The sun in Pakistan doesn’t play around. As soon as summer arrives, the heat becomes relentless, and stepping outside without protection feels like asking for trouble. The harsh UV rays can take a serious toll on your skin. Sunburns, premature aging, and even long-term skin damage are just some of the effects of constant exposure to the sun.
A good sunscreen isn’t an option it’s a necessity. But with so many options available, how do you pick the right one? Not all sunscreens are made the same, and choosing the wrong one can leave your skin feeling greasy, irritated, or even unprotected. To help you make the best choice, here’s everything you need to know about picking the perfect sunscreen for the extreme Pakistani summer.
Understand Your Skin Type
Before you buy a sunscreen, you need to know your skin type. Using the wrong product can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, or excessive dryness. Here’s how to choose based on your skin type:
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Oily Skin: Look for lightweight, non-greasy, and oil-free sunscreens. Gel-based or mattifying sunscreens work best to prevent excess shine.
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Dry Skin: Choose a hydrating sunscreen with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid to keep your skin soft and comfortable.
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Sensitive or Acne-Prone Skin: Go for a 100% mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide, as it’s gentle and less likely to cause irritation.
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Normal Skin: You have more flexibility just make sure it’s broad-spectrum and suits your daily routine.
Always Go for Broad-Spectrum Protection
Not all sunscreens protect against both types of harmful UV rays. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and cause wrinkles, sagging, and long-term damage. UVB rays affect the surface, leading to sunburns and skin discoloration.
A sunscreen labeled broad-spectrum shields you from both UVA and UVB rays, offering complete protection. Without it, your skin remains vulnerable to sun damage even if you don’t get sunburned.
SPF Matters—But More Isn’t Always Better
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) determines how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays. Many people assume that a higher SPF means double the protection, but that’s not exactly how it works.
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SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays.
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SPF 50 blocks about 98% of UVB rays.
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SPF 60 blocks about 98.5% of UVB rays, offering slightly more protection than SPF 50.
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SPF 100 in gel formulas can be a great option for those looking for high protection without the heavy feel
For daily use, an SPF of 30 to 50 is ideal..
Check the PA Rating for UVA Protection
While SPF measures protection from UVB rays, PA ratings indicate how well a sunscreen shields against UVA rays.
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PA+ = Some protection
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PA++ = Moderate protection
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PA+++ = High protection
Since Pakistan’s sun exposure is intense, a PA+++ rating is the best choice to prevent skin aging and pigmentation.
Water-Resistant Sunscreen is a Must
Sweat is unavoidable in summer, and if your sunscreen isn’t water-resistant, it will wear off quickly. This is especially important if you’re spending time at the beach or engaging in outdoor activities. However, no sunscreen is completely waterproof, so reapplication is necessary every two hours or after sweating.
Choose a Well-Balanced Formula
A good sunscreen isn’t just about sun protection it should also be gentle on your skin while providing the right balance of ingredients to keep your skin comfortable. Many advanced sunscreen formulations are carefully designed to be non-irritating while ensuring long-lasting protection.
For those with sensitive skin, mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are a great choice as they sit on top of the skin and provide a physical barrier against harmful rays.
Meanwhile, modern sunscreen formulas also include ingredients that help control excess oil and ensure a lightweight, non-greasy feel. This is especially useful in hot and humid weather, where traditional sunscreens may feel heavy. Gel-based sunscreens with SPF 100 are an excellent option for those seeking high protection while maintaining a breathable, fresh finish.
When choosing a sunscreen, the key is to opt for a well-balanced formulation that provides broad-spectrum protection, is non-comedogenic, and works with your skin type for comfortable all-day wear.
Application Matters: Use Enough and Reapply
Even the best sunscreen won’t work if you don’t apply enough. Most people don’t use nearly as much as they should. To get full protection:
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Apply two full tablespoons to cover all exposed areas if you’re in swimwear.
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Don’t forget spots like ears, neck, hands, and feet.
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If using a spray sunscreen, make sure to spread it evenly with your hands.
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Reapply every two hours, especially after sweating or swimming.
Sunglasses and Protective Clothing Help Too
While sunscreen is essential, it’s not the only defense against the sun. Pair it with UV-protective sunglasses to shield your eyes and a wide-brimmed hat to cover your face. If possible, wear lightweight, long-sleeved clothing when out for extended periods.
Common Sunscreen Mistakes to Avoid
Even if you choose the right sunscreen, simple mistakes can reduce its effectiveness. Here are a few common ones:
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Applying too little: Not using enough sunscreen leaves your skin exposed.
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Skipping reapplication: Sunscreen fades over time, especially in extreme heat.
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Only apply in sunny weather: UV rays penetrate clouds, so sunscreen is needed even on cloudy days.
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Relying only on makeup with SPF: Most foundations with SPF don’t provide enough coverage. Use a proper sunscreen underneath.
The Final Word
A scorching Pakistani summer demands more than just an ordinary sunscreen it requires one that truly protects your skin. The right sunscreen should match your skin type, offer broad-spectrum coverage, have an SPF of at least 30, and come with a high PA rating. Water resistance and proper application make all the difference in ensuring full protection.
Your skin is exposed to the sun every single day, whether you realize it or not. Protecting it now means avoiding premature aging, sunburns, and long-term damage. So, find the right sunscreen, use it daily, and enjoy the summer without worrying about the sun’s harsh effects.
