Should you wear sunscreen everyday?
Short answer: yes! We all love a sunny day, but the sun’s rays can be harmful, no matter your exposure time. Even on a cloudy day or when indoors, sun protection should be a non-negotiable part of your daily routine. Using a natural daily moisturiser that contains SPF can save you time while ensuring that your skin gets the protection it deserves.
Understanding sunscreen use
Debunking sunscreen myths
Contrary to popular belief, sunscreen usage isn’t limited to beach days or the summer months. Sun damage can occur all year, even when you’re indoors. A reef safe sunscreen, for example, protects not only against ultraviolet (UV) rays but also defends your skin from blue light emitted by digital screens.
There’s also the myth that sunscreens are the cause of acne, which deters many individuals from incorporating sunscreen into their daily skincare routine. And that myth about sunscreen causing your makeup to look cakey? Well, it’s just a myth. The right sunscreen won’t cause breakouts, and it sits perfectly under makeup.
Setting the stage for daily usage
To make sunscreen usage a habit, integrate it seamlessly into your skincare regimen. Opt for a non-greasy, lightweight formula like the Zinc Stick Clear that won’t interfere with other skincare or beauty products.
You also do not need to compromise the health of your skin or the health of the planet for sun protection. With carefully chosen ingredients, sunscreen can support your skin’s health and contribute to a more sustainable world.
The impact of UV rays
The risks of skin cancer
When we bask in the sun, it’s hard to imagine that the invisible UV rays it emits are a significant driving force behind skin cancer.
Sunlight comprises UVA and UVB rays, both of which differ in intensity but are equally harmful. Chronic exposure to these rays is linked to both types of skin cancer – melanoma and non-melanoma. While the former is aggressive and can be fatal, the latter, too, is not to be underestimated as it can severely impact one’s quality of life.
The case of premature ageing
Everyone desires youthful, radiant skin. But the harsh irony is that the sun’s rays, while necessary for our well-being, can accelerate the ageing process. UV rays break down collagen, the structural protein essential for firm and healthy skin. They also trigger the development of wrinkles, age spots, and fine lines, robbing the skin of its vitality much before age catches up.
Unseen skin damages
UV rays’ additional deleterious effects extend beyond immediate burns and superficial tans. Prolonged sun exposure can mutate skin cells, causing scaly patches, altering pigmentation, and even leading to vision problems. Think of UV Ray damage like a slow and silent vandal. Its harms may not be instantly visible, but they accumulate over time and are remarkably detrimental.
Why you should wear sunscreen every day
Indoor and cloudy day exposure
Contrary to common belief, even indoors or on cloud-filled rainy days, harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can burrow their way through the clouds and glass windows. They can reach your skin and potentially lead to wrinkles and, in more extreme cases, skin cancer. Indoor exposure is something to consider. Remember, digital screens emit blue light, which stands under suspicion of prematurely ageing the skin.
Benefits for sensitive skin
Packed with caring properties, sunscreen is sensitive skin’s best friend. When it comes to mitigating the risks of skin sensitivity, sunscreen is a shield. Not only does it protect against UV rays, but quality sunscreens also come filled with antioxidants and hydrating ingredients. These boosters fortify your skin’s barrier, replenish hydration levels, and keep your skin in optimal health.
Convenience in daily routines
Incorporating sunscreen into your daily skincare regime adds convenience in multiple ways. With many sunscreens now doubling as moisturisers and even makeup bases, it couldn’t be easier to give your skin the protection it deserves. It’s an easy step toward achieving healthier, more sustainable beauty habits and skin routines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does sunscreen block vitamin D production?
Indeed, sunscreen plays a role in vitamin D production, but it doesn’t entirely block it. While sunscreen intercepts UVB rays that trigger vitamin D synthesis in your skin, it doesn’t eliminate this process entirely. Even with sunscreen, your skin can still get some vitamin D. Other important vitamin D sources include nutritious foods like fortified dairy products, which allow you to meet your daily requirements.
How much sunscreen is needed for effective protection?
Sunscreen is your skin’s guardian and needs to be applied appropriately for effective protection. Most of us undervalue the amount required. A shot glass full, approximately one ounce, is what’s advisable for covering all exposed areas of the body. Note that you need to apply sunscreen generously and evenly, and more importantly, reapply every two hours and after sweating or swimming.
Can I skip sunscreen if my makeup has SPF?
While makeup with SPF certainly provides an added layer of defence, it should not replace your sunscreen. Even the highest SPF makeup might not offer the same comprehensive protection as a separate sunscreen. Also, most people do not apply makeup in an amount that would create adequate sun protection.
Key Points to Remember
-
Essential Practice: Sun protection is recommended daily, indoors and outdoors, to help guard against UV rays and blue light exposure.
-
Myth Correction: Common beliefs that sunscreen causes acne or affects makeup negatively are challenged, encouraging its regular application.
-
Routine Adaptation: Incorporating sunscreen into daily skin care routines with non-greasy, lightweight formulas can aid in skin protection.
-
Risk Mitigation: Regular use of sunscreen may reduce the risk of skin cancer by offering a barrier against harmful UV rays.
-
Ageing Delay: Applying sunscreen can help delay signs of premature ageing by protecting the skin from UV-induced collagen breakdown.
-
Enhanced Care: Sunscreen can be beneficial for sensitive skin, providing a layer of protection along with potential antioxidants and hydration.
-
Simplified Routine: Sunscreens designed as moisturisers or makeup bases can facilitate a more streamlined skincare and beauty regimen.
Little Urchin draws inspiration from nature and is driven by a mission to promote healthier lifestyles and a more sustainable world. Join us as we boost knowledge, nurture care, and inspire actions aimed at fostering vitality and longevity for all.
