Are you the one who puts sunscreens aside even when it drizzles a little? But do you really think clouds got your skin covered from the sun too?
If you’re answering “yes”, then you definitely need to read this article.
Let's begin by answer this question first.
Is sunscreen necessary on rainy days?
It is. Without a doubt!
Here's the mechanism associated with it.
The sun emits both UVA and UVB rays. Although both are harmful to the skin, UVA is the prime cause of the signs of premature skin aging like fine lines, wrinkles. And if the exposure to the sun is consistent for longer durations, it can induce or worsen hyperpigmentation.
During the rainy days the sun does hide behind the clouds, but the UVA rays do not limit themselves to the clouds. They are able to penetrate the clouds and also have the ability to reach the earth’s surface.
On the other hand, UVB rays are also potent to harm the skin. The reflective surfaces like ice and snow can intensify the rays and simultaneously their effect on the skin. 
This concludes to the fact that sun protection is unmissable 365 days!
5 tips to find right sunscreen for monsoon
It can be cumbersome to pick the right sunscreen for the rainy season out of all the options available in the market. Well, we are here to ease your trouble. Read below and get the sunscreen that has -
1. Water resistant properties
If it's raining, everything needs to be waterproof! And yes, there are sunscreens out there that have water resistant properties. This kind of formulation does not promote moisture loss from the skin and surprisingly, does not wear off quickly!
So, it’s a win-win for your skin!
2. Gel based texture
The stickiness of the rainy season is enough to deal with! Majority of the sunscreens give that stickiness and exaggerate greasiness in the damp and humid weather.
Therefore, go for the sunscreens that offer gel based texture. It gives you a smooth and velvety finish.
3. Label saying “non - comedogenic”
Comedogenic ingredients are the ones that clog pores and subsequently lead to blackheads, whiteheads, and acne.
So look for the product bottles labeled as “non comedogenic”. This label signifies that there are no ingredients that can block the pores and keep the skin pores breathable.
Healthy choice, no?!
4. Broad spectrum protection
As discussed above, mainly, UVA and UVB rays come from the sun. And both are harmful in their own ways.Consequently, you need sunscreens that protect you from both types of rays. So, look for the ones delivering ‘broad spectrum protection’.
Now, Broad Spectrum Protection or Sun Protection Formula (SPF) shields your skin against UVA and UVB rays. The higher the SPF, the more the protection. It is recommended to use SPF 30 or higher to defend your skin’s health against skin.
5. PA ratings
We now know that UVA rays are specifically more harmful to the skin. And to counter that, there is this thing in the sunscreen formulation called PA rating.
PA ratings signify the protection level against UVA rays, particularly. The more plusses are there against the PA rating, the more defensive the sunscreen will be. Here’s the break down for you
- PA+ = Some UVA protection.
- PA++ = Moderate UVA protection.
- PA+++ = High UVA protection.
- PA++++ = Extremely High UVA protection.
P.S.
Now you know why wearing sunscreen is crucial even on the days it is cloudy or raining. Besides this fact, it is also important to look out for the sunscreens according to your skin type. For instance, if you have oily/acne prone skin, look for the sunscreens that are Oxybenzone free and are non-comedogenic in nature.
Research before you purchase. Learn the facts and feed your skin what it craves. And protect your skin whenever and wherever you can! But don’t restrict yourself from enjoying nature!
