Does sunscreen expire? Everything you need to know about shelf life and safety
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Time of India
8 hours ago
- Time of India
Monsoon and sunscreen: 5 myths and facts
Despite monsoon's arrival, experts emphasize year-round sunscreen use, debunking myths about cloud cover and skin tone. Waterproof makeup isn't sufficient; Indian skin needs protection too. Reapplication every two hours is crucial. Sunscreen expires, requires proper quantity, and should be applied 15-30 minutes before sun exposure for optimal defense against UV rays. After the relentless summer heat, the monsoon showers are showering more than just the smell of rain, a cool breeze, and an incomparable desire to snack on something fried. The overcast skies may have started looking pastel-pretty, but that does not mean you can safely hang up your sunscreens. If you believe that wearing sunscreen is seasonal, optional, and not required because no sun equals no damage, then here are five common sunscreen myths and some essential sunscreen facts that will help set the record straight. 5 myths about sunscreen Myth 1: You can do without sunscreen when it's rainy or cloudy Despite layers of rain clouds, around 80% of UVA and UVB rays still manage to reach the Earth's surface, these harmful rays make their way through windows and get reflected by water, requiring you to keep your sunscreen handy. Myth 2: Waterproof makeup offers enough protection Relying solely on makeup is likely to leave your skin more vulnerable than you would be comfortable with. Waterproof makeup is great, but the SPF in these products can't compare to an SPF 50 sunscreen in providing serious and comprehensive sun protection. Myth 3: Indian skin doesn't need sunscreen Having more melanin does not make sunscreen redundant. Melanin, while valuable in providing natural UV protection, still falls short of the capabilities of a sunscreen. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Sun damage, which manifests as redness and burns on lighter skin tones, causes long-term problems of hyperpigmentation and premature ageing in darker skin tones. Myth 4: Sunscreen can break you out in humid weather Humid weather is inherently popular for causing an increase in acne breakouts and skin inflammation. Naturally, this calls for lightweight sunscreens with non-comedogenic formulas that can easily help you sidestep clogged pores and irritation. Today, you can also find sunscreens with anti-acne technology. Myth 5: One application lasts all day Nothing lasts forever, including your sunscreen protection. When there are a myriad of aggressors your sunscreen is providing defence against, stacking the odds is the way to go. Reapplying your sunscreen every two hours does not make you paranoid; it makes you a smart and forward-thinking strategist. With these myths busted, let's quickly consume some essential facts about sunscreens. 5 facts about sunscreen Fact 1: Infants cannot use sunscreen Its is true that Doctors don't recommend using sunscreens for infants under 6 months, instead they advocate limiting their sun exposure and using protective clothing. Fact 2: Sunscreen can expire Sunscreens are usually good for three years after the date of manufacturing. Fact 3: Higher protection depends on quantity as much as SPF number. Applying the right amount of sunscreen, about two finger lengths, may not be pleasurable, but it is essential in equipping you with robust protection. Don't forget to cover all exposed areas and top up every 2 hours. Fact 4: SPF 30 is not twice as effective as SPF 15 SPF 30 does blocks about 97% of UV rays while SPF 50 obstructs 98%. Although higher SPFs do provide slightly better protection, no product can offer 100% defence. Fact 5: Applying sunscreen while outside does not help Your sunscreen requires time to work with your skin and form a layer that protects your skin against UV rays. Applying SPF 15-30 minutes before stepping out allows you to avoid the initial UV damage you would otherwise incur if you apply it outside. There you have it! Leaving out sunscreen is never a smart choice. Sun protection is now available in multiple textures, sizes, and formats, you can choose one that specifically meets your needs and keeps your family and yourself UV safe throughout the year. Inputs by Riya Sehgal, Senior Brand Manager – Heliocare, Skinspired
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Business Standard
4 days ago
- Business Standard
Can sunscreen pills replace your cream? Here's what dermatologists say
Marketed as an easy way to protect skin from within, oral sunscreen pills are emerging as an alternative for busy office-goers, for whom applying sunscreen often slips down the to-do list or is completely forgotten. Social media and brands are pitching them as the next big thing in sun protection. But while these supplements promise convenience, can they offer the same level of defense as SPF creams? According to Dr Sarita Sanke, head of Cosmetology and Dermatology at Yashoda Cosmetic Boutique, Yashoda Superspeciality Hospital, Kaushambi, the answer lies in understanding how they work. What are oral sunscreen pills, and how they work? Oral or 'systemic' photoprotection means taking substances internally that help your body fight sun-induced skin damage from the inside out. 'These pills often contain vitamins, minerals, polyphenols, carotenoids like beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein, and astaxanthin. Of these, lycopene is the most efficient regarding antioxidant activity. Carotenoids decrease reactive oxygen species (ROS) in aerobic metabolism. Carotenoids can suppress UVA and UVB-mediated ROS formation, thereby preventing photoinactivation of antioxidant enzymes, lipid peroxidation, and induction of DNA damage caused by oxidative stress. Lycopene, a polyunsaturated hydrocarbon (C40H56), is endowed with a very high antioxidant capacity, quenching singlet oxygen,' explained Dr Sanke. 'They can reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and immune damage triggered by UV rays. However, they do not act like a physical shield against sunlight.' 'These supplements have low toxicity, and since many are nutrients, they rarely cause side effects,' she further explained. But allergies and health conditions should always be considered before starting them, she cautioned. Can these pills replace your sunscreen cream? 'No. They should only be used as an adjunct, never a replacement,' said Dr Sanke. While oral sunscreens can boost antioxidant protection against UVA and UVB damage, they can't match the direct UV-blocking power of a topical sunscreen. If you have skin conditions worsened by sunlight, like melasma, vitiligo, photoaging, actinic keratosis, or chronic photosensitivity disorders, oral photoprotectors may help reduce flare-ups. They are also useful for those prone to rashes after even mild sun exposure. When and how should you take them? Dr Sanke advised taking them daily after breakfast for better absorption. If you have a big sunny event, like a beach holiday, start at least a week to 10 days in advance. Consistency is key, and they work best alongside a proper SPF routine. Overall, they are low-risk. 'But always check for allergies and avoid self-prescribing if you are on medication or have health conditions,' warned Dr Sanke. Can we measure their SPF like creams? According to Dr Sanke, oral sunscreens do not significantly reduce redness (erythema) the way creams do, so SPF ratings do not apply. Instead, scientists measure their effects by antioxidant activity and immune protection. What would be the best routine? Here's Dr Sanke's sun-safety checklist for those with high sun exposure: Take oral sunscreens daily. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ or higher cream every three hours between 9 am and 3 pm. Wear sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and lightweight cotton clothing. Use umbrellas or shaded walkways whenever possible. According to Dr Sanke, medical bodies like American Academy of Dermatology and the Indian Association of Dermatologists support oral sunscreen pills, but only as an add-on to topical sunscreen, never a substitute. So, if you're hoping for a pill that replaces your SPF, it's not here yet. But if you want an extra layer of defense against sun damage, especially if you have sensitive skin or high exposure, these supplements can be a valuable ally.
News18
4 days ago
- News18
The Complete Guide To Fading Hyperpigmentation On Skin Naturally And Safely
Healing hyperpigmentation on dark skin takes time, but with consistency, you'll see lasting improvements that enhance your natural glow. Hyperpigmentation – patches of skin that appear darker than the surrounding area – is a common concern for people with dark skin tones. It can be triggered by acne, sun damage, hormonal changes, or inflammation. While fading hyperpigmentation requires patience, the right approach can lead to noticeable, long-lasting results without damaging your skin's natural glow. 1. Start with Sun Protection Even if your skin rarely burns, UV rays can deepen existing dark spots and slow down healing. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, even indoors. Look for formulas that leave no white cast, such as those containing micronised zinc oxide or tinted mineral sunscreens. 2. Gentle Cleansing and Exfoliation Over-scrubbing can irritate the skin, leading to more pigmentation. Opt for gentle chemical exfoliants like lactic acid, mandelic acid, or polyhydroxy acids (PHAs). These dissolve dead skin cells, allowing brighter skin to emerge over time without triggering inflammation. 3. Target with Proven Brightening Ingredients When researching how to fade hyperpigmentation on dark skin, focus on clinically backed ingredients: Vitamin C – Antioxidant that brightens and protects Niacinamide – Reduces inflammation and uneven tone Azelaic Acid – Targets both pigmentation and acne Alpha Arbutin – Gentle skin-lightening agent suitable for dark skin Retinoids – Boost cell turnover for gradual fading Introduce these slowly into your routine to avoid irritation. 4. Avoid Skin-Lightening Shortcuts Steer clear of harsh bleaching creams with high-dose hydroquinone or steroids without medical guidance, as they can cause long-term damage, including ochronosis (skin thickening and darkening). Always patch-test new products first. 5. Consider Professional Treatments For stubborn pigmentation, dermatologists may recommend chemical peels, microneedling, or laser therapy tailored for dark skin. Always choose a professional experienced in treating melanin-rich skin to avoid complications. 6. Be Consistent and Patient Hyperpigmentation doesn't fade overnight. It can take 8–12 weeks to see results. Consistency in sun protection, targeted treatments, and gentle care is key. Fading hyperpigmentation on dark skin is less about quick fixes and more about building a routine that protects, nourishes, and repairs. By combining daily sun protection, proven brightening ingredients, and gentle care, you can gradually restore an even, radiant complexion. view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
