Does Sunscreen Make Your Skin Glow?

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What is the one skincare product that you cannot start your day without? For me, it’s sunscreen. I cannot imagine stepping out into the sun without slathering my face, hands, and neck with a sunblock cream.

Sunscreen now comes in different variations, ranging from tinted sunblock to moisturizers. But the question is, does sunscreen make your skin glow?

Yes, sunscreen contains ingredients reflecting light, leaving your skin with a dewy, glowy finish. Some sunscreens that contain hydrating ingredients may also make your skin glow while providing the necessary hydration your skin needs to stay supple and fresh. ~Rachel Nazarian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist.

Sunblock is a crucial part of daytime skincare, without which your skin will be exposed to unnecessary damage from the sun. This article investigates what sunscreen is and what effects it has on the skin. So, without further delay, let’s dive into it!

What is sunscreen and how does it work?

Sunscreen is a product that offers protection against the harmful rays of the sun. It contains active ingredients that either reflects the sun’s rays from the skin or absorb these Ultraviolet rays from the sun. The absorption prevents the harmful rays from reaching the deeper layers of the skin.

They reflect the sun’s A and B ultraviolet rays, preventing skin damage. Sunblock protects against premature aging, reduces the risk of skin cancer, and prevents sunburn caused by exposure to UV rays. ~ Cancer.gov

Sunscreens don’t protect against all the UV rays and slathering your face with this product does not mean you can stay in the sun for longer. There are different variations of sunscreen, including:

1. Physical (mineral sunscreens): they contain minerals such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which scatter the sun’s rays before they penetrate the skin.
2. Chemical sunscreens: these chemical-based sunscreens contain avobenzone which absorbs the sun’s rays, preventing them from damaging the skin.

Does Sunscreen Make Your Skin Glow?

Yes, sunscreen can make your skin glow if you’re using one that contains ingredients that reflect light or if your sunscreen that contains a base of hydrating ingredients.

Sunscreens used to form a white cast on the skin, but today, skincare products have become more permeating, leaving your skin looking flawless and dewy.

Some sunscreens contain radiance-boosting ingredients such as niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and Vitamin B 5, which are widely known for their hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties. These ingredients can leave a glowy finish on the skin. ~ Rachel Nazarian, MD

Why Does Sunscreen Make My Skin Look Better?

Sunscreen has been linked with improved skin health thanks to its sun protection properties. It blocks the sun’s rays, preventing discoloration and dark spots, giving your skin an even tone and smooth appearance.

Sunblock also facilitates the breakdown of collagen, a protein that may result in fine lines and wrinkles.

Studies indicate that individuals who use sunscreen regularly are less likely to develop signs of aging compared to those who do not.

When you apply sunscreen regularly, the essential proteins of the skin are protected from sun damage, contributing to healthier-looking skin.

Best Sunscreens That Make Your Skin Glow:

1. CeraVe Tinted Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 30:

This mineral sunscreen contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, protecting against UVA and UVB rays. The tinted sunscreen is perfect for oily skin and blends seamlessly with all skin tones, helping you achieve the perfect glowy look.

• La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen SPF 100:

Anthelious Melt-in Sunscreen is oxybenzone-free and contains antioxidants, making it suitable for sensitive skin. These ingredients give your skin a dewy finish while shielding it against sun damage.

• Supergoop Glow Sunscreen SPF 40:

Glow sunscreen is formulated for all skin types. It primes the skin for makeup and results in the perfect dewy base for your makeup look. It contains hyaluronic acid and Vitamin B5, ingredients that boost hydration while preventing skin damage.

How to Apply Sunscreen to Make Your Skin Glow? Step-by-step guideline

Sunscreen is a must-have skincare product. For maximum protection from sun exposure, it’s important to apply sunscreen correctly. Here is a step-by-step guide on applying sunscreen to the skin:

Step 1: Use a Thick Layer

Apply at least a tablespoon of sunscreen on your face. Use about two ounces of the product on your body.

Applying a thick layer is the key to maximum protection; otherwise, you are just getting an SPF 15 out of an SPF 30 sunscreen.

Tip: Choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. If you live in humid climates, pick one that is water-resistant for maximum coverage. ~ American Academy of Dermatology

Step 2: Apply Sunscreen in Dots on Your Face

Instead of taking a giant blob of the product to apply to your face, use the dot method instead. Simply dot sunscreen to your face to aid quicker and even absorption.

Step 3: Sunscreen Before Moisturizer

This is a rookie skincare mistake that most people make. If you want maximum protection from the sun, apply sunscreen to a freshly cleansed face before you put on moisturizer.

Note: This is unnecessary if you use a mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

Step 4: Apply Sunscreen Before You Go Outdoors

This step is crucial when using a chemical sunscreen because it requires more time to penetrate the skin. So, apply sunscreen for at least 20 minutes before you step outside.

Tip: If you need immediate sun protection, use a mineral sunscreen that contains zinc and titanium dioxide.

Step 5: Re-apply Sunscreen Every 90 minutes

Most believe that applying sunscreen in the morning will last throughout the day. But that is far from the truth!

A formulator shared that sunscreen stops working when exposed to sunlight which makes it crucial to re-apply the product every 90 minutes.

Why Sunscreen Makes My Skin Dark?

If your sunscreen makes your skin dark, you probably use chemical sunscreen. It may stress out your skin which contributes to skin darkening.

On the other hand, sunscreen that contains hormonally active ingredients like oxybenzone may lead to hormonally induced skin darkening.

Did your skin get lighter after a few months/years of consistent sunscreen use? (Case Study)

If you’ve read this far, you’re probably clear about one thing: sunscreen does make your skin glow. But does sunscreen lighten the skin after consistent use?

Yes, it contributes to a lighter skin tone after regular use. The key is to stay out of the sun, wear sun-protective clothing (including hats, sleeved clothes, etc.), and apply sunscreen consistently.

According to a consistent sunscreen wearer, they started with NC20 in winter and NC25 skin tones in summer. After six months of SPF, their skin lightened to an NC15 in winter and an NC20 in summer.

FAQ:

Does applying sunscreen daily make your skin lighter or not?

Sunscreen lightens the skin by protecting it against damage from the sun and preventing hyperpigmentation, tanning, and discoloration.

What is the difference between sunblock and sunscreen?

Sunblock reflects the sun’s rays away from the skin, while sunscreen filters out the sun’s UV rays, preventing them from reaching the inner layers of your skin.

Is it reasonable to use sunscreen every day?

Yes, sunscreen must be used daily, especially if you stay outdoors for prolonged periods. It is needed for protection against UVA and UVB rays of the sun.

What is the benefit of sunscreen?

Sunscreen prevents skin damage from exposure to the sun. It protects against various types of skin cancers, premature aging, and hyperpigmentation caused by the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

Can I sleep with sunscreen on my face?

While sunscreen protects the skin against sun damage, it is not recommended to sleep with sunscreen on the face. It can clog your pores and cause your skin to break out more often.

Does sunscreen remove tan?

Sunscreen does not completely remove tan even though it lightens the skin. However, it protects against harmful UV rays that cause your skin to darken.

Verdict

Sunscreen is a must-have product in everyone’s skincare routine. Whether you’re using a chemical sunscreen or a mineral one, you are more vulnerable to skin cancer and sun damage without sunscreen. The best part is sunscreens provide a dewy, glowy, and natural base for your makeup, giving a flawless finished look!

I hope this article cleared your doubts about sunscreens, their uses, and whether they make your skin glow. Don’t forget your sunscreen the next time you go outdoors!