How to choose sunscreen? Tips and recommendations for men

¿Cómo elegir un protector solar? Consejos y recomendaciones para hombres

Even though you know that men's skin is thicker than women's, it doesn't mean you shouldn't protect it! One of the best ways to do this is through a good sunscreen. And you will wonder, How to choose the right sunscreen for your skin?

You may not know it, but regular use of sunscreen helps prevent some symptoms of photoaging. That is, it slows the natural aging process caused by prolonged unprotected sun exposure.

If you don't know how to choose a sunscreen, Below we share some tips and recommendations to help you enjoy the sun to the fullest and safely.

Recommendations for choosing a sunscreen for men

If you like choose the right sunscreen For men, it's important to understand how these products work. First of all, you should know that sunscreen is generally composed of a variety of physical and chemical particles to block and absorb UV radiation.

On the one hand , physical particles such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, They enable the skin to deflect UV radiation. In the case of chemical components, they interact with the radiation before it can pass through the skin. They also absorb solar energy and emit it as heat.

It's true that we have the ability to metabolize sunlight, and that the sun is a crucial source of vitamin D. But the link between sun exposure and the health of our skin is more complex than we think.

In addition, skin type has a great impact on How sunlight affects our skin . In fact, your skin is significantly affected by the timing and amount of time you're exposed to the sun.

Having said that, and before making a decision, keep the following recommendations in mind:

1. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen

If you choose a Broad-spectrum sunscreen can prevent skin cancer and premature skin aging. In this regard, we recommend a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

2. Your sunscreen should be water resistant

Even if you don't plan on swimming or bathing, any dermatologist will tell you to use a water-resistant sunscreen. This is because intense sweating and perspiration can remove sunscreen from your face and other areas of your body.

3. Choose lotions instead of sunscreens

The sunscreen lotions They are more effective than creams and also provide additional layers of protection for the skin. Sunscreen lotions, on the other hand, are easy to use on any skin area. Always keep the aforementioned factors in mind when selecting the best sunscreen for men. It is essential that you make sure you choose a sunscreen based on your skin type.

4. Check the manufacturing and expiration dates

It's not a good idea to use sunscreen past its expiration date. Therefore, you should always check the manufacturing date as well as the expiration date on the sunscreen.

Ideally, buy a sunscreen with a manufacturing date close to the current date. Recently manufactured products will always be more potent. Furthermore, the manufacturer is not responsible for any adverse reactions or symptoms caused by using a product after its expiration date.

And be careful when reaching for that sunscreen you have in your cupboard from last year! Keep in mind that sunscreen that's been opened or is more than a year old may not provide the level of sun protection your skin needs.

In short, never use sunscreen that has expired, or is close to expiring.

What is sun protection factor?

When choosing a sunscreen also It's very important to consider the sun protection factor, or SPF . This is a measure that determines how effective a sunscreen is at protecting your skin from UVB rays.

If you have dark skin, it is recommended that you choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 20. On the contrary, If you have lighter skin, it is ideal to use a sunscreen with protection factor 30. onwards.

As we mentioned before, it's best to use sunscreen with SPF 30 in all cases. In fact, the higher the SPF, the more sun protection you'll provide your skin.

It's also a good idea to buy a sunscreen with a light, non-greasy texture for added comfort.

What is the difference between moisturizer with SPF and sunscreen?

Nowadays, many moisturizers already contain SPF, which basically performs the same function as sunscreen. The main difference between the two products is that Moisturizers with SPF aren't applied in large quantities to the skin . As a result, a moisturizer with SPF doesn't offer the same protection as sunscreen; it protects you from the sun during your daily activities, but you'd never use it for sunbathing.

As a side note, moisturizers with SPF generally provide antioxidant properties that help maintain optimal levels of collagen and elastin in the skin.

How to maximize the effectiveness of sunscreen?

Now you know how to choose the right sunscreen for your skin. However, we also want to share a few tips to maximize sun protection.

  • Ideally, apply sunscreen 10 to 15 minutes before going outside.
  • It is also recommended that you apply a non-greasy sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours to extend UVB protection.
  • If you have oily or acne-prone skin, we recommend purchasing a water-based sunscreen.
  • Water-resistant sunscreens can effectively protect your skin for 40 to 80 minutes in the water. Therefore, you should reapply sunscreen once you get out of the water.
  • Make sure you're using sunscreen on all areas of your body exposed to the sun's rays. For example, between your fingers, on the back of your neck, or behind your ears.
  • Whenever possible, wear sunglasses, cotton clothing, and a hat for even more complete protection.

You now have all the knowledge you need to get a great tan without getting burned, so grab your sunscreen and towel and enjoy the summer 😉

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