apply sunblock 20 minutes before leaving the house and every 20-30 minutes during your time in the sun
Despite Desi culture and myths, we all need to be wearing SPF when out in the sun regardless of the amount of melanin (pigment) in our skin.
Applying sunscreen will prevent sun spots, premature wrinkles and allow you to look younger for longer.
Irrespective of the pigment of your skin, light or dark, without sunblock, you are ultimately damaging it.
Exposure to the sun without SPF decreases the skin’s immune function.
This causes skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and the most serious; melanoma.
Melanoma is responsible for 75 per cent of all skin cancer deaths. It can even spread to other organs if left untreated.
Understandably, purchasing sunscreen can be quite confusing as there are various products available, with many brands creating so many different formats of sunblock.
The beauty industry has seen a massive rise within this area as more people are becoming aware of the benefits of wearing sunscreen on a daily basis.
‘SPF’, stands for sun protection factor and it is a measure of how much ‘UV’ or ultraviolet radiation it takes to burn your skin when exposed in the sun without any protection.
Depending on how susceptible your skin is to the sun, you can use a higher or more concentrated sun factor.
For example, wearing an SPF of 20 theoretically means you are able to withstand the sun 20 times longer than you would if you were not wearing an SPF.
Scientists classify seven different skin types, with Asians typically falling under category 5-7.
Theoretically, as we have darker skin, this means that we have a low cancer risk and rarely burn. So, we require at least SPF 10 against UV exposure.
Meanwhile, paler-skinned Asians fall under category 3-4. They apparently have a slightly higher risk of burning and thus skin cancer. They require at least an SPF 20.
Nonetheless, these are not set guidelines. In order to ensure full protection, we recommend that all Desi’s use at least a sun protection factor of 20-30 in the sun.
Those with a higher tolerance of the sun may wish to use a lower SPF but it is always best to use a higher SPF just to be on the safe side.
DESIblitz has put together our recommended sunscreens that can really work well with Desi skin types.
TIP: It is recommended to apply sunblock 20 minutes before leaving the house and every 20-30 minutes during your time in the sun.
Mac Prep and Prime Face Visage SPF 50
Mac Prep and Prime Face Visage is a skin protecting cream with SPF 50. This product is multifunctional.
It can be used as a moisturising primer, which keeps the face matte all day, and as a fantastic primer underneath makeup.
The primer it is very hydrating and is suitable for all skin types.
It is also fantastic for Desi skin as it does not leave a white, chalky residue as it is fast absorbing.
This primer is priced at £24.00 for a 30ml sized product.
Kiehl’s SPF 50
A featherweight SPF, Kiehl’s easily absorbs into the skin without the traditional sticky feel that regular sunscreens tend to have.
It has a semi-matte finish and its lightweight consistency makes it undetectable on the face.
It has key ingredients like Mexoryl SX and Mexoryl Xl to provide the skin with effective UVA and UVB broad-spectrum sunscreen protection.
It utilises a high level of sun filters, making it a great option, and is also perfect for sensitive skin as it doesn’t irritate the eyes or clog pores.
This SPF is priced at £31.00 for a 60ml sized product.
La Roche Posay Anthelios Face Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 50
La Roche Posay has many sun protection products ranging from sprays, oils, and creams for both the face and the body.
This brand is a great to begin with if you are new to wearing SPF as they have catered an entire line towards sunscreen.
La Roche Posay have specially formulated textures to suit all skin types and skin concerns. This product in particular is fragrance free, has no parabens, is non-comedogenic, and is tested under dermatological supervision.
Again, this product has an ultra-thin consistency that is undetectable on the face which is a far cry from the traditional thick and gloopy sun creams. The SPF is priced at £12.75 for a 50ml product.
Estee Lauder Daywear Advanced Multi Protection Anti-Oxidant & UV Defence Broad Spectrum SPF 50
A highly fast absorbing and incredibly lightweight formula, Estee Lauder Daywear sinks into the skin within seconds.
It can be used over your moisturiser and has been proven to fight the appearance of any free radical damage i.e. any damage from the sun.
The sunscreen is suitable for all skin types and is perfect for adding radiance to your skin as well as nourishing any dullness. What’s more, the product is also non-comedogenic, and so does not clog your pores.
Wearing SPF should be the final part of your skincare routine and the most important.
Without the use of an SPF, any additional steps within your skincare routine including all cleansers, toners and moisturisers you might use for younger, firmer skin will not be as effective.
So get applying your SPF for well-protected skin because who doesn’t want beautiful, healthy looking skin?
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