Why Sunscreen is the Most Important Step in Your Skincare Routine?

11 September, 2024

4 Compelling Reasons Why You Should Wear Sunscreen Daily

1. Sunscreen Significantly Reduces the Risk of Skin Cancer

Using sunscreen has been proven to reduce the chances of developing skin cancer, a worrying issue that affects many.

2. Sunscreen is the Best Way to Prevent Signs of Aging

UV rays are known to cause skin aging, with signs such as rough skin, discoloration, and loss of skin firmness due to collagen breakdown. The aforementioned study also showed that daily sunscreen users did not exhibit increased skin aging over 4.5 years.

Sunscreen helps keep your skin looking youthful and healthy.

3. It Helps Maintain an Even Skin Tone

Sun exposure is the main cause of sunspots and uneven skin tone. Even if you’re using other anti-aging products, they won’t effectively prevent dark spots or discoloration unless you protect your skin with sunscreen.

An even skin tone boosts your confidence when stepping out.

4. Exfoliated Skin is More Prone to Sunburn if Not Protected by Sunscreen

If you’re using skincare products containing alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), your skin becomes more sensitive to UV rays, making sunscreen even more crucial. Even if you use these products at night, your skin remains sensitive the following day and beyond. Hence, if your skincare routine includes acids, it’s vital to use sunscreen for protection.

Sunscreen provides added protection for your skin after exfoliation.

4 Common Misconceptions About Daily Sunscreen Use

1. Sunscreen Feels Greasy and Has an Unpleasant Odor

Old formulas often gave sunscreen a bad reputation for feeling greasy on the skin. However, that’s no longer the case! There are now numerous products on the market, and innovations continue to be made to provide a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing experience. Choose a sunscreen that suits your skin type. If you experience greasiness, use oil-blotting paper after allowing the sunscreen to absorb for about 8 minutes.

Today’s sunscreens are designed to be non-greasy and odorless.

2. Sunscreen Leaves a White Cast on Darker Skin Tones

For those with darker skin tones, physical sunscreens can be an issue. These sunscreens use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to create a barrier between the sun’s rays and your skin, which can result in a white residue. Instead, try using chemical sunscreens as they employ organic compounds for protection and don’t leave a noticeable white cast.

There’s a sunscreen for every skin tone.

3. It’s Just One More Step in My Skincare Routine

While applying sunscreen is an additional step in your daily routine, it’s also the most important one. Protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays will also make all your other skincare products more effective, providing the best long-term results. So, don’t underestimate the power of sunscreen and skip it.

It’s the smallest yet most crucial step in your skincare routine.

4. I Work from Home, So I Don’t Need Sunscreen

If you sit near a window, go for walks, or run errands, you’re still exposed to the sun’s rays and need daily sunscreen. Unless you’re a true night owl who never ventures out during the day, consider making sunscreen a staple in your routine.

Protect your skin with sunscreen, even when indoors.

Sunscreen acts as a shield, guarding your skin against sun damage and skin conditions. Daily sunscreen application leads to healthier skin, enhances the absorption of other skincare products, prevents aging, and maintains an even skin tone. Whether you step out or not, make sunscreen your trusted ally in your skincare routine.

Frequently asked questions

Sunscreen is crucial as it protects your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause skin cancer and other skin damage, such as wrinkles and age spots. It is an essential step in your skincare routine as it provides a protective barrier, helping to prevent sunburn, skin aging, and other long-term skin issues.

It is recommended to apply sunscreen every day, regardless of the weather or season. For daily use, apply sunscreen as the last step in your morning skincare routine, after moisturizing and before makeup. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you are swimming or perspiring heavily, to ensure continuous protection.

It is recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 30. SPF 30 blocks 96.7% of UVB rays, providing adequate protection for most individuals. However, if you have fair skin or are more susceptible to sunburn, consider using a higher SPF, such as SPF 50, which blocks 98% of UVB rays.

The recommended amount is to apply one ounce (enough to fill a shot glass) of sunscreen to cover all exposed areas of the body. For your face, aim for a nickel-sized amount, ensuring full coverage, including often-missed areas like the neck, ears, and scalp if your hair is thin.

Choose a sunscreen that suits your skin type and is labeled ‘broad-spectrum’, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for water-resistant formulas if you plan to swim or engage in activities that make you sweat. Remember to apply sunscreen generously and reapply frequently to maintain protection, especially after swimming or toweling off.