As the monsoon clouds roll in, many people mistakenly believe they can stow away their sunscreen. However, the need for sun protection persists even under overcast skies. The truth is that ultraviolet (UV) radiation, the primary culprit behind sun damage, penetrates clouds, making sunscreen a non-negotiable part of your monsoon skincare routine.Understanding the science behind this is key to maintaining healthy, radiant skin, rain or shine.
Why is Sunscreen Still Essential During Monsoon?
Did you also believe that cloud cover blocks the harsh UV rays?This means that even if the sun isn’tdirectly visible, you’restill exposed to UV radiation capable of causing damage, making sunscreen for face a necessity.
Water droplets in the atmosphere and wet surfaces can reflect UV rays, increasing your overall exposure. This is particularly true near bodies of water or after heavy rainfall. Research demonstrates that reflective surfaces significantly amplify UV radiation exposure. Moreover, the thickness of the ozone layer can vary geographically and seasonally. While the layer absorbs UV radiation, during the monsoon, atmospheric conditions can sometimes potentially increase your chances of being exposed to UV radiation levels, even with cloud cover.
Regardless of the season, comprehensive sun protection is essential to shield against both types of UV radiation, UVA and UVB.
How Should You Choose Sunscreen for Monsoons?
Here are a few pointers to take into account before choosing the right sunscreen for monsoons. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Types of Sunscreen
There are two main types of sunscreen: physical (or mineral) and chemical sunscreens. This heat is then released from the skin gradually. Both the types of sunscreen’s are effective and suit different purposes, so its best to pick the ones based on your skin type and needs.
2. Broad Spectrum Protection
Look for high performance sun protection with labels such as “broad spectrum.” This is the marker that indicates protection against both types of UV rays, UVA and UVB. While the former contributes to premature aging, the latter may cause sunburn.
3. SPF (Sun Protection Factor)
SPF is a universal measure that is denoted to as the sunscreen’s ability to block sun rays, especially UVB. The most common ones are SPF 50+ in the market, while the recommended baseline is to use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
4. Water Resistance
Monsoon season means humidity and potential rain. Choose a water-resistant sunscreen which remains effective for a specified period (usually 40 or 80 minutes) while swimming or sweating.
Conclusion
Ignoring sun protection during the monsoon season is a common mistake that can lead to cumulative skin damage over time. By understanding the science behind UV radiation and its effects, you empower yourself to make informed decisions about your skincare routine. Make sunscreen a daily habit, to maintain healthy, radiant skin throughout the monsoon and beyond. Prioritize your skin health and enjoy the monsoon season with confidence!