How to Read Your Sunscreen Label Like a Pro – A Complete Guide by Human Element

You have probably never flipped your sunscreen around to read the fine print, have you? But we bet you never miss checking those calories on snacks. Isn't that very biased of you?

Run and grab your sunscreen because we are about to decode what those sunscreen ingredients actually mean, and more importantly, should they actually be there in the first place? And no, you do not need any prior knowledge or a PhD; all it takes is a few insider tips (that we are about to share with you).  

Let's start with the basics and the most talked-about term when it comes to sunscreen - SPF!

SPF

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and you will find this in every other sunscreen. It measures protection against UVB rays, the ones that cause burns and tan lines. Now, coming down to the SPF 30 and SPF 50 argument. Most dermatologists agree that SPF 30 and above is ideal for daily use. But if you’re outdoors often (or living under India’s glorious sunshine), SPF 50 is your best friend.

But SPF 50 doesn’t mean you are invincible; it just means you are getting roughly 50 times more protection than bare skin.

Look For Broad Spectrum

Your SPF only protects you from the UVB rays. You still need protection from the UVA rays, and that's where broad-spectrum comes in. It protects from both UVA and UVB rays. But wait... what actually are these rays?

• UVB = Burns your skin (think redness, sunburn, tan).
• UVA = Ages your skin (think fine lines, wrinkles, dullness).

While damage by UVB rays can often be spotted instantly, UVA does not (and that's scary). UVA is that slow poison that damages your skin slowly, without you even realizing it. Without broad-spectrum coverage, you might protect yourself from a sunburn but not from long-term damage. You need to ensure that your sunscreen has it!

Top Sunscreen Ingredients You Should Know About

Now let’s talk sunscreen ingredients. This is where sunscreen lebels can look intimidating, but once you know what to look for, it’s easy to separate the stars from the drama.

There are two main types:

1. Chemical Sunscreens –

• They absorb UV rays and convert them into heat.
• Common filters include Avobenzone, Oxybenzone, Octocrylene, and Homosalate.

2. Mineral Sunscreens –

• They reflect UV rays like tiny mirrors on your skin.
• Look for Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide — the go-to ingredients for sensitive skin.

If your skin is oily or acne-prone, gel-based chemical sunscreens (like ours) feel feather-light and leave no white cast. For dry or reactive skin, mineral formulas work beautifully, offering calm, cushiony protection.

What To Avoid?

Here’s the truth: not everything that protects you is good for you. Some harmful ingredients in sunscreen can irritate your skin or harm marine life.

Avoid these:

• Oxybenzone & Octinoxate – Known to cause irritation and coral bleaching.
• Fragrance or Alcohol – Can trigger breakouts or dryness, especially for sensitive skin.
• Parabens – A big no-no if you want a cleaner, gentler skincare routine.

If you spot these terms on your sunscreen, run for your life, my friend, and get a new sunscreen!

Don't Skip The PA Rating

You’ll often see “PA+” or “PA+++” on sunscreen lebels. This tells you how much protection you’re getting from UVA rays.

• PA+ = Some protection
• PA++ = Moderate
• PA+++ or PA++++ = High to very high protection

If your sunscreen label doesn’t have a PA rating, it might not offer complete UVA defense, and that means photoaging could sneak up on you. Always pick something with PA+++ or higher.

Texture & Finish

You know how some sunscreens feel greasy or leave a ghostly white cast? That’s usually due to heavy formulas or harmful ingredients in sunscreen.

Modern sunscreens, like Human Element’s SilkyVeil SPF 50 Gel Sunscreen, use advanced micro-formulations that blend seamlessly, feel like a serum, and still deliver powerful protection.

If you have oily skin, go for a matte gel formula that absorbs quickly. For dry skin, opt for a hydrating sunscreen with moisturizing agents like hyaluronic acid or ceramides.

Treat sunscreen like your skincare, not just a shield!

Don't Miss This

Even the best sunscreen loses power over time. Dermatologists recommend reapplying every 2–3 hours, especially if you’re outdoors, sweating, or near water.

Carry a travel-size sunscreen in your bag or car, because reapplying is the real secret to staying protected all day.

Our Label Tells A Story

When you pick up a Human Element sunscreen, you’re not just buying protection; you’re buying peace of mind. Every label is thoughtfully designed to be transparent, informative, and science-backed.

No hidden nasties. No misleading claims. Just honest skincare that works with your skin, not against it.

So next time you are shopping for sunscreen, flip that bottle over and take a closer look. You will see more than just sunscreen ingredients; you’ll see intention, technology, and care.

Because glowing skin starts with smart protection, and when it comes to sun defense, the label never lies.