Water Based Sunscreen: Summer Essential 101

This hot summer weather calls for high-protection sunscreen. While protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is not limited to any one particular weather, the usage of sunscreen definitely goes up in the summer. But in this hot and humid weather, who wants that sticky, greasy and oily feeling on their skin? One should look for a sunscreen that is lightweight, non-sticky, and does not suffocate the pores. There are so many sunscreens available on the market, and it can be confusing as to which one to use. Among the many options available, one that stands out in summer is water based sunscreen. In this blog, we will delve into the world of water based sunscreens, exploring their benefits and how to incorporate them into your skincare routine. 

Understanding water based sunscreens

As the name suggests, water based sunscreens are formulated with water as their primary ingredient, replacing oils and emollients found in your regular sunscreen. The watery base allows the sunscreen to have a fluid texture, which is quick-absorbing and feels weightless on the skin. This sunscreen is ideal for summer as it is non-sticky, non-oily and does not leave any white cast. Those with oily or acne-prone skin often prefer these sunscreens due to their non-greasy nature.

While water is the primary ingredient for the sunscreen base, many water based sunscreens have ingredients that provide additional benefits, too. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which hydrates and plumps the skin; vitamin C and Vitamin E, which are powerful antioxidants that help against free radical damage; and ceramide, which helps repair the skin barrier. These added ingredients help nourish the skin while protecting it from UV damage. 

Benefits of using water based sunscreen

  1. Lightweight: Water based sunscreens feel feather-like on the skin, making them ideal for everyday wear in this hot weather. 

  2. Quick absorbing: The fluid texture of the sunscreen allows it to soak in the skin very quickly, ensuring it does not feel sticky or heavy sitting on the skin.

  3. Non-greasy: Say goodbye to the sticky residue left behind by traditional sunscreens. Water-based formulas leave your skin feeling smooth. They come in a matte as well as a dewy finish. So you can choose according to your preference. 

  4. Suitable for all skin types: Water based sunscreen is one of those that suits all skin types. Whether you are someone with oily, dry, sensitive skin, water based sunscreen is gentle on every skin. 

Also Read: How To Apply Vitamin C Serum for Glowing Skin

Why are water based sunscreens essential for summer?

  1. Protection from harmful UV rays: Sun damage is the number one cause of premature ageing, sunburn and tanning. Sun damage can even cause skin cancer. Sunscreen is a must for protecting your skin against these UV rays. Water based sunscreen can help you protect your skin while being light and non-sticky.

  2. Sweat and water-resistant: Many water based sunscreens in the market nowadays are sweat and water-resistant, meaning that you can wear these on your beach vacations and even during your workout sessions. Enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about your sunscreen washing away. 

  3. Comfortable wear: Say Goodbye to that sticky, greasy feeling with new-age water based sunscreens. These feel comfortable on the skin even on extremely hot summer days, making them a summer essential. 

How to incorporate water based sunscreen in your skincare routine

  1. Start with a clean canvas: Start your skincare routine with a mild cleanser to clean your face. Use a cleanser that suits your skin type. Light Up Beauty’s Superfood Green juice brightening face cleanser is infused with superfoods like avocado, hemp, match, and parsley, which help nourish the skin while minimizing pores and purifying the skin. It is suitable for all skin types and is great for brightening dull and dry skin.

    If you are someone with acne-prone sensitive skin, look for ingredients that will help in reducing acne, like salicylic acid. Light Up Beauty’s Dewdrop Anti-acne hydrating face wash is infused with Butterfly Pea Flower and Blueberries.
    This helps reduce acne and excess sebum production while keeping the skin hydrated and nourished. 

  2. Moisturizer: After Cleaning, it's time to bring hydration back to the skin by using a good hydrating moisturizer. Use a moisturizer according to your skin type. Light Up Beauty’s Wave Hydrating Day cream is an ultra light moisturizer infused with 5% Squalane and 2% Niacinamide. It helps deeply moisturize the skin while reducing acne marks and scars. It is suitable for all skin types and is non comedogenic, so your skin won't feel suffocated after application. If you have dry skin or need extra hydration, you can also use a hydrating serum after the moisturizer.

    Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides to quench your skin’s thirst. Light Up Beauty’s Splash hydrating serum is infused with Ceramides, Butterfly Pea Flowers, and Pineapple, which help with hydration and nourishment. It helps in brightening the skin and brings out that youthful glow. 

  3. Sunscreen: SPF is a must in the morning routine. Look for sunscreen with SPF 50 or above for broad spectrum protection. Gold Rush Vitamin C sunscreen by Light Up Beauty has SPF 60 PA ++++ with Gold Standard Vitamin C and 1% Ceramide Complex, which not only protects your skin from UVA and UVB rays but the THD ascorbate, aka Gold Standard Vitamin C, also reduces pigmentation and dark spots. At the same time, the Ceramides help repair the damaged skin barrier and provide nourishment to the skin. It is India’s only sunscreen with the Gold Standard of Vitamin C, which is a more stable variant of Vitamin C that goes deeper into your epidermal layer and helps reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots while protecting your skin against harmful rays.

    advantages of vitamin c sunscreen

    Along with that, it has zero white casts and is a non-sticky formula, so it does not feel heavy or greasy on the skin. It gives a dewy finish with a broad spectrum of protection, perfect for Indian weather and skin. It is infused with THD, which is one of its kind in India. THD ascorbate is a much more stable form of Vitamin C, which helps reduce dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and early signs of ageing. It is a potent antioxidant which is even suitable for sensitive skin as it is not a direct acid. It is lightweight, non sticky and has zero white cast. It absorbs into the skin in just 3 seconds, making it perfect for Indian weather. The best part is that this International standard sunscreen is priced at just Rs 499. 

Reapply every 2 to 3 hours to ensure maximum protection.

Also Read: Sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin

Conclusion:

Water based sunscreens are not just limited to summers or hot days, but once you start using them, they become your all-year-round staple. With their lightweight texture and non-greasy finish, they are bound to win your heart. Water-based formulas are gaining popularity among skincare enthusiasts, and we are here to help. So whether you're lounging by the pool or running errands in the city, remember to slather on the sunscreen and protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Your skin will thank you for it!