Summer = Sun!
And lot’s of it! While you are getting excited about summer clothes, endless coolers, ice creams, and beaches, do not forget your summer BFF - sunscreen! Although you should never be stepping out of your house without it - be it summers or winters, you must pay special attention to it during peak sun-time!

It is key to preventing skin cancer, painful burns, fine lines and wrinkles, sun spots, and collagen depletion. You can add one thing to your summertime skincare routine that will help you amp up your battle against the sun and its harmful effects on the skin.

Meet Vit C.

A powerful antioxidant which can do wonders for your skin. It fights off the free radicals and helps in reversing the harmful side effects of sun exposure. Combining vitamin C serum and broad-spectrum sunscreens that protect well against UVA rays is more effective at neutralizing free radical damage from sun exposure than just using sunscreen alone. In addition, Vit C for skin protects it from any further photodamage from the harmful rays of the sun.

But unfortunately, some people are allergic to sunscreen. This is because sunscreens contain ingredients like oxybenzone and artificial fragrances that might cause an allergic reaction. Symptoms of a sunscreen allergy look similar to that of a sun allergy (also called sun poisoning), as well as a heat rash or sunburn. All of these conditions involve red, sometimes itchy, rashes.

If you are allergic to sunscreen, then this doesn’t mean you will have to face the sun without any protection. While you can do things like covering your skin (and avoiding direct sun exposure), using an umbrella or wearing a big-rimmed hat, you can also count on the following ingredients to offer you protection against the harmful rays of the sun:

Coconut oil

It is often considered a cure for many ailments, which makes it a favourite in all households. But what is interesting about this ingredient is that it works as a sunblock too. It provides an equivalent of SPF 10 and can block up to 20% of the sun rays falling on your body. This 20% can work for you if you stay in the sun for a short time and are not under very strong sunlight. You will have to reapply it often for it to keep on working. Coconut oil also has Vit E, which keeps the skin soft and healthy. It also decreases inflammation and smoothens blemishes.

Aloe vera gel

You must have heard about the miraculous properties of aloe vera to deal with sun-damaged skin. It is known to be effective in dealing with sunburns, inflammation and redness. But what you might not know is that it can also be used as a sunblock for the skin. Again, it can work as a block for a short period. But you can constantly reapply it. In addition, you can pair it with the best Vit C serum for hyperpigmentation and get rid of dark spots.

Shea butter

It is a great ingredient to use as it comes with Vit A and E, which benefit your skin in numerous ways. It also has antioxidants that protect your skin from radical damage. In addition, it is hydrating & prevents premature ageing. Though the SPF level of shea butter is very low (nearly 6 -10), it can be used on days you don’t plan on staying outside for a long period of time. Apply a thick layer of shea butter, and you will be good to go for a shorter span.

Sesame oil

Applying a layer of sesame oil before stepping out in the sun can prevent your skin from getting sunburns. It can block up to 30% of the sun’s harmful rays. It also has Vit E, which protects your skin further. Pairing it up with the best Vit C serum for the face will make your skin smooth and superb.

Almond oil and olive oil

They are not just good for food preparation or your hair. Almond oil and olive oil have vitamin E, which makes them great for the skin. Add natural ingredients to these two oils and your sunscreen is ready. Add the almond oil, olive oil, coconut water, and beeswax in a glass jar, and place in hot water. Add zinc oxide to the mix and stir. Homemade sunscreen is ready!

You can easily pair these ingredients with Vit C serum for the face and get the most out of your skincare routine. It needs to be placed a few minutes before you head out in the morning.

Additionally, if you think adding Vit C to your skincare will increase your skincare budget, then you are mistaken. The best Vit C serum price is not that high; trust us; it will be worthy of every rupee you spend.