As the monsoon rolls in, bringing relief from the sweltering summer heat, many of us breathe a sigh of relief and look forward to cozy moments with tea and pakoras on our balconies. People relax and forget their skincare elements during monsoon.Amidst this rainy respite, there’s one skincare essential that often gets overlooked—sunscreen. Harmful UV rays not only lead to common skin issues like tanning, sunburn, rashes, and premature aging but also increase the risk of serious skin conditions such as skin cancer.
Many people believe that Sunscreen in monsoons is unnecessary as the clouds provide cover from the sun's rays. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. Here's why sunscreen remains essential year-round, even during cloudy or rainy weather:
Clouds Don’t Block UV Rays
It's a common misconception that clouds offer sufficient protection against UV radiation. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, more than 80% of UVA UVB radiations can penetrate through clouds, reaching your skin and causing potential damage. While dense clouds may reduce UV exposure to some extent, harmful rays can still permeate through, making it crucial to apply sunscreen regardless of cloud cover. Cloudy skies are unpredictable and can clear up suddenly, exposing your skin to direct sunlight without warning.
Sun Damage is Independent of Weather
The notion that sun protection is only necessary on sunny days or during the summer is another misconception. UV levels remain consistent throughout the year, irrespective of temperature or weather conditions. Even on cold or rainy days, UV rays can cause significant harm to your skin, leading to sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Therefore, adding monsoon sunscreen is necessary for maintaining healthy skin regardless of the season.
Reflection of UV Rays
UV rays have the ability to reflect off various surfaces such as water, sand, snow, and even grass, intensifying their impact on your skin. Research indicates that up to 17% of UVB rays can reflect through these surfaces, amplifying sun exposure by as much as 80%. This means that even on cloudy or rainy days, indirect exposure to UV radiation can occur, emphasizing the importance of sunscreen to counter these effects.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen
When selecting a sunscreen for monsoon, prioritize those that offer broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for a sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30, but preferably SPF 50 for extended protection against harmful rays. Waterproof or water-resistant formulations are essential during the monsoon, given the high humidity and likelihood of rain.
Sunscreen for oily skin is another concern for people with oily skin. Major chunk avoid sunscreen as it causes breakout or is extremely heavy on their skin. Always opt for non-comedogenic sunscreens that are lightweight and mattifying to avoid clogged pores and excess shine. Fortunately, there are many sunscreen options designed specifically for oily and acne-prone skin types and Play Dirty by GRASS is the best sunscreen for monsoon, providing effective protection without exacerbating skin concerns.
Why SPF 50 Matters?
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 50 provides high-level protection against UVB rays, significantly reducing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. This is particularly crucial during the monsoon season when UV radiation levels remain high despite cloud cover.
Protect Your Skin, Rain or Shine
Skincare should not be limited to specific seasons or weather conditions. Applying sunscreen daily, regardless of whether it’s sunny, cloudy, or rainy, is essential for maintaining healthy and youthful-looking skin. By adding sunscreen into your daily routine, you are actively reducing the risk of skin cancer and minimising the visible signs of aging caused by sun exposure.
Conclusion
Don’t let the arrival of the monsoon rain deter you from maintaining your skincare routine. Embrace the season with the best monsoon waterproof sunscreen that offers SPF 50 protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Whether you're indoors or outdoors, whether the skies are clear or cloudy, make sunscreen application a non-negotiable part of your daily routine. Your skin will thank you for the consistent care and protection, ensuring it remains healthy and glowing throughout the year.
