Dr Mubashir Daha, Dermatologist PIMS Islamabad
Living in Islamabad, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant urban life, means that we often find ourselves outdoors, exposed to the sun’s rays. While soaking up the sun can feel refreshing, especially in Islamabad’s moderate climate, it’s essential to protect your skin from harmful UV radiation. Sunscreen plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin, preventing premature aging, and reducing the risk of pigmentation and skin cancer.
Islamabad experiences long sunny days for much of the year, making sunscreen more than just an accessory it’s a necessity. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is one of the leading causes of skin damage. Without sunscreen, prolonged exposure to the sun’s UVA and UVB rays can lead to sunburns, dark spots, and wrinkles. Even during Islamabad’s cooler months, UV rays can penetrate the clouds, causing harm.
Exposure to UV rays without protection accelerates the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, making your skin look older than it is. Sunscreen helps prevent photoaging, keeping your skin youthful and vibrant. Islamabad’s diverse weather conditions can trigger hyperpigmentation issues, especially for people with sensitive skin. Sunscreen prevents these dark patches caused by sun exposure. Skin cancer, particularly melanoma, can be triggered by excessive UV exposure. Daily sunscreen reduces this risk by acting as a shield between your skin and harmful radiation.
Not all sunscreens are created equal, and it’s essential to choose one that suits your skin type to ensure maximum protection. Some people have their natural skin oily or acne-prone. Oily skin can become more pronounced in a city like Islamabad, where the humidity levels fluctuate, especially during the monsoon season. They should use Sebum Control sunscreen which is gel-based or water-based. These are lightweight, non-greasy, and won’t clog pores. Look for non-Comedogenic sunscreen that won’t cause breakouts. A broad-spectrum SPF 40 or higher is good enough for protecting against both UVA and UVB rays for oily skin people using sebum control sunscreen.
Some people have their natural skin dry which becomes drier during Islamabad’s colder months. If your skin feels tight and flaky. Choose a Moisturizing Sunscreen. Look for products that have hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin or aloe Vera. Opt for Cream-Based Formulas, these tend to provide extra hydration and are better for dry skin. SPF recommendation is 60 and above is ideal, especially during sunny winter days.
If your skin easily reacts to products or gets irritated under the sun, pick a physical (mineral) sunscreen, these contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and are less likely to irritate sensitive skin. Go for sunscreens, labeled fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. SPF Recommendation is at least 60 or above is sufficient for daily protection.
Combination skin can be tricky, as some areas may be oily while others are dry. For those living in Islamabad, where weather conditions fluctuate, you need a balanced sunscreen. Use a lightweight, lotion-based sunscreen. This provides hydration without making oily areas greasy. Look for matte finish, this will keep your skin shine-free, especially in Islamabad’s warmer months. SPF recommendation is 60 or higher for balanced protection.
There are few myths regarding sunscreen like, “it is only necessary during summer, darker skin people don’t need sunscreen and waterproof sunscreens don’t need reapplication” but in reality, Islamabad gets sun year-round, making sunscreen a daily essential and melanin does offer some protection but sunscreen is still necessary for all skin tones to prevent sun damage and premature aging, even if your sunscreen is waterproof, it still needs to be reapplied every two to three hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating and spending more time in sun.
Concluding the whole discussion, living in Islamabad comes with its own unique set of skincare challenges, but with the right sunscreen, you can protect your skin from the harsh effects of UV rays. Choose a sunscreen that is best suited for your skin type and make sunscreen a non-negotiable part of your daily skincare routine. Your skin will thank you in the long run
