The Importance of Sunscreen
Your Guide to Protecting Your Skin
We get it – sunscreen might not be the most glamorous step in your skincare routine, but trust us, it’s the most important. The sun’s UV rays can impact your skin more than you realize, so you should be wearing sunscreen daily to protect your precious skin. Here’s why you should wear sunscreen daily and some of our favorite product picks!
Dr. Sarah Allen, founder & CEO of Skin Clique, is passionate about sharing the significance of UV rays and why sunscreen is the MVP of your skincare routine with her patients. Watch the video below to hear from Dr. Allen herself.
Reasons You Should Wear Sunscreen Every Day
Sunscreen isn’t just for beach days and sunny skies. You should be wearing it every day, regardless of your weather or plans. Here’s why:
- Prevents sunburn: Sunscreen acts as a barrier of protection against harmful UV rays, preventing painful sunburns that lead to long-term skin damage.
- Lowers risk of skin cancer: Using sunscreen regularly reduces your risk of developing skin cancer, one of the most common forms of cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, studies show that having 5 or more sunburns doubles your risk for melanoma.
- Protects against premature aging: UV exposure accelerates skin aging, causing wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Daily sunscreen application helps prevent skin damage, allowing you to maintain youthful skin.
- Reduces skin discoloration: Sunscreen prevents the appearance of dark spots, also known as sunspots, and uneven skin tone to maintain radiant complexion.
Types of Sunscreen
Sunscreen comes in two main types: physical (mineral) and chemical. Although they are both effective in protecting your skin against sun exposure, they each offer unique benefits:
Physical sunscreen, also known as mineral sunscreen, creates a physical barrier on the skin to shield it from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Mineral sunscreen is usually the preferred option for sensitive skin.
Chemical sunscreen features ingredients that absorb UV rays before your skin can. It tends to apply smoother than mineral sunscreen since they are designed for absorption, making it more lightweight and better for sweating and water activities.
Choosing the Right SPF & Sunscreen for Your Skin
Picking the perfect sunscreen depends on your skin type and lifestyle. Medical professionals recommend using at least an SPF 30 sunscreen daily and reapplying every two hours for maximum protection.
Some of our favorite sunscreen products:
Everyday Sunscreen: Skin Clique Essential Mineral SPF 50+
Powder Sunscreen: Colorescience Brush-On Shield SPF 50
Tinted Sunscreen: Skin Clique Essential Tint SPF 50+
Sport Sunscreen: Colorescience Sport Stick SPF 50
Common Questions About Sunscreen
Does sunscreen expire?
Yes, sunscreen expires and loses effectiveness over time. Make sure you check the expiration date on the sunscreen bottle to ensure that it is effectively protecting your skin against sunburn and skin damage.
Does sunscreen prevent tanning?
Yes and no. Sunscreen blocks and absorbs UV rays, but it still allows a small amount to penetrate the skin, which may lead to a tan. However, prolonged or significant tanning increases the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. Therefore, it's essential to wear sunscreen consistently, even when sunbathing, to protect your skin.
How often should I reapply sunscreen?
Sunscreen is typically effective for about two hours after application. For optimal protection, it's important to reapply sunscreen regularly throughout the day, especially if you're swimming or sweating. These activities can wash sunscreen off, causing it to lose effectiveness, making frequent reapplication essential.
What SPF should I use?
When it comes to selecting the right SPF (Sun Protection Factor) for your sunscreen, medical professionals recommend using SPF 30 or higher for daily sun protection. If you plan to spend extended time outdoors, you should choose a higher SPF, such as SPF 50. SPF indicates how effectively sunscreen protects your skin from sunburn.
Sunscreen isn’t just a seasonal accessory, it’s a year-round necessity for healthy, glowing skin. By including sunscreen into your daily skincare routine, you protect your skin from sun damage, premature aging, and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Prioritize your skin health today for a more radiant tomorrow.
