Do We Really Need Sunscreen Every Day?

Imagine looking up at a cloud-filled sky, thinking, “It’s okay to skip the sunscreen.” It seems fine and harmless, right? Wait, hold up your thoughts! Did you know that even when the sky is overcast, and it looks like it might rain, you can still be affected by UV rays? Yes, those pesky UV rays that make headlines for being a potential cause of skin cancer! Or is that just a myth? I mean, what’s next—are we going to say that vampires can’t get sunburned?

What is Sunscreen and Why Is It Important?

One of the greatest—and simplest—ways to safeguard the health and beauty of your skin at any age is to wear sunscreen. Regular use of sunscreen reduces the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and early aging. Broad-spectrum protection is crucial for defending your skin against UVA and UVB rays, and sunscreen lotions are designed to help prevent sunburn. UV rays cause wrinkles by disrupting the normal growth and function of your cells and by breaking down the collagen and elastin in your skin.

Depending on the UV filter chemicals in your sun protection solution, sunscreens might function in one of two ways. Chemical-based sunscreens, like homosalate, penetrate the epidermis' outermost layers and absorb UV rays before they have a chance to harm your skin’s cells. Mineral sun filters, often referred to as physical sun filters, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, form a barrier on the surface of your skin that blocks UV radiation.

Why Is Sunscreen Important?

One prominent justification for using sunscreen every day is to prevent skin cancer—and with good reason. According to a 2020 review, sunscreen may reduce the incidence of both melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers. Other advantages include:

• Delaying wrinkles and other signs of aging
• Diminishing scars
• Avoiding discoloration
• Defending against blue light

What is the Sun Protection Factor (SPF)?

The ability of a sunscreen to provide protection against a specific type of ultraviolet (UV) light known as UVB is indicated by its sun protection factor (SPF). Skin cancer and sunburns are caused by UVB radiation. There are also UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and cancer, and UVC rays, which do not penetrate the Earth's atmosphere. Both UVB and UVA radiation can be blocked with broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Which SPF level is better: 50 or 30? What’s the difference? Compared to SPF 30, which offers around 96.7% protection from UVB radiation, SPF 50 provides about 98% protection. No SPF protection level can offer 100%, and protection levels above SPF 50 only slightly increase coverage.

According to theory, people who wear sunscreen with an SPF of 50 can stay in the sun for fifty times longer than they would without it, while those using SPF 30 can remain outside for thirty times longer before getting sunburned. Of course, if you're planning to spend the day at the beach, you might just want to bring your umbrella as a backup plan—just in case!

What Kind of Sunscreen Should I Purchase?

Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 for daily use. If you spend a lot of time outside, select a product with an SPF of 60 or higher. Since most people don’t apply enough sunscreen, this higher SPF helps make up for the difference.

How Much Sunscreen Do I Need?

You will need around one ounce of sunscreen to protect your face, neck, arms, and legs. One ounce of sunscreen is about enough to fill your palm when squeezed into your hand. You’ll need roughly a half teaspoon to protect your face and neck.

Is It Better to Apply Sunscreen Before or After Other Products?

The sequence in which you apply your skincare products is irrelevant, as long as the sunscreen is broad-spectrum, water-resistant, and has at least SPF 30. For some people, applying to bare skin—before moisturizer or makeup—can be the most convenient method. Determine what suits your routine best.

Consult your dermatologist if layering specific products concerns you.

Do SPF-Containing Cosmetics Work?

Even with a high SPF, makeup alone is insufficient to protect your skin. You would need to apply a lot more makeup than usual to achieve the SPF listed on the label. Remember, it’s not just a cosmetic cover-up!

Do Soldiers Wear Sunscreen?

Yes! As part of its environmental casualty reduction guidance, the U.S. Army recognizes the importance of sun safety education. They provide specific recommendations and guidelines to ensure soldiers keep their supply of sunscreen stocked and apply it as needed, recommending that soldiers use sunscreen with an SPF rating of at least 15.

Does Having Darker Skin Affect the Recommended Use of Sunscreen?

It's a harmful myth that people of color don’t need sunscreen. According to a 2016 study, UV radiation is a major cause of skin cancer, and the mortality rate for skin malignancies is greater among people of color. The researchers suggested that one reason for this disparity is the lack of awareness about the dangers of solar exposure in these communities. Skin cancer is more likely to strike individuals with lighter skin tones, but all skin types are susceptible to skin cancer if they receive sufficient UV exposure.

Dietert adds that all populations can experience aging as a result of UV exposure.

How About Applying Sunscreen Indoors?

Although it may seem paradoxical, you should wear sunscreen every day—even if you spend most of your time indoors (yeah, we're talking to you, remote workers). You still receive a significant amount of sunlight through your windows and windshields unless you live in a cave or a submarine. Even fluorescent lights in our offices emit some UV light.

To Wrapping it Up...

Wearing sunscreen is essential for everyone, regardless of skin tone or whether you're indoors or outdoors. It acts as a shield against harmful UV rays that can lead to skin cancer, premature aging, and other skin issues. With the right SPF and application routine, you can enjoy the sun safely. Remember, when it comes to skincare, sunscreen is your best friend—just like that one friend who reminds you to bring an umbrella when the forecast says “partly cloudy”! So, make it a habit to apply sunscreen daily, because your skin deserves the best protection it can get. After all, nobody wants to be a “lobster” after a day in the sun!