5 Incredible Benefits Of Using Sunscreen Every Day

Every morning, you cleanse, tone, and moisturise your skin to prep it for the day. But the most important skincare step slips through your skincare routine amidst the morning hustle- sun protection!

Sun rays sneak into your daily life as you commute to the office, run errands, or sit by a large window in your home. They find you wherever you go, posing a significant risk to your skin health in the long run when it is left unprotected.

That's why applying sunscreen every day has become non-negotiable. And it isn't just for beach days or tropical vacations; it's a vital step in your daily skincare regimen, all around the year. 

In this post, we are sharing the key benefits of using sunscreen every day and debunking some common myths that surround them to help you adopt this simple yet important SPF habit.

The Benefits Of Using Sunscreen Everyday:

1. Protects Against Harmful UV Rays:
   When ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun penetrates our skin, it interacts with the DNA of our skin cells, generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) within skin cells. Also known as free radicals, these unstable molecules can inflict oxidative stress on a cellular level, damaging the DNA, proteins, and lipids.
   Sunscreen forms a protective barrier on the skin's surface to absorb and reflect the UV rays, preventing them from penetrating the deeper layers of the skin where it can cause significant damage.

2. Prevents Premature Aging:
   Studies have shown that people who make sunscreen a regular part of their skincare routine tend to have fewer wrinkles and age spots than those who skip it. Here’s why using sunscreen has antiageing benefits for the skin-Collagen and elastin fibres are the key structural proteins that keep your skin firm and bouncy. UV damage can break down these proteins leading to saggy skin and the formation of wrinkles and fine lines.
   So using sunscreen daily should be a priority if want to preserve your skin's youthfulness glow and fight early signs of skin ageing.
   
   
3. Reduces Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots:
   Spending too much time in the sun without sunscreen can cause those pesky dark spots and sun tan to appear on your skin. It's all caused by the overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for giving your skin its colour.
   Our skin produces extra melanin when exposed to the sun which leads to tanning. Sun exposure can also lead to a skin condition called melasma where your skin develops uneven brown patches. So wearing sunscreen is important to fade uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation and prevent new dark spots from forming.
   
   
4. Improves Skin Barrier Function:
   Our skin's barrier function plays a important role in protecting itself against environmental stressors, pathogens, and moisture loss. When the barrier is weakened, it heightens your skin’s sensitivity to the sun leading to irritation and redness.
   By slathering on some SPF, you're giving your skin an extra layer of protection against UV damage. It will form a shield to keep moisture locked in and those harmful UV rays out, helping your skin stay strong and resilient.
   
   
5. Prevents Sunburn:
   Sunburn is a visible sign of UV damage which causes redness, pain, swelling, and peeling of the skin. UVB rays can penetrate the clouds and windows and burn your skin throughout the year. So applying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is essential to block UVB radiation, which is responsible for burning the outermost layers of the skin.
   
   
6. Protects Sensitive Skin
   Many skin conditions like rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis can worsen in the sun. Even certain medications and skin care products can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the skin, increasing the risk of sunburns, inflammation, and hyperpigmentation.
   Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, especially one with mineral UV filters, will minimise redness and irritation triggered by sun exposure so you can enjoy outdoor activities in peace.

Common Sunscreen Myths Busted

Myth: People with darker skin tones don't need sunscreen.

Fact: While darker skin tones have some natural defence against UVB radiation due to higher melanin levels and are less likely to get sunburns, they are still susceptible to UVA damage. So wearing sunscreen is important to protect their skin against photodamage.

Myth: Sunscreen is only necessary during summer.

Fact: UV rays can penetrate through clouds and cause damage to the skin even on overcast or cloudy days. So it's essential to wear sunscreen every day, in all seasons, to protect your skin from sunburn, premature ageing, and sun tan.

Myth: You only need to apply sunscreen once a day.

Fact: Sunscreen wears off within a few hours, especially with sweating, swimming, or touching the face. To maintain protection throughout the day, it's essential to reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours, or more frequently if you are out in the sun.

Myth: Higher SPF sunscreen provides significantly more protection.

Fact: While higher SPF sunscreens(like SPF 100) offer more protection against UVB rays, they don’t provide proportionally higher protection. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. No sunscreen can block 100% UV rays, so it's important to reapply sunscreen at regular intervals and use other sun protection measures.

Myth: Sunscreen prevents vitamin D production.

Fact: While sunscreen can lower vitamin D synthesis in the skin by blocking UVB rays, most people don’t reapply sunscreen enough to block all UVB rays. And there is no evidence to suggest daily use of sunscreen can cause a Vitamin D deficiency. The benefits of protecting your skin from sun damage outweigh the risks of vitamin D deficiency, which can be easily addressed through supplements.

Myth: Sunscreen is only necessary for outdoor activities.

Fact: UV rays can penetrate through windows and cause skin damage even when you are indoors. Whether you're working near a window, driving in your car, or spending time outdoors, sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from sun damage and reducing suntans.

Myth: Mineral sunscreen leaves a white cast.

Fact: While older mineral sunscreens did leave a white cast on the skin, new-age formulations blend well into the skin without making your skin look ashy making it suitable even for darker skin tones. 

Which Sunscreen Is Best For Your Skin?

When it comes to selecting a sunscreen, it's essential to choose a formula that suits your skin type and provides the best sun protection. Here are some tips for finding the perfect sunscreen:

• Look for a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection by shielding your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. 
• Opt for a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to get adequate protection against daily sun exposure. 
• Choose a sunscreen that feels lightweight and non-greasy on your skin, making it comfortable to wear daily. 
• If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, pick a mineral sunscreen formula that is safer and gentler on the skin.

By providing protection against UV rays, preventing premature ageing, and maintaining an even skin tone, sunscreen offers numerous benefits for your skin's health and vitality. Now that you understand its importance, it's time to make it a regular part of your skincare regimen. 

The Perfect Family-Friendly Sunscreen From Juicy Chemistry

Our Moisturising Mineral Sunscreen is a certified organic sunscreen with SPF 40 PA++++ broad spectrum protection. This pure mineral sunscreen is suitable for all skin types and provides adequate protection all year round.

Made with Ecocert-approved Titanium dioxide, this pure mineral sunscreen leaves no white cast and provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays. It also contains a blend of phytonutrients that will soothe irritated skin and help fight signs of ageing.

Try this sheer, nourishing formula infused with squalane and aloe vera to keep your skin hydrated and moisturised throughout the day without feeling heavy. Shop here.

FAQs

What is the right age to start using sunscreen every day?

It's recommended to use sunscreen daily from a young age as children too have sensitive skin that is susceptible to sun damage. However, it's never too late to adopt the SPF habit as people of all ages can benefit from sunscreen. 

Does mineral sunscreen suit all skin types?

Yes, mineral sunscreens are quite gentle and least likely to irritate the skin making them suitable for all skin types and ages, including young kids and pregnant women.