The summer grows hot this year. Especially if you are in the tropics. On 21st May, New Delhi, India recorded 48℃ as its highest temperature. While similar stories have been reported from other parts of the world as well. Which is why it becomes all the more necessary that we go for a solid skin protection this summer. Especially from the harmful UV rays of the sun. User reviews indicate that a sunscreen with aloe vera gel works best during harsh summers. This is so because while the active sun protecting agents in the sunscreen help neutralise the sun rays, aloe vera helps assist in repairing skin damages deep within. But, before you opt for your best aloe vera sunscreen you must find out what its SPF count is.

What is SPF?

SPF is short for Sun Protection Factor. The SPF of a sunscreen is determined by rigorous laboratory tests. SPF is an approximate measure of how well a sunscreen protects you from getting sunburnt. Some authorities also recognize it as the amount of time a sunscreen can keep you protected from solar energy (UVA and UVB rays). Which means that if you are using a sunscreen with an SPF of 22, the harsh effects of the sun rays would stand reduced in intensity by up to 22 times, i.e. the effects of the sun would remain only 1/22 times as harsh. Or, in other words, it will increase the time you can stay under the sun by up to 22 times. But, you must always keep in mind that a sunscreen must be reapplied every 90 minutes as its intensity would keep getting reduced due to sweat, dirt and pollution, or if you go for a swim.

What are UVA and UVB Rays?

UV stands for ultra violet. The sun’s UV rays can be segregated into UVA and UVB rays. About 95% of the sun rays that reach the earth are UVA rays. The rest are UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin, while the UVB rays damage only the top layer of the skin. Long-term exposure to UVA rays causes skin cancers, while the UVB rays cause sunburn.

Fairer skin absorbs more UV rays than darker skin. UV rays have more intensity during the afternoons than mornings and evenings. Cloudy days have lesser UV rays reaching the earth, although the clouds cannot completely block them out.

Why Do We Need Sunscreen?

Sunscreens are chemical blends and compositions that protect the skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Once applied over the skin, it protects the skin from all potential damages that may be caused by the sun.

Is Aloe Vera Good For Sun Protection?

Aloe vera is one of the most nourishing herbs gifted to us by Mother Nature. It has multiple vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that hugely benefit the skin and hair. So, can you use aloe vera as SPF? Well, the answer is no. Although aloe vera is extremely beneficial for the skin and hair, it cannot be used as a sunscreen individually. So, the best way to derive maximum skin benefits from aloe vera during the hottest summers would be by adding it to a sunscreen, or by simply buying a sunscreen that has aloe vera as its base ingredient.

Which Is the Best Sunscreen For the Hottest Summers?

The best moisturising sunscreen gel for the hottest summers would be the one that gives you broad spectrum sun protection, meaning that it should protect your skin from both the UVA as well as the UVB rays of the sun. And this must be clearly mentioned on the packaging itself. The USFDA (US Food & Drug Administration) recommends using sunscreens with SPF 15 and above. Some dermatologists suggest using a sunscreen with SPF around 30.

Why Bio Organic Ultra Repair Sun Guard Aloe Vera Gel?

User reviews indicate that Indus Valley Bio Organic Sun Guard Aloe Vera Gel is one of the most nourishing sunscreens currently available online. It offers protection against both the UVA and UVB rays of the sun. Its rich aloe vera base ensures that on regular usage it cannot just help exfoliate the dead skin cells, but also delay skin ageing (fine lines and wrinkles) and tighten up the skin keeping it young and glowing. Its antioxidants can help counter oxidative stress, quickly repairing skin damages from exposure to the sun. It can also assist in healing skin damages from minor bruises and cuts.

In case you have more queries regarding sunscreens, please feel free to chat up with our beauty and health experts with your comments below.