Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes the promise of sun-soaked days at the beach, picnics in the park, and outdoor adventures aplenty. While the sun’s warm embrace can be delightful, it also brings with it the potent threat of harmful UV rays. Enter sunscreen: your skin’s best friend and ultimate shield against sun damage.

When it comes to skincare, men have often been relegated to the side-lines, with sunscreen seen as an afterthought in the grooming routine. However, times are changing, and the importance of sun protection knows no gender bounds. Men, just like women, are susceptible to the damaging effects of UV rays, from premature aging to an increased risk of skin cancer.

In this dedicated guide, I’m putting the spotlight on sunscreen for men, debunking the notion that sun protection is a ‘feminine’ concern and highlighting its critical role in every man’s daily regimen. I’ll delve into the best sunscreens tailored for men’s unique skin needs, discuss how to seamlessly incorporate SPF into your daily routine, and address common misconceptions that may be keeping you from safeguarding your skin effectively.

But sunscreen isn’t just a seasonal essential for beach bums and outdoor enthusiasts; it’s a year-round necessity for everyone. From protecting against premature aging to reducing the risk of skin cancer, the benefits of sunscreen are as vast as the sunny skies above. Come experience the world of sun protection created with the modern man in mind, whether you’re a hardy outdoor enthusiast, a city dweller, or somewhere in between. It’s time to take skincare to the next level and enjoy the sun with confidence and safety!

 

“How to choose a sunscreen based on SPF, skin type, and broad-spectrum protection for optimal care.”

Broad Spectrum

“Broad-spectrum” sunscreen refers to a type of sunscreen that provides protection against both UVA (Ultraviolet A) and UVB (Ultraviolet B) rays from the sun. Broad-spectrum sunscreens offer complete coverage to help prevent sunburn, premature ageing, and lower the risk of skin cancer. They are developed to protect against both UVA and UVB radiation. It’s essential to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen composition to guarantee that you are fully protected from the sun’s damaging rays. For optimal sun protection, select a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and remember to reapply regularly, especially after swimming, sweating, or prolonged sun exposure.

Sunscreen Cream over spray

Both sunscreen creams and sprays offer protection against harmful UV rays, but there are several reasons why sunscreen creams are often preferred over sprays. Sunscreen creams typically provide better and more consistent coverage as they can be spread evenly over the skin, ensuring that all areas are adequately protected as compared to sprays where you might miss areas around the hairline, ears and underarms. Additionally, the spray may evaporate or be wiped off more easily, reducing its efficacy over time.

Ingredients important for sunscreen

Avobenzone: A broad-spectrum UVA filter that helps protect against long-wave UVA rays, Octocrylene: A UVB filter that also helps stabilize avobenzone, increasing its effectiveness, Zinc Oxide: A physical ingredient that provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays by reflecting and scattering them away from the skin. Titanium Dioxide: Another sunscreen ingredient that offers broad-spectrum protection by reflecting and scattering UV rays.

Ingredients to avoid

When purchasing sunscreen, it’s important to be aware of certain ingredients that may be harmful or potentially irritating to the skin. Oxybenzone: Some studies suggest oxybenzone can be absorbed through the skin and may disrupt hormones, potentially leading to hormonal imbalances and other health issues. Octinoxate (Octyl Methoxycinnamate): Octinoxate can also be absorbed into the skin and has been shown to disrupt hormones and potentially harm marine life when washed off into the ocean. PEGs (Polyethylene Glycols): PEGs are often used as emulsifiers or solvents in skincare products but can be contaminated with harmful impurities like 1,4-dioxane, which is a potential carcinogen.

Sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) range of 30-50

Sunscreens with an SPF of 30 to 50 provide excellent protection against UVB rays, which are the main cause of sunburn and have also been connected to skin cancer. Significant protection against sunburn and skin damage is offered by SPF 30 and SPF 50, which filter out roughly 97% and 98% of UVB radiation. If you’re planning to spend extended periods outdoors or participating in outdoor activities, a higher SPF can provide longer-lasting protection and reduce the need for frequent reapplication, especially if you sweat or swim, respectively.

Paraben-free, Fragrance-free

Opting for a sunscreen that is both paraben-free and fragrance-free can offer several benefits, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or specific skin concerns. Using a sunscreen without paraben and fragrance reduces the risk of irritation. Paraben-free and fragrance-free sunscreens are often formulated with gentle and hypoallergenic ingredients suitable for sensitive skin types. These sunscreens are less likely to cause irritation, stinging, or burning sensations, making them ideal for daily use and reapplication throughout the day. Paraben-free and fragrance-free sunscreens are suitable for a wide range of skin types and conditions, including acne-prone skin, rosacea, eczema, and other skin sensitivities, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for everyone seeking sun protection.

 

Five budget-friendly sunscreens ideal for Indian men

 

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen SPF50+

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen is a popular sunscreen product line known for its lightweight, non-greasy formula that provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. With its lightweight texture and Advanced HelioplexTM XP Technology, it provides potent protection against harmful UVA/UVB rays and five symptoms of sun damage without leaving a white cast. The fast-absorbing formula ensures easy and even application, allowing the sunscreen to absorb quickly into the skin without feeling heavy or clogging pores. It boasts a rating above 4 stars and is priced between 300 to 400 rupees. It can be found in any online shopping websites such as Amazon, Flipkart and BigBasket.

 

 Minimalist SPF 50 Sunscreen

To protect against UVA and UVB rays, this sunscreen is made with four very powerful UV filters: octocrylene, titanium dioxide, avobenzone, and Uvinul T 150. Enhanced with vitamins A, B3, B5, E, and F, which soothe, nourish, and hydrate skin in addition to healing it from sun damage. It is a sunscreen that is safe for acne and photostable, leaving no white cast behind after application. It also spreads easily, much like a mild moisturiser, and doesn’t feel heavy or leave behind unwanted residue. It can be used by people having dry/normal, sensitive, oily/combination, acne-prone skin. It retails at the price range of 300-400 rupees, has a rating over 4.5 stars and can be directly bought from the official Minimalist website or you can purchase it from Amazon, Nykaa.

 

Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen with SPF 50+

This sunscreen is enriched with the goodness of Papaya, Vitamin C, and Hyaluronic Acid, which provides ample hydration to your skin while imparting a radiant glow. With SPF 50 and PA++++ protection, this non-sticky sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB rays. It has a water-light texture that gives a dewy look without leaving a white cast behind. It’s fragrance-free and colour-free, making it safe for all skin types. Crafted with a water-light formula, the Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen is non-sticky and penetrates easily into the skin after every application. It is non-oily, fragrance-free, colour-free and doesn’t clog pores and gives a glow to the skin. It has a high rating of more than 4.5 stars and retails at the price range of 500-600 and can be found on the official website of Aqualogica or can be purchased through Amazon, Tira, Nykaa.

 

Brinton UV Doux Face & Body Sunscreen gel with SPF 50 PA+++

Brinton Uv Doux Sunscreen face-body gel SPF 50 PA+++ is a handy gel sunscreen that is easy to use and doesn’t leave your skin feeling greasy like most sprays and lotions do. Brinton Uv doux Sunscreen face-body gel SPF 50 PA+++ strengthens skin’s defences against daily aggressors to keep skin youthful and radiant-looking all day! It is non irritant, water resistant, sweat resistant, preservative free, alcohol & dye free. It has non-comedogenic formulation. It has a rating of more than 4 stars and retails at the price range of 700-800 rupees. You can purchase it through the official website of Brinton or you can purchase it through Amazon.

 

Re’equil Ultra Matte Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++

Re’equil Ultra Matte Sunscreen offers the highest level of protection against UVA and UVB rays with SPF 50 and PA++++ rating. This sunscreen glides and blends effortlessly onto the skin, leaving no white cast or ashy appearance. It is  water & sweat-resistant and is suitable for outdoor activities and sports and stays on the skin even under humid conditions.  It is a non-comedogenic sunscreen formulated with anti-inflammatory and soothing ingredients that prevent irritation and breakouts on the skin. It has a light weight, hydrating formula and is suitable for all skin tones. It retails at the price range of 600-700 and can be found on the official website of Re’equil or can be purchased through any of the online shopping website.

 

In summary, men must use the proper sunscreen to shield their skin from damaging UV radiation and preserve a healthy complexion. Finding a sunscreen that fits specific needs and tastes is now simpler than ever thanks to the variety of reasonably priced solutions accessible. Emphasising skin-friendly formulas, appropriate SPF values, and broad-spectrum protection guarantees not only efficient sun protection but also a comfortable wearing experience. Include sunscreen in your skincare routine every day to protect the health of your skin and keep it looking young for years to come.