The anti-sunscreen movement has reached a crescendo on social media, with many celebrities and skin-fluencers claiming to have either given up on sunscreen altogether or switching to a dubious 'natural' alternative. If that sounds too ludicrous to be true, consider a 2024 study by the Orlando Health Cancer Institute, which found that nearly 14 percent of adult respondents under 35 years of age believe that wearing sunscreen every day is more harmful than direct sun exposure.
Gordon Ramsay after his basal cell carcinoma removal surgery. PIC COURTESY/ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT
Even as SPF deniers cry themselves hoarse about developing 'sun resistance', celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay has come clean about having surgery to remove basal cell carcinoma from his jawline -- unsurprisingly, one of the primary causes of this condition is chronic sun exposure. The 58-year-old went on to reiterate the importance of wearing sunscreen, prompting us to ask skincare experts most people get wrong about sun protection.
"India's tropical location ensures that we're exposed to strong UV radiation throughout the year. These UV rays can harm your skin and lead to premature aging, dark spots and, ultimately, skin cancers too. Sunscreen acts as a shield, guarding your skin against both UVA and UVB rays. It's like having daily skin insurance," says Dr Shweta Nakhawa, consultant dermatologist at KIMS Hospitals, Thane. She recommends picking products that offer 'broad spectrum' protection so that your skin is protected from both UVA and UVB rays.
Apply a layer of sunscreen every two to three hours when outdoors
"For Indian skin, an SPF of 30-50 is sufficient for regular usage. Individuals with oily or acne-prone skin should choose gel-based or matte sunscreens, while individuals with dry skin can use creamier sunscreens. Water-resistant sunscreens come in handy if you tend to sweat a lot, or are outside most of the time," she adds.
Dr Renuka Nalawade Rajale, a consultant dermatologist, cosmetologist and founder of My Dermat Clinic, adds that a common misconception is that darker skin tones don't need sunscreen: "Everyone needs protection against UV rays. The correct sunscreen does not only prevent tanning and premature ageing but also reduces risk of skin cancer. Think of it as your daily shield against an invisible but very real threat."
Dr Rajale emphasises the importance of wearing enough sunscreen on all parts of the body that are exposed to the sun, including your face, neck, arms and even your ears. It's also crucial to reapply sunscreen frequently -- she recommends adding a fresh layer every two or three hours if you're indoors and after shorter durations if you are outdoors. "Rubbing sunscreen into your skin doesn't help. Aim to pat it on lightly to create a protective coating," she says. Dr Nakhawa highlights wearing sunscreen 20 minutes before going out. "Use roughly half a teaspoon of product for your face and neck combined. Sunscreen is a must, even on cloudy days. Even if the sun isn't bright, UV rays penetrate the atmosphere and your skin, making protection a must," she signs off.
Screen or block?
Most brands offer either physical or chemical sunscreens, which are differentiated by how they block rays. Physical or mineral sunscreens create a physical barrier while chemical sunscreens absorb and scatter the spectrum. Each type comes with its pros and cons - while physical sunscreens sit on the surface of your skin, they can be heavier and can leave a whitish residue. These formulae must also be reapplied more frequently and can be difficult to blend into your skin. If picking a physical sunscreen, look for matte or tinted formulations for a more seamless finish.