
Biore UV Perfect Face Milk SPF50++/PA++++I can personally vouch for this – this Biore bestseller completely overturned all my misconceptions about sunscreens. It mattifies the oiliest of skin thanks to its sebum-absorbing powder, and applies lightweight despite its ominous creamy texture.
Recommended skintype: Combination to oilyPrice: $15.60 for 50ml, Available from Guardian and Watsons stores islandwide
Shiseido Ultimate Skin Protection Lotion Wetforce for Sensitive SkinAs a testament to how gentle the formula is, this sunscreen’s suitable for children. Free of chemical sunscreen agents, fragrance, alcohol and parabens, the low-irritant formula boasts WetForce technology – it’s said to work better upon contact with water or perspiration.
Recommended skintype: SensitivePrice: $41 for 100ml, Available at Shiseido boutiques and counters
Sunplay Skin Aqua UV Watery Gel SPF50+/PA+++Loved by local makeup artists, this sunscreen is made with Solarex-3 technology for long-lasting protection, and boasts a watery light texture for a matte finish. Other things we love? Its aloe extract and portulacca extract to soothe and protect skin, as well as Vitamin C to fight dark spots.
Recommended skintype: Normal to oily
Price: $18.90 for 80g, Available from Watsons and Guardian stores islandwide
Price: $18.90 for 80g, Available from Watsons and Guardian stores islandwide
Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish SPF50+/PA+++When it comes to sunscreens, K-beauty’s got the upper hand. More milky than creamy, Etude House’s rendition is sebum-free and non-sticky, and absorbs quickly into skin. It also works well for sensitive skin, as the formula’s made up of 100% mineral-based mild ingredients.
Recommended skintype: Sensitive and oilyPrice: $22 for 55ml