Sunscreen is often associated with going to the beach or the hottest of sunny days. Most people see it as a protective layer for the days you know your skin will have extra long exposure to the sun. 

But, we should actually be wearing sunscreen every day – no matter your complexion or if it’s cloudy out. Here’s why. 

Sunscreen everyday

Sunscreen is not only to avoid sunburn and damage in the summery months. The sun may not seem harsh on cloudy days, but without sunscreen, your skin is still at risk of all sorts of things like skin cancer, premature ageing and more. Even snow can increase your risk of sun damage and exposure. It reflects up to 80% of ultraviolet (UV) rays. 

The year-round preventive health measure dates back to ancient Egypt. Rice bran extract and jasmine were used to safeguard skin from the sun. The first commercial sunscreen was invented in 1936. Chemist’s continued to improve the formula, by making it water-resistant and adding it to cosmetics and beauty products.

Protect your skin from UV Rays

The ozone layer is depleting. Ozone depletion consists of two events, assumed to be related, observed since the late 1970s: a steady lowering of about four per cent in the total amount of ozone in Earth’s atmosphere and a much larger springtime decrease in stratospheric ozone around Earth’s polar regions. The latter phenomenon is known as the ozone hole, Wikipedia explains. 

Because of this, the risk of sun damage from harmful UV rays has increased. Sunscreen helps to block the rays and diminishes the chance of sunburn. 

Doctors recommend applying sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of a minimum of 15 every day. Some doctors suggest nothing below 30 for full-body coverage. Always discuss options with your doctor before making any decisions of what to use on your skin, especially for a prolonged period of time. 

Dr Michael Kurzman from General and Cosmetic Dermatology says that UV rays are always present. They are the leading cause of skin cancer and sun damage. Clouds can’t block UV Rays, which is why sunscreen is so significant. 

Broad-spectrum sunscreens can protect you from ultraviolet-A rays (UVA) and ultraviolet-B rays (UVB). UVA have a longer wavelength than UVB, which makes it closer in size to visible violet light.

Do you need to wear sunscreen inside?

Some experts think so. According to NBC News, Ultraviolet A rays, which can cause signs of ageing like loss of elasticity and wrinkles, “can penetrate windows and cloud cover,” according to the nonprofit Skin Cancer Foundation. Unfortunately, not all windows are treated with protection from the sun’s harsh rays. Unless you’re in a windowless room, you may want to consider slathering on SPF.

Lower your risk of skin cancer

Skin cancer is very common, affecting at least one million people every year. Most have been diagnosed with melanomas of the skin. Some of the cases are fatal. Melanoma develops in your cells, and these cells form melanin. Primarily, melanoma develops in your back, legs, arms and face.  

It can occur in any part of your body – even body parts that aren’t exposed to too much sun, such as the soles of your feet, palms of your hands and fingernail beds. Hidden melanomas are common in people with dark skin. If you have fair skin, you are more likely to develop skin cancer because of sun exposure, because you have less of the protective pigment known as melanin.

If your hair is red, you have a higher chance of developing skin cancer. Why? In 2013, researchers discovered the MC1R gene mutation. It creates red hair and fair skin. The mutation promotes a genetic propensity towards cancers, especially when exposed to UV radiation.

You can half your risk of contracting skin cancers if you apply sunscreen daily. 

Prevent premature ageing 

Sun damage ages your skin. Too much sun exposure can result in a thick, leathery look, as well as discolouration and collagen breakdown. This encourages prominent facial lines, sagging and wrinkles. 

According to studies, people younger than 55 – who apply sunscreen regularly – have 24% less of a chance of showing ageing signs than those who don’t use sunscreen each day. This is relevant to every skin type. 

Even skin tone

Sunscreen helps to maintain an even skin tone. It prevents discolouration and dark spots from too much sun exposure. 

Other ways to prevent skin cancer and ageing

Besides wearing sunscreen each day, consider wearing protective clothing. The clothing must cover your arms and legs. A hat and sunglasses help too. 

Stay out of the in the middle of the day. The sun’s rays are most powerful between 10 am and 4 pm. 

Avoid tanning beds, as they increase your chance of getting skin cancer. 

Familiarise yourself with your skin. It makes it easier to notice any unusual changes. Examine your skin for new skin growths, freckles, bumps and birthmarks. 

Prioritise sunscreen

Sunscreen should always be a priority. It may seem inconvenient to apply every single day, but you will be grateful in the long run. 

Being outside in the sunshine is a good time. It is essential to have fun, but it is even more important to protect yourself with sunscreen. 

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