Gone are the days when sun protection creams and lotions were considered to be a part of women’s skincare routine. Everyone’s skin demands sun protection. There exist a few misconceptions regarding sun protection for men, but we are here to dispel them.
It is often said that men’s skin is tougher, and they do not need sunscreen.But the truth is that men need a high SPF sunscreen just as much as women. Some studies show that men are more prone to skin cancer than women, especially in those areas of the body where it is difficult to apply sunscreen, like the back.
Sunscreen for men is important to prevent skin cancer and premature ageing. It also helps to maintain good skin health, boost self-esteem, and take care of yourself in hot temperatures. Sunscreen for men helps to maintain your youthful appearance, preventing wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Also, a good quality sunscreen for men can help you avoid uncomfortable and painful sunburns. Sunburn damages your skin and increases the risk of skin cancer. Thus, for a number of reasons, it becomes essential to apply sunscreen before you head out to protect your skin.
Let us understand why sunscreens should be a part of every man’s skincare routine and how you can choose the best one for your skin.
Table of Contents
Importance of Sunscreen for Men
- Get UV Protection
Sunscreen protects the skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays by forming a protective barrier. UV radiation causes skin burns, premature ageing, skin damage, and skin cancer. However, if you use sunscreen, it helps avoid sunburn and skin damage while reducing the chances of skin cancer.
- Reduces Hyperpigmentation
If you are someone who stays out most of the time under the sun, then sunscreen is a must-have item on your list. Overexposure to the sun damages your skin, causing dark patches, uneven skin tone, and hyperpigmentation. Sunscreen for men can help prevent these conditions. It also helps you maintain your natural skin complexion, and your skin does not become dull to sun exposure.
- Provides a Shield against Environmental Irritants
Sunscreen for men protects your skin from UV radiation. Besides that, it also acts as a barrier against environmental irritants such as dust, dirt, and pollution. This helps you keep your skin healthy while also lessening the harm that these outside elements can do to your skin.
- Confidence to Step Outside
Men who like being outside should definitely get sunscreen for men as it provides confidence and peace of mind. With your skin protected from the sun’s harmful rays, you can engage in sports, leisure activities, and hobbies to the fullest without getting worried about sun damage. Also, it is easy to use and can be a part of your daily routine.
- Suitable for All Skin Types
We often worry if a product will suit your skin and what consequences it could have. But you do not need to worry, as sunscreen comes with different formulations that suit all skin types, be it oily, dry, or sensitive. You can choose a sunscreen for men that works best for all skin types and is safe from any harmful radiation.
- Prevent Shaving-related Issues
If you are a person who shaves frequently, there might be chances of developing razor burns, skin irritation, or other skin problems due to ingrown hairs. These issues can be irritating and make you feel uncomfortable. Sunscreen for men protects your skin from these issues and calms your skin after shaving.
- Enhances Skin Health
No one wants a skin that looks dull and dehydrated. Sunscreen for men preserves your skin’s hydration level and enhances the overall appearance of your skin. The ingredients in your sunscreen matter as they act as a barrier to the environment’s harmful substances and create a layer on your skin.
A Guide to Select Best Sunscreen
- Broad-spectrum Protection
There are two types of rays- UVA and UVB. You should look for a sunscreen for men that offers broad-spectrum protection, protecting your skin from both rays.
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
SPF indicates the level of protection a sunscreen will provide to your skin from harmful UV rays. Dermatologists often recommend using sunscreen with 30 SPF or higher.
- Water-resistant formula
If you are going for water sports or any activity that may lead to sweating, choose sunscreen for men with a water-resistant formula. These sunscreens stick better on the skin and provide good protection while you enjoy your sports.
- Know Your Skin Type
Before purchasing sunscreen, it is crucial to know your skin type. Different sunscreens for men have different formulations. For example, if you have oily skin, then you should choose oil-free or non-comedogenic sunscreen as that will not clog your pores. If your skin type is dry, go for a sunscreen with added moisturizing properties.
- Expiration Date
Skincare products have a shelf life, which is represented by their expiration date. It is crucial to check the expiration date on the sunscreen before buying, and if you already have a sunscreen for men, regularly keep a check on that date. If your sunscreen has expired, then it won’t give adequate protection to your skin.
- Your Convenience
Most of us are not aware of the availability of different forms of sunscreens. But yes, sunscreen for men is available in different forms like lotion creams, sprays, sticks, and even powder. You should choose a format that is more convenient to you, and you can apply it easily, anywhere, anytime.
Conclusion
We often ignore the fact that our other body parts also require protection from the sun and apply sunscreen just on our faces. This leads to sunburns in the exposed regions and raises the chances of skin cancer. It is important to choose a sunscreen for men that have all the required formula to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. If you don’t like the fragrance of sunscreen, then don’t worry; there are multiple fragrance-free options for men’s sunscreen. Look out for sunscreen for men that has a label of ‘fragrance-free’ or ‘minimal fragrance’. No matter what, don’t forget to apply sunscreen before heading out and also carry one with you to reapply after regular intervals.
