Sun protection isn't only for seaside vacations. Or leisurely outings on the water. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends individuals older than 6 months must use UV defense daily. At any time of year, whatever the weather, indoors, outdoors you are exposed to sun's ray indirectly/directly, states Cleveland Clinic.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, for everyday protection, opt for a sunblock offering a minimum SPF of 30. If you're frequently outside, go for one rated SPF 60 or above.
Using sun protection regularly can maintain a youthful appearance by reducing the development of fine lines, says Healthline. It also supports the gradual lightening of marks on the skin, evens out tone by minimising dark patches, shields the face from screen-emitted light.
Applying sunblock is a simple yet highly effective method to maintain, lifelong, both the beauty and well-being of your skin. Consistent use can lower the chances of developing skin damage, including burns, serious conditions like cancer, states Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Make sure to protect all visible skin when outdoors -- arms, legs, backs of your hands, tops of your feet if you’re in sandals. If you use a face-only sunscreen, apply a body-specific formula to other vulnerable spots like your arms and torso. For those with dry skin, a hydrating SPF lotion can be a convenient choice.
The false belief that melanin-rich skin doesn’t require sun protection can be harmful. According to Healthline, individuals with darker complexions faced higher death rates from skin cancer, with sun exposure playing a major role.
Sunscreens are expected to stay effective for up to 3 years, as regulated by America's FDA. Always inspect the packaging for a listed expiry date. If the product is past that date or has been stored in very hot or cold conditions, it’s best to discard it, says Mayo Clinic.
Wearing sun protection can reduce your skin’s ability to produce vitamin D since it filters out UVB rays. That said, most individuals don’t use enough sunscreen to fully block UVB exposure. As a result, vitamin D levels usually remain within a healthy range, so skipping sunscreen isn’t necessary, states Harvard Health.