Ah, sunshine — it's a bit of a love-hate relationship, isn't it? On one hand, it boosts our mood and gives a coveted sunkissed glow. 🌞But it can make us more vulnerable to aging, sunburns, and the risk of skin cancer.
So, should you wear sunscreen every day? Cloudy or sunny skies, those UV (ultraviolet) rays are always lurking. That makes SPF a year-round staple.
At Pour Moi Skincare, it’s our mission to empower you with the knowledge and tools to protect your skin, no matter the season or climate. So, let’s break down everything you need to know about SPF.
The Science Behind SPF
There are two types of UV rays: UVA, which causes long-term skin damage and aging, and UVB, which is the primary culprit behind sunburns.
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well a sunscreen blocks UV rays. The higher the SPF, the more solar energy it filters out, giving your skin stronger defense against sun damage [1].
SPF uses two main mechanisms to create an invisible shield against UV rays [2]:
- Chemical absorbers: Organic compounds, like avobenzone and oxybenzone, absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which your skin releases.
- Physical blockers: Mineral-based ingredients, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, sit on your skin's surface and physically reflect or scatter UV rays away from you.
Considering this, should you wear sunscreen everyday? Both chemical and physical sunscreens can offer broad-spectrum protection against the sun's harmful rays. The key is to find a formula you love and use it consistently.
Why Should You Wear Sunscreen Everyday? 5 Reasons
Beyond the obvious risk of sunburn, the sun's rays (along with pollution and the climate [3]), can cause a cascade of damage beneath your skin's surface.
Here’s how sunscreen keeps UV damage at bay:
1. Combats aging
Research shows sun exposure is a top cause of premature aging [4]. Sunscreen protects your skin’s vital proteins for a smoother, younger-looking complexion.
2. Lowers skin cancer risk
Daily sunscreen use significantly lowers your chances of getting skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form [5].
3. Evens out your skin tone
The sun can cause hyperpigmentation, leading to dark spots, uneven skin tone, and melasma [6]. Sunscreen helps prevent these unwanted blemishes, promoting a radiant, more even appearance.
4. Keeps skin hydrated
The sun's rays suck moisture from your skin, leaving it feeling tight, dry, and flaky. SPF helps it preserve its natural moisture levels and prevent skin dehydration.
5. Reduces inflammation
UV exposure triggers inflammation in the skin, resulting in redness, irritation, and even breakouts [7]. Sunscreen helps calm the skin and promotes a clearer, more balanced complexion.
Now that you know why SPF is a skincare essential, how do you harness its full potential?
7 Tips to Shield Skin from the Sun
Protecting your skin from the sun's rays isn't just about slapping on some SPF and calling it a day. It's a multi-faceted approach that involves smart habits and savvy product choices.
Here are 7 expert tips to keep your complexion radiant and protected all year round:
1. Make SPF a non-negotiable
It’s tempting to think that rainy days or inclement weather don’t require SPF, but the sun rays are ever-present. Opt for a broad-spectrum formula with at least SPF 30 to shield against UVA and UVB rays.
The best sunscreen, 2024 or beyond, is one you use daily.
2. Don’t dilute UV defense
Sunscreen requires reapplication every two hours to lock in protection, whereas our products are designed to be applied just once, making it the perfect addition to your skincare routine.
Plus, combining SPF with other products can compromise both their performance and your protection. Our advice? Apply it post-moisturizer for maximum effectiveness.
3. Stay shady
The sun's rays are typically strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. [8]. Around this time, find a shady spot to give your skin a break.
4. Cover up in style
Long sleeves, pants, and chic wide-brimmed hats are an extra layer of defense against the sun's rays.
5. Don’t forget your lips
Your lips aren’t immune to sun damage either. Remember to use a lip balm with SPF throughout the day.💋
6. Use Sunlight Drops to boost vitamin D
Sunscreen blocks the sun's UVB rays, which your body uses to produce Vitamin D [9].
Pour Moi Skincare's Sunlight Drops deliver a Vitamin D3-like boost, so your skin stays radiant and healthy, even as you diligently shield it from the sun.
7. Hydrate from within
Drinking plenty of water helps keep skin plump and resilient, making it less susceptible to sun damage.
Conclusion: Embrace the Sunshine with Pour Moi Skincare
The sun may be powerful, but so are you. 💪When you prioritize UV protection, you take proactive steps to delay premature aging, reduce skin cancer, and maintain a healthy, vibrant complexion for years to come.
Not only should you wear sunscreen every day, but you should empower it to thrive in every climate.
Pour Moi Skincare's Climate-Smart® skincare tailors to your environment's unique demands for optimal hydration and nourishment. Backed by cutting-edge research and 10 global patents, our revolutionary approach is the key to unlocking your skin's full potential.
Revitalize your skin with personalized skincare backed by science, 365 days a year.
FAQ’s About Sunscreen
Do I always need sunscreen in the evening?
No. Unless you're outdoors at sunset, there’s no need to wear sunscreen at night.
Should I wear sunscreen indoors?
Yes. Since UVA rays can penetrate glass, you should wear sunscreen inside. This is especially true if you spend prolonged time by a sunny window.
How often should I reapply sunscreen?
Every formula has its own reapplication instructions. However, the general rule of thumb is to reapply every two hours, especially if you're sweating or swimming [10].
References
[1] Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. Sun Protection Factor (SPF). FDA. Published online November 3, 2018. https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/center-drug-evaluation-and-research-cder/sun-protection-factor-spf
[2] Gabros S, Zito PM. Sunscreens And Photoprotection. Nih.gov. Published January 13, 2019. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537164/
[3] Cleveland Clinic. Premature Aging: Signs, Causes & Prevention. Cleveland Clinic. Published May 23, 2022. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/23105-premature-aging
[4] Engebretsen KA, Johansen JD, Kezic S, Linneberg A, Thyssen JP. The effect of environmental humidity and temperature on skin barrier function and dermatitis. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. 2015;30(2):223-249. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.13301
[45] Melanoma: Facts & Stats About Skin Cancer. Melanoma Research Alliance. https://www.curemelanoma.org/about-melanoma/melanoma-101/melanoma-statistics-2
[56] Sun damage. Mayo Clinic. Published June 24, 2023. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sunburn/in-depth/sun-damage/art-20546834
[67] Tang X, Yang T, Yu D, Xiong H, Zhang S. Current insights and future perspectives of ultraviolet radiation (UV) exposure: Friends and foes to the skin and beyond the skin. Environment International. 2024;185:108535-108535. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envint.2024.108535
[78] US EPA. Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation and Sun Exposure. US EPA. Published November 26, 2018. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/ultraviolet-uv-radiation-and-sun-exposure
[89] Raman R. How to Safely Get Vitamin D From The Sun. Healthline. Published April 28, 2018. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitamin-d-from-sun
[910] Chien ALL. Sunscreen and Your Morning Routine. www.hopkinsmedicine.org. Published 2024. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/sunscreen-and-your-morning-routine