Moisturizers are vital in maintaining skin hydration, protecting the skin barrier, and enhancing overall skin health. With a wide variety of formulations available, selecting the right moisturizer tailored to your skin type and needs is essential for achieving optimal results. This guide provides key tips to help you choose the right moisturizer.

Considering our listed factors, you can get a moisturizer that meets your skin’s unique needs, ensuring optimal hydration and overall skin health. Whether dry, oily, combination, sensitive, or normal skin, the best moisturizer for your skin helps you achieve a radiant and balanced complexion.

Moisturizer Buying Guide: Understand Your Skin Type

• Dry Skin: If your skin feels tight and rough and may flake or show fine lines, opt for rich, emollient creams or lotions containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or shea butter. When choosing a moisturizer for dry skin, look for products that offer deep hydration and help repair the skin barrier.

• Oily Skin: If your skin appears shiny, with enlarged pores, and may be prone to acne, choose lightweight, non-comedogenic gels or lotions with ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide. These help balance oil production without clogging pores.

• Combination Skin: If your skin features dry and oily areas, typically with an oily T-zone and drier cheeks. Opt for balanced formulations that hydrate without over-moisturizing. Lightweight creams or gel-based products that offer hydration without excess oil are ideal.

• Sensitive Skin: If your skin is easily irritated, red, or prone to allergic reactions, select fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products with calming ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or ceramides. These help soothe and protect sensitive skin without irritating it.

• Normal Skin: If your skin is well-balanced, not too oily or dry, you can use various products, from light lotions to more hydrating creams. Look for balanced formulations that maintain hydration and support skin health.

Clinique’s Dramatically Different Hydrating Jelly is a refreshing, oil-free gel designed to deliver hydration and protect against environmental aggressors. Its unique formula features a blend of hyaluronic acid and activated aloe water, which combine to quench the skin’s thirst and strengthen its moisture barrier. This jelly helps to maintain a balanced complexion, leaving the skin feeling soft, supple, and plump. It is moisturizer for your skin, whether dry or oily, and provides lightweight hydration without leaving a greasy residue.

How does it work?
The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, leaving the skin fresh and smooth without any greasy residue. It is ideal for all skin types and delivers essential hydration, promoting a healthier, more radiant appearance.

2. Best for Very Dry Skin: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is the best moisturizer for dry skin. Its rich, non-greasy formula is ideal for dry to dehydrated skin. Infused with essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid, it deeply hydrates and restores the skin’s natural barrier. This cream helps lock in moisture, providing long-lasting relief and a smoother texture.

How does it work?
Its unique blend of ingredients, including patented MVE Delivery Technology, ensures optimal hydration and nourishment throughout the day. Suitable for sensitive skin, it feels soft, supple, and protected from dryness.

3. Best Moisturizer for All Skin Types: Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Day Cream

Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Day Cream is a good moisturizer for your skin. Its rejuvenating formula combats the signs of ageing while offering daily protection. Enriched with a blend of antioxidants, peptides, and SPF, this cream helps smooth fine lines, even skin tone, and shield against environmental damage.

How does it work?
Its advanced technology boosts skin firmness and hydration, delivering a youthful, radiant complexion. The lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly, providing a protective layer that keeps skin fresh and revitalised throughout the day.

4. Best Moisturizer for Hyper-Sensitive Skin: LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Intensive Moisturizer

LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Intensive Moisturizer is a hydrating powerhouse formulated with advanced blue hyaluronic acid to nourish and lock in moisture deeply. This rich yet lightweight cream replenishes skin, enhancing its resilience and plumpness with its unique blend of hydrating ingredients and revitalising minerals.

How does it work?
The moisturizer improves skin texture and elasticity, delivering intense daily hydration. Ideal for all skin types, it leaves the skin feeling soft, smooth, and visibly more radiant and revitalised.

5. Best for Oil Skin: Mamaearth Rice Oil-Free Face Moisturizer

Mamaearth Rice Oil-Free Face Moisturizer for oily skin is a lightweight, non-greasy formula that provides deep hydration without clogging pores. Infused with rice water and niacinamide, it helps brighten and even out skin tone while delivering essential moisture.

How does it work?
This moisturizer enhances skin elasticity and smoothness, leaving a fresh and radiant complexion. Perfect for oily and combination skin types, it balances hydration levels and controls excess oil, ensuring a soft, matte finish throughout the day.

6. Best for Normal Skin: Simple Water Boost Hydrating Gel Creme

Simple Water Boost Hydrating Gel Cream is the best moisturizer for your skin. Its refreshing, lightweight gel delivers intense hydration to the skin. Formulated with natural plant extracts and minerals, it instantly quenches and revitalises tired skin while maintaining a balanced moisture level.

How does it work?
The gel cream absorbs quickly, leaving the skin fresh and smooth without any greasy residue. It is ideal for sensitive skin, enhances hydration, and improves skin texture, providing a dewy, radiant complexion throughout the day.

FAQs
1. How to choose the best moisturizer?
Consider your skin type and concerns when choosing the best moisturizer. Opt for rich, hydrating formulas with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides for dry skin. For oily or combination skin, choose lightweight, non-comedogenic options. Always patch-test new products to ensure compatibility and avoid irritation.

2. What are the 4 types of moisturizers?
The four main types of moisturizers are:
1. Creams: Rich and hydrating, ideal for dry skin.
2. Lotions: Lighter than creams, suitable for normal to combination skin.
3. Gels: Oil-free and refreshing, best for oily or acne-prone skin.
4. Ointments: Thick and occlusive, perfect for extremely dry or sensitive skin.

3. What are the best ingredients to look for in moisturizers?
Look for moisturizers with hyaluronic acid for deep hydration, ceramides to restore the skin barrier, glycerin for moisture retention, and niacinamide to improve skin texture. Squalane and fatty acids also help nourish and smooth the skin, making them excellent choices for various skin types.

When selecting a lipstick shade for Indian skin tones, it’s crucial to consider your undertone—warm, cool, or neutral. Warm undertones pair beautifully with coral, peach, and warm reds, while cool undertones shine with berry, pink, and mauve shades. For neutral undertones, a broader range of lipstick colours works well, including classic reds and soft nude lipsticks. Additionally, the occasion and your style should influence your choice.

Whether you prefer bold, statement lips or subtle, everyday looks, this guide will provide tips on testing colors, understanding finishes, and maintaining your lipstick for a flawless look. With the proper knowledge, you can confidently choose the lipstick that enhances your beauty and boosts your confidence.

Also Read: 6 Best Luxury Lip Glosses for the Ultimate Shine

Understanding Indian Skin Tones

Indian skin tones are diverse and influenced by various factors such as geography, ethnicity, and cultural background. Generally, Indian skin tones can be categorised into three main categories:

1. Fair: This category includes light skin tones with a pink or peach undertone.
2. Medium: Medium skin tones range from light to olive with warm undertones, often featuring golden or neutral hues.
3. Deep: Deep skin tones encompass rich, dark skin with warm, cool, or neutral undertones.

Read More: 7 Best Lip Balms for Pigmented & Dark Lips

Recognising Undertones

To choose the right lip shades, it’s crucial to understand your skin’s undertone, which can be classified as warm, cool, or neutral:

1. Warm Undertones: Your skin has yellow, peach, or golden hues. If gold jewelry looks better on you than silver, you likely have warm undertones.
2. Cool Undertones: Your skin has pink, red, or blue hues. If silver jewelry suits you more, you likely have cool undertones.
3. Neutral Undertones: Although you may have a mix of warm and cool undertones, you likely have neutral undertones if you look good in gold and silver jewelry.

Read This: Tinted Lip Balms Under 500

Simple Ways to Determine Your Undertone

1. The Vein Test: Look at the veins on your wrist. If they appear green, you likely have warm undertones; if they appear blue, you have cool undertones. If they are mixed or hard to distinguish, you might have neutral undertones.
2. The White Paper Test: Hold white paper beside your face. If your skin looks more yellow or golden, you have warm undertones. If your skin appears more pink or rosy, you have cool undertones.
3. Jewelry Test: Consider which jewelry complements your skin better—gold (warm) or silver (cool).

Finding the Right Lipstick Shades

Once you understand your skin tone and undertone, you can explore the best lipstick shades complementing your complexion. Here are some recommendations based on different skin tones and undertones:

1. Lipstick Shades for Fair Skin Tones

• Warm Undertones: Opt for coral, peach, soft pinks, and warm red lipstick. These shades will enhance your natural glow without washing you out.
• Cool Undertones: Look for shades like baby pink, lavender, mauve, and berry tones. These colors will provide a lovely contrast to your skin.

Check this: 6 Best Lip Balms with SPF 30 to Protect Your Lips from Sun Damage

2. Lipstick Shades for Medium Skin Tones

• Warm Undertones: Embrace shades like warm reds, oranges, terracotta, and coral. These vibrant hues will highlight your skin's warmth.
• Cool Undertones: Choose from rich pinks, plum, and berry shades. These will add depth and drama to your lips.
• Neutral Undertones: You have the luxury of versatility! Nudes, soft pinks, and classic reds lipstick colours can work beautifully.

3. Lipstick Shades for Deep Skin Tones

• Warm Undertones: Rich, warm colors like brick red, burnt orange, and deep coral will beautifully complement your complexion.
• Cool Undertones: Lip shades like deep berry, violet, and wine will create a striking look against your skin.
• Neutral Undertones: To make a statement, choose bold shades like fuchsia, plum, and deep red.

Read This: Best Lip Balms to Revitalize Your Lips Glow

Different Lipstick Finishes

The finish of lipstick can significantly impact your overall look. Here are the main types of finishes to consider:

1. Matte: Matte lipsticks offer a long-lasting formula and a sophisticated look. However, they can dry, so ensure your lips are well-exfoliated and hydrated before application.
2. Satin: Satin lipsticks provide a semi-matte finish with a bit of shine, making them comfortable to wear. They offer good color payoff and hydration.
3. Glossy: Glossy lipsticks or lip glosses provide high shine and a plump appearance to your lips. They can be layered over other lipsticks for added dimension.
4. Sheer: Sheer lipsticks are lightweight and offer a hint of color, making them perfect for a natural, everyday look. They are great for layering and comfortable for all-day wear.

Tips for Choosing Lipstick Shades

1. Test Before You Buy: Always swatch lipsticks on your lips or the back of your hand to see how the color looks against your skin. Different lighting can affect how a shade appears.
2. Consider the Occasion: Consider where you'll wear the lipstick. Bright, bold lipstick colours might be perfect for festive occasions, while softer shades may be more suitable for everyday wear.
3. Match Your Makeup: Coordinate your lip shades with your eye makeup and outfit. A cohesive look will enhance your overall appearance.
4. Experiment with Shades: Don’t hesitate to try different shades and finishes. Sometimes, the perfect color can surprise you.
5. Stay Hydrated: Keep your lips moisturised. A well-hydrated canvas will ensure better lipstick application and longevity.

Top Lipstick Brands for Indian Skin Tones

Several brands cater specifically to the needs of Indian skin tones, offering a wide range of shades and finishes. Here are some noteworthy brands to consider:

1. MAC Cosmetics: Known for its extensive shade range and high-quality formulas, MAC offers lipsticks that suit various undertones and skin tones.
2. Maybelline: With affordable options and a diverse color selection, Maybelline lipsticks are popular among many for everyday wear.
3. L'Oreal Paris: L'Oreal's Color Riche line features an array of shades that cater to Indian skin tones, combining rich lipstick colour with moisturising properties.
4. Lakmé: As a homegrown brand, Lakmé understands Indian beauty needs and offers various lipsticks that complement local skin tones.
5. Huda Beauty: Known for its luxurious formulas, it offers a selection of vibrant shades that suit diverse skin tones.

Also This: 6 Best Lip Glosses for Indian Skin Tones

How to Care for Your Lips

Maintaining healthy lips is essential for a smooth lipstick application. Here are some tips to keep your lips in top condition:

1. Exfoliate Regularly: To remove dead skin cells, use a gentle lip scrub or a homemade sugar and honey mixture. For best results, exfoliate once a week.
2. Moisturize: Apply a nourishing lip balm daily to keep your lips hydrated. Look for ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or vitamin E.
3. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your body and lips hydrated from the inside out.
4. Avoid Licking Your Lips: Saliva can dry out your lips, so avoid this habit.
5. Use a Lip Primer: A lip primer can create a smooth base for your lipstick, enhancing its longevity and preventing feathering.

Choosing the right lipstick shade for your Indian skin tone can enhance your beauty and confidence. By understanding your skin tone and undertone, exploring various shades, and considering the finish that suits your style, you can find the perfect lipstick to complement your look. Remember, makeup is about self-expression, so don’t hesitate to experiment and find shades that make you feel fabulous. This lipstick colour guide lets you discover your lipstick BFF and elevate your makeup game!

FAQs
1. How do I choose the right lipstick?
To choose the right lipstick, identify your skin tone and undertone. Opt for coral and warm reds; choose berry and pink shades for cool undertones. Test different finishes (matte, satin, glossy) and swatch colors on your lips to find the best match for your style and occasion.

2. What type of lipstick should I use?
Choose a lipstick type based on your preferences and occasion. For long-lasting wear, opt for matte formulas; try satin or cream finishes for a comfortable, hydrating feel. Glossy lipsticks offer high shine and plumpness, while sheer options provide a subtle tint. Consider your lifestyle and makeup style when selecting.

3. How do you put on lipstick correctly?
To apply lipstick correctly, start with exfoliated, moisturised lips. Use a lip liner to define your lips and prevent feathering. Apply lipstick using a brush or directly from the tube for precision—Blot with a tissue and layer for intensity. Finish with a touch of gloss for added shine, if desired.

The perfume you wear tells a story about your personality. Our sense of smell is our most robust and strongly affects our emotions. So, whether you are looking for the best perfumes for women or men, your fragrance is deeply interlinked with how people perceive you and how they choose to remember you. Your chosen perfume should align with your personality and help you leave a positive, lasting impression.

With countless options available, it's essential to understand the different factors that contribute to a fragrance's appeal. This perfume buying guide will help you navigate the world of fragrances, ensuring you select the best perfume that resonates with your personality, style, and occasion.

Perfume Buying Guide: Understand Fragrance Families

Fragrances can be categorised into several families, each offering a unique scent profile. Understanding these families is the first step in selecting the best perfumes for men or women:

• Floral: These scents are characterised by floral notes like rose, jasmine, and lily. Floral fragrances are often romantic and feminine, making them the most luxurious perfumes for women.
• Fruity: Combining sweetness with freshness, fruity fragrances include notes such as apple, peach, and berry. They are playful and often lighter.
• Oriental: Rich and exotic, oriental fragrances combine spices, resins, and warmth, making them ideal for evening wear.
• Woody: Woody fragrances, featuring notes like sandalwood, cedar, and patchouli, are often earthy and grounded and make the best perfume for men and women.
• Fresh: Crisp and clean, fresh scents often include citrus and green notes, making them perfect for daytime and casual wear.

Perfume Buying Guide: Notes and Composition

Fragrances are composed of three layers known as notes:

• Top Notes: The initial scents you smell upon application, typically citrus or herbal. They provide the first impression but fade quickly.
• Middle Notes: Also known as heart notes, these develop after the top notes evaporate. They form the core of the fragrance, often floral or fruity.
• Base Notes: These notes provide depth and longevity, usually with heavier scents like vanilla, musk, or wood.

When choosing the best perfume, consider how the notes evolve, as the complete experience will affect how you feel about the perfume.

Also Read: 6 Best Body Mist for Women That Last All Day Long.

Perfume Buying Guide: Factors to Consider When Buying Perfume

1. Longevity and Sillage

• Longevity refers to how long a fragrance lasts on the skin. Perfumes come in different concentrations, such as Eau de Toilette (shorter wear) and Eau de Parfum (longer wear).
• Sillage refers to the trail left by the perfume as you move. Some prefer a subtle scent, while others enjoy a more pronounced presence.

Choosing the right balance between longevity and sillage is essential based on your daily activities and preferences.

2. Personal Style
Your style plays a significant role in selecting the right fragrance. Consider these aspects:

• Casual vs. Formal: You might prefer lighter, fresher scents for everyday wear. For formal occasions, consider richer, more complex fragrances.
• Seasonal Choices: Some fragrances are better suited for specific seasons. Lighter, fresher scents work well in warmer months, while deeper, spicier scents are ideal for colder weather.
• Mood and Personality: Your fragrance should reflect your personality. If you are bold and adventurous, opt for strong, unique scents. If you prefer a softer approach, choose delicate and subtle fragrances.

Read More: Best Men’s Body Mist: Get Fragrance That Lasts Longer.

3. Occasion-Based Fragrance Selection
Different occasions call for other scents. Here are some suggestions:

• Daytime/Office: Light, fresh, and clean fragrances are ideal for the workplace. Consider citrus or floral notes that are manageable.
• Evening/Special Events: Opt for deeper, more complex evenings or special events scents. Oriental or woody fragrances can create an alluring atmosphere.
• Casual Outings: Fruity or light floral fragrances can be perfect for casual outings, offering a fun and playful vibe.

Perfume Buying Guide: Testing and Sampling Fragrances

When trying to find the right perfume, visiting a store can be beneficial:

• Use Testing Strips: Spray a small amount on a testing strip to get an initial impression. This helps you gauge the fragrance without overwhelming your senses.
• Apply to Skin: Due to body chemistry, fragrance can smell different on your skin than on a testing strip. Apply a small amount to your wrist or inner elbow and let it develop for a few hours.
• Give It Time: After testing a fragrance, wait a few hours to see how it evolves. The true character of the scent will emerge as it interacts with your body chemistry. To prevent confusion, avoid applying multiple fragrances at once.

Also This: 6 Best Body Mists for Women to Smell Fragrant Always.

Perfume Buying Guide: Budget Considerations

Perfumes can vary widely in price. It's essential to set a budget before shopping. Here are some general price ranges:

• Luxury Brands: High-end fragrances can be expensive, ranging from $100 to $300 or more.
• Mid-Range Brands: These are more accessible, typically costing between $50 and $100, and offer a good balance of quality and affordability.
• Affordable Options: Plenty of quality fragrances are available for under $50. These can be great for everyday use or as a gift.

Perfume Buying Guide: Online vs In-Store Shopping

While in-store testing is invaluable, online shopping offers convenience and a wider selection. Here are some tips:

• Read Reviews: Customer reviews can provide insights into the scent and longevity.
• Sample Sets: Many online retailers offer sample sets, allowing you to try multiple fragrances before committing to a full bottle.
• Return Policies: Ensure the retailer has a good return policy if the fragrance doesn’t meet your expectations.

How to Maximise Perfume Effect?

• To maximize your perfume’s effect, apply it to pulse points like wrists, neck, and behind the ears, where body heat intensifies the scent.
• Moisturise your skin beforehand, as hydrated skin holds fragrance longer.
• Avoid rubbing the scent, which can alter its notes; gently spray and let it dry.
• Layer fragrances with matching lotions or oils to enhance longevity.
• Reapply throughout the day if needed, especially for lighter scents.
• Finally, store your perfume in a cool, dark place to preserve its integrity and potency.

FAQs
1. How do I know what perfume to buy?
To the best perfume, consider your style, preferred fragrance families (floral or woody), and occasions for wear. Test scents on your skin to see how they evolve. Don’t hesitate to explore samples and read reviews to help narrow down your options. Happy scent hunting!

2. What is the 3 1 1 rule for perfume?
The 3-1-1 rule for perfume suggests applying three sprays of fragrance: one on each wrist and one on your neck. This technique enhances scent projection while ensuring an even distribution. Remember to avoid rubbing the fragrance, allowing it to develop and last longer throughout the day.

3. How do I choose a perfume that lasts?
To choose a long-lasting perfume, look for higher concentrations like Eau de Parfum or Parfum. Check for base notes such as vanilla, amber, or musk, which typically last longer. Additionally, apply to moisturised skin and focus on pulse points to enhance longevity and scent projection throughout the day.

Anyone who has ever been to the dermatologist, follows an Instagram skincare influencer or has been through the streets during peak summer weather without shade can tell you about the importance of sunscreen. That is, almost everyone in today’s day and age. Gone are the days when sunscreen was seen as a skincare hack to prevent tan, now it’s an absolute skincare essential. And especially those now moving towards their thirties and welcoming signs of ageing - wish they had started wearing sunscreen sooner.

Today, wearing sunscreen has become the golden skincare rule. It is non-negotiable. Not just on a sunny day but on a cloudy and rainy one, too. Also when you are sitting inside your house working next to the big window and enjoying the glistening sunshine peek. All of this is because the harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun can travel through clouds and glass too. Not just us, dermatologists, skin experts and science say it too!

The best sunscreen on the block helps protect your skin from the harmful UVA & UVB rays that the sun emits. Continuous exposure to UVB rays can lead to sunburn, tan, irritation, itching and skin burning. On the other hand, if you are exposed to UVA rays, you can incur early signs of ageing like wrinkles, and fine lines, along with hyperpigmentation and even skin cancer in some severe cases. This is why wearing sunscreen becomes scientifically important in order to take the best care of yourself.

And now comes the burning question, which sunscreen to pick? The answer to this is not that simple because skincare is always subjective and picking the perfect sunscreen for your skin type is more like a journey than a destination.

But don’t you worry. We will make you reach the final destination while telling you all about sunscreens along the way. Sit back and relax (maybe get some popcorn too), your skin is about to thank you for making the right decision.

First things first, it’s all ‘bout the ingredients!
Sunscreens come in 2 consumer categories in today’s market: Chemical sunscreens and Mineral Sunscreens. Debunking the myth here, we’d like to say that according to science, sunscreens aren’t “natural” or “organic.” From the point of chemistry and formulation, all sunscreens are made up of chemicals - the difference lies in the way they protect your skin.

Mineral sunscreens work like a shield. They create a barrier on the skin that helps deflect all types of UV rays before they can enter the skin. These are also called Physical sunscreens because they physically help in throwing back the UV rays without letting it enter the layers of your skin. These types of sunscreens are made up of Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide, both of which can lead to an ashy leftover on the skin that takes time to blend into the skin. This is known as the oh-so-popular “white cast.”

Chemical sunscreens get absorbed into the skin and help in creating chemical reactions that would repel, aka, fight the UV rays. Such sunscreens consist of ingredients such as Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients such as Homosalate, Avobenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene, Oxybenzone and Octisalate. Given that these sunscreens get absorbed into the skin, they can make your skin feel greasy, heavy and oily too in some cases (if your skin is already oily).

Both sunscreens, however, protect you from UVA, UVB rays and other environmental stressors too. Both Mineral and Chemical sunscreens have their own pros and cons depending on the kind of formulation they carry.

In 2019, the FDA declared that there were 2 specific ingredients that were neither safe nor effective in sunscreens, namely, PABA and Trolamine Salicylate and were prohibited from use.

A couple other keywords in the sunscreen world include

• Water-resistant: This means that your sunscreen should stay put and work effectively even when you are in the water. Athletes and regular swimmers were only seen to prefer such sunscreens but increasingly it is becoming important for the ideal sunscreen to be water resistant because you wouldn’t want a drop of water slipping down your face to cause sunburn, right?
• Sweat resistant: With the temperature soaring through the roof every summer season (all thanks to global warming), sweat resistant sunscreens have become a must

Although in heavy sweat and during water activities the effectiveness and the protection time of sunscreens can change. Ideally a sunscreen should be able to provide 2-3 hours of protection while you are in water or working outdoors.

The SPF Story
SPF means Sun Protection Factor. This refers to the right amount of time a sunscreen can safeguard you while you stay out in the sun without facing sunburns as compared to if you weren’t wearing sunscreen at all. An SPF 30 would technically then mean that you can stay out in the sun 30 minutes longer while you are wearing this sunscreen on and not incur any sort of sunburn or sun tan. SPF 30 is a must now given the climate and the kind of harsh scorching heat summers we are facing currently. Also, with the temperatures crossing 50 degree celsius, even SPF 30 doesn’t really make the cut. An SPF 50 is what should be present in your bag at any time as reapplication also becomes a must. Anything beyond SPF 50 is said to provide the same kind of protection as the UV rays are already effectively blocked by SPF 50. SPF 15 is said to block 92% of UV rays, SPF 30 95% of UV rays and SPF 50 is said to block 97% of UV rays. SPF 70, 90 & 100, provide the same kind of protection ranging between 97% to 98%. Sunscreens aren’t able to protect you from 100% UV rays. Also, this protection highly depends on the environment, exposure and reapplication.

One needs to pay attention to the sunscreen bottle as well. It needs to be switched at least once a year because after that it loses its efficacy.

The best sunscreen for YOU
A sunscreen is supposed to feel light and nice on the skin and protect you from UV rays. Protection is a must, because that’s the reason for you wearing sunscreen in the first place and then comes the feel good part. An essential rule of sunscreen is to feel light on your skin because this step is a must-have in any routine and you won’t be able to wear a sticky, heavy sunscreen for long, let alone go for reapplication. Thus, sunscreen should always feel lightweight on your skin.

And one of the biggest obstacles that come in the way is finding the right sunscreen - that provides enough protection, doesn’t weigh the skin down and feel light enough on the skin. While mineral sunscreens are said to leave a chalky residue, aka, a white cast, chemical sunscreens are said to be oily and make your face look dull. Both of these factors become big problems for those with darker complexions and oily skin types. And when it comes to dry skin types, finding the perfectly nourishing sunscreen is also a pain. Combination skin types would have a different trouble story to tell.

Every brand and every formulation is built keeping a specific skin concern in mind while having the base clear - to provide utmost sun protection. Recently a lot of brands are coming up with outstanding formulations for every skin type that protects your skin from the sun and it effects. We have some of the best sunscreens in the market today from brands like Aqualogica, Dot & Key, Conscious Chemist and many more. Along with this, as people are moving towards the trends of K-beauty, they are also trying out Korean sunscreen formulations and falling in love with the same. With some makeup infused sunscreen cocktails on the block, it has now become easier than ever to wear and reapply sunscreen without a hitch, and keep yourself protected throughout the day.

Choosing the perfect sunscreen also depends on the kind of lifestyle you prefer. You should be tailoring your SPF according to these three factors:

• Geographical location: Consider factors like temperature, UV index, humidity in your area when choosing the best sunscreen for face
• Time spent outdoors: How much time do you spend outdoors and how comfortable you are with carrying your sunscreen with you everywhere you go?
• Activity level: Choose your sunscreen based on the kind of activity you are performing throughout the day. If you are into sports, then a water resistant and sweat resitsant sunscreen is your best pick

The right way to sunscreen
Once you have the best sunscreen by your side, the process is still not over. Now you need to know how to use it to maximize the protection and keep yourself covered from the harsh effects of sweet sunshine. The first question that comes is - how much Sunscreen is enough? The answer to this question depends on several factors, included but not limited to, your body size, how much area of the skin is exposed to sunlight, and the type of sunscreen you are using. However, a general rule for applying sunscreen on the face is to use the 3 finger rule, wherein you squeeze out a thin line of sunscreen on three of your fingers and apply gently on your skin. For body sunscreen, you can take about a shot glass full of sunscreen to cover your entire body. This includes your arms, leg, back and torso.

Pro tip: Whenever you are applying sunscreen on your face, take it down to your neck too. Take out enough sunscreen to apply on your neck, the back of your neck and cover your ears too. Don’t rub the sunscreen in between your palms before applying it on your face. This will make you lose the product unnecessarily. Generously tap in a thin film of sunscreen and then rub it in.

Another important factor is to reapply your sunscreen every 2 hours if you are exposed to the sun (through a window also counts here). Or if you are sweating heavily or under water, then reapply after you finish the said activity. Make sure to cover all the exposed areas and not leave out any blind spots.

Importance of daily sunscreen usage
One of the biggest questions surrounding the usage of sunscreen is ‘Does one need to wear sunscreen everyday?’ And the answer is always YES. Whether it is sunny or cloudy or even if you are working indoors sitting next to the giant window, you need to wear sunscreen. This is because UV rays are present in the atmosphere 365 days a year. And this makes Sunscreen a non-negotiable product in your everyday routine. Whilst it is not that imperative to wear sunscreen on unexposed areas of the body, it is very important to apply sunscreen on your face, neck, hands, forearms, back of the next and ears and other often-exposed body parts as well in order to prevent sun damage and sun tan.

And why is it so important to wear sunscreen daily? Here’s why:

• Anti-ageing benefits: Wearing sunscreen blocks out UVA rays and thus slows down premature signs of aging that otherwise cause early onset of wrinkles, fine lines, crow’s feet, and age spots as well
• Even skin tone: Sunscreen helps minimize age spots and dark spots, thus promoting an even skin tone in return
• Collagen support function: With minimized exposure to sun, wearing sunscreen everyday keeps the skin elastic and firm for longer
• Reduces irritation: Thanks to the UVB protection function of sunscreen that it helps protect against sun-induced irritation, sunburn and sun tan, keeping the skin safe and sound.
• Maintains overall skin health and suppleness

FAQs

How should I choose my sunscreen?
You should choose a sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher. It should be water and sweat resistant while being a good one for all skin types. Also check the sunscreen for non-comedogenic, lightweight formulas and other specific needs like lifestyle, sensitivity, and activity level.

Which SPF is good for skin 30 or 50?
SPF 30 is said to protect 97% UVB rays while SPF 50 blocks about 98% UVB rays. Both SPF 30 & 50 provide high protection but SPF 50 is a little bit better and provides slightly more protection. This selection also depends on the kind of lifestyle you live. Also, reapply the sunscreen every 2 hours in order to keep yourself protected.

What is the 3 finger rule sunscreen?
The 3 finger sunscreen rule refers to an application process that involves using the optimal quantity of sunscreen to cover the exposed areas and this is represented by three fingers - Index, Middle and Ring. This ensures that your sunscreen is providing adequate coverage and protection. Apply a generous amount of sunscreen all over the exposed areas of the skin. This is only a rough estimate.