Blog

Why do you think sunscreens have gotten so complicated? 

Especially sunscreen for Indian skin. Which one suits dry skin? which one doesn't feel heavy? which one is easy to apply ? how often would I need to reapply, and the list goes on. 

The answer to the first question is simple. Sunscreens are getting complicated because sunscreen is really easy to mess up, specifically when it comes to sunscreen for Indian skin.

So not only should the formulation and your skin have a happy marriage, but you also need to master the quantity, the reapply time, and getting every layer on, WITHOUT  a white cast. 

At least that’s what influencers have shamed us to do. 

In their battle of creating the most cutting-edge content, many have complicated sunscreens, especially for pigmented, sensitive, acne-prone, brown skin.

Sunscreens are the most affordable form of anti-ageing and you might even prevent botox because of sunscreen.

To navigate confusing but essential sunscreen jargon, keep on reading to see how easy this entire skincare maze is.

HOW TO MAKE SURE YOU GET THE BEST SUNSCREEN FOR INDIAN SKIN? 

Check all these factors - 

1. CHEMICAL SUNSCREENS VS PHYSICAL SUNSCREENS

Chemical Sunscreens absorb into the skin. They absorb UV rays and then release them. 

They contain the UV filters of avobenzone, oxybenzone, oxtinoacte.

They are water-resistant, not water-proof, and absorb into the skin quickly.

These sunscreens will not leave a white cast. So, these will function as great sunscreens for Indian skin. 

Physical Sunscreens / Mineral Sunscreens block UV rays by sitting on top of the skin and then reflecting the harsh rays. 

They are gentler, more moisturizing and do not get absorbed into the skin.

They are not water soluble so they do not get absorbed by the skin, which is a good thing for people with acne breakouts, and sensitive and red skin.

They have a universal filter, so they might leave a white cast.

2. SPF

An SPF 30 means it would take sun rays 30 times as normal to penetrate your skin and cause damage. 

Similarly for SPF 50. Dermatologists say it is necessary to go out with an SPF 50 at least.

A sunscreen with a higher SPF is not only great at preventing of sun rays but SPF 50 is also significantly better to decrease redness and overall skin appearance.

Also, you must walk out 20 minutes after applying your sunscreen, or even put your makeup on your sunscreen to not create any sparse spots. In the Indian climate, it is more necessary to have a greater control over the sun and only an SPF 50 or higher can work as a suitable sunscreen for Indian skin.

This is also why sunscreen sprays are okay for reapplication, but not as the first layer of sunscreen. 

Because they miss spots and are always at risk to be inhaled and cause problems. Their ease of application is attractive, however, due to being disproportionate in covering skin from sun exposure.

3. PA+++

This protection factor manages to protect the skin from UVA rays. The “+” sign is allocated according to the PPD factor.

The persistent Pigment Darkening (PPD) score determines how broad the spectrum of UVA protection is. PA+++ is where you can safely step out of the house with full sun protection.

When you get both UVA and UVB protection in your sunscreen, only then your sunscreen would offer full on broad spectrum protection.

4. EXPIRATION DATE

Sunscreens, like every other packaged product, have a shelf life, even after being thoroughly packed. 

Usually, within three years of being produced, the expiration date comes nearer, and the product loses its integrity by then, and if used can be harmful to the skin. 

They also change color with time. 

This is how you can make sure whether the sunscreen you are getting is safe for use or not, and whether or not will it be one of the sunscreens for Indian skin.

Our recommendation for Indian skin is an Indian sunscreen that is derived from ayurvedic ingredients and optimizes the science of UV filters to give you the best sun protection from heated sun exposure in this beautiful tropical country of ours.



Satthwa's SPF 50 is a chemical sunscreen that is water-based and with a band of PA +++ protection.