Beyond the Beach: Why You Should Wear Sunscreen Every Day

September 10, 2024 by Forest Essentials

Table of Contents

When we think of sunscreen, most of us imagine sun-soaked days at the beach, lounging under an umbrella with the gentle sound of waves in the background. But while sunscreen is essential for those blissful beach outings, it’s equally important every day, no matter the season or your plans. The truth is, sun protection is not just for holidays—it’s a crucial part of your daily skincare routine.

The Harmful Effects of Everyday Sun Exposure

Did you know that up to 90% of visible skin ageing is caused by sun damage? Fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and loss of elasticity are often the result of unprotected sun exposure over time. The sun emits two types of harmful rays that can wreak havoc on your skin: UVA and UVB. While UVB rays are primarily responsible for sunburn, UVA rays penetrate deeper, causing long-term damage such as premature ageing, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. Alarmingly, UVA rays can penetrate clouds and glass, meaning that even on overcast days or while sitting by a window, your skin is still at risk.

This is where the benefits of sunscreen on the face become evident. The advantages of using sunscreen every day extend beyond the beach—they are essential for maintaining healthy skin year-round.

The Benefits of Using Sunscreen Every Day

Biracial woman in bathrobe applying cream on her face in sunny bathroom. Lifestyle, self care, beauty, skin and domestic life, unaltered.

Applying sunscreen daily provides vital protection for your skin, not only when you’re at the beach but throughout the year. Here’s a detailed overview of the benefits of sunscreen for your face and overall skin health:

1. Prevents Sunburn

One of the immediate risks of sun exposure is sunburn, caused by UVB rays. A broad-spectrum sunscreen creates a barrier that effectively blocks these harmful rays, preventing painful sunburns. Over time, repeated sunburn can cause severe skin damage, so applying sunscreen daily is essential to safeguard your skin.

2. Reduces Skin Cancer Risk

A significant advantage of using sunscreen is the reduced risk of developing skin cancer. Long-term exposure to both UVA and UVB rays without protection increases the likelihood of skin cancers, including melanoma and non-melanoma types. By applying sunscreen consistently, you protect your skin from these harmful rays, significantly lowering your chances of developing cancer.

3. Slows Premature Ageing

UVA rays, often referred to as ‘ageing rays’, penetrate deeper into the skin and accelerate the signs of ageing. These rays break down collagen and elastin, leading to fine lines, wrinkles, and a loss of skin firmness. Regular use of sunscreen helps to slow this process, preserving your skin’s youthful appearance by shielding it from long-term damage.

4. Prevents Hyperpigmentation

Prolonged sun exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation, where parts of the skin darken, resulting in an uneven complexion. Daily sunscreen application helps to prevent dark spots and discolouration by blocking UV rays that trigger these issues. Consistent use keeps your skin tone even and your complexion clear.

5. Shields Against Environmental Damage

Aside from UV rays, our skin faces other environmental threats such as pollution and free radicals, which can cause dullness, irritation, and premature ageing. Sunscreen, particularly those formulated with antioxidants, provides a protective layer against these aggressors, ensuring your skin remains healthy, hydrated, and radiant throughout the day.

Debunking Common Sunscreen Myths

There are many misconceptions about sunscreen that prevent people from using it properly. Let’s clear up some of the most common myths:

1. Myth: Sunscreen is only needed on sunny days.

UVA rays can penetrate clouds and glass, meaning your skin is at risk even on overcast days or when you’re indoors by a window. Daily sunscreen use is essential regardless of the weather.

2. Myth: People with darker skin don’t need sunscreen.

While darker skin may have more melanin, which offers some natural protection, it is not immune to sun damage. People with darker skin tones are still at risk of hyperpigmentation and skin cancer.

3. Myth: Sunscreen causes breakouts.

Many sunscreens are now formulated to be non-comedogenic, meaning they won’t clog pores. Look for sunscreens designed for your skin type, like oil-free or lightweight formulations, to avoid breakouts.

4. Myth: You only need sunscreen at the beach or during summer.

Everyday activities like driving, walking, or sitting near a window expose your skin to harmful UV rays. Applying sunscreen every day, year-round, is key to protecting your skin.

5. Myth: Makeup with SPF is enough protection.

While makeup with SPF is helpful, it typically doesn’t provide enough protection on its own. It’s important to apply a dedicated sunscreen under your makeup to ensure adequate coverage.

Using sunscreen daily is essential for everyone, regardless of skin type or weather. By debunking these myths, we can better understand the importance of proper sun protection in our daily routines.

The Best Sunscreens for Everyday Use

Incorporating sunscreen into your daily routine doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, it can be a luxurious experience when you choose the right products. Forest Essentials offers a range of SPF products that blend ancient wisdom with modern science, ensuring your skin receives the protection it deserves while indulging in the best of nature.

For broad-spectrum protection

One of the best sunscreens for everyday use is the Sun Fluid Tender Coconut Water With Turmeric & Basil Leaf SPF 50 PA++. This ultra-light, non-greasy formulation provides broad-spectrum protection, shielding your skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays. The inclusion of Natural Mineral Zinc intensifies the sun protection, helping to prevent early signs of aging and environmental damage.

For anti-Ageing benefits along with sun protection

For those looking for a face cream that offers both nourishment and sun protection, the Soundarya Radiance Cream With 24K Gold & SPF 25 is an exceptional choice. This rich yet light-textured cream is infused with precious herbs and real 24 Karat Gold, which helps restore firmness to the skin, giving it a natural facelift. Its natural SPF 25 neutralizes UVA and UVB radiation, safeguarding your skin from sun damage, environmental stressors, and pollution.

For oily and acne-prone skin

If your skin is prone to oiliness or blemishes, the Eladi Day Cream With SPF 30 is specially formulated to regulate sebum production while protecting and hydrating your skin. This cream, enriched with hand-pounded freshwater Pearls and pure Rosewater, not only offers sun protection but also works to clear blemishes and pigmentation.

For men’s skin

Men can also benefit from daily sun protection with the Hydrating Facial Moisturizer for Men Sandalwood & Orange Peel With SPF 25. This unique light formulation provides essential nutrients and restores the skin’s natural hydration level. Rich in antioxidants, this moisturiser is easily absorbed and protects the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.

For all-over sun protection

Lastly, don’t forget your body when it comes to sun protection. The Ultra Rich Body Milk Soundarya With 24K Gold & SPF 25, infused with the Soundarya Serum, Natural Mineral Zinc, and 24 Karat Gold Bhasma, penetrates deep into the skin, enhancing radiance and elasticity while offering SPF 25 protection.

Conclusion

Incorporating sunscreen into your daily skincare routine is a simple yet powerful step towards maintaining healthy, youthful skin. The sunscreen benefits for face and overall skin health are undeniable. By choosing high-quality SPF products like those from Forest Essentials, you’re not only protecting yourself from the sun’s harmful rays but also nourishing your skin with the best that nature has to offer.

Remember, the sun is with us every day, not just at the beach. Make sunscreen a daily ritual, and your future self will thank you for the gift of radiant, protected skin.

FAQs

How many times should I apply sunscreen in a day?

You should apply sunscreen every 2-3 hours, especially if you’re outdoors, sweating, or swimming.

Is sunscreen important every day?

Yes, sunscreen is essential every day, even when it’s cloudy or you’re indoors, as UV rays can still reach your skin.

How does sunscreen help your skin?

Sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, preventing sunburn, premature ageing, and reducing the risk of skin cancer.

When should you use sunscreen?

You should apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply throughout the day as needed.

References

https://www.healthline.com/health/sunscreen-explained

https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen/

https://www.vogue.com/slideshow/why-you-should-still-be-wearing-spf-while-working-from-home

https://www.vogue.in/story/3-reasons-why-spf-should-be-your-bff/

Written By:

Forest Essentials Luxurious Ayurveda

India’s leading beauty brand with products offering a sensorial journey with the purest natural ingredients and traditional Ayurvedic formulations, bringing timeless beauty rituals to the forefront of your self-care routine.

Reviewed By:

Arjun Singh Senior Ayurveda Expert

Arjun is a marketing professional turned Ayurveda Expert. After the completion of his post-graduation in 2008, he started his journey in the beauty industry. He has since worked with several global luxury beauty brands including DIOR & Estee Lauder. With now more than 12 years of experience, he is driven by the idea of making Skin Care, ‘simple’ and ‘accessible’ for all and help clients transform their lifestyle and skin with solutions rooted in his extensive understanding of Ayurveda. A Senior Ayurveda Expert at Forest Essentials, he carefully curates Ayurvedic remedies and is continuously working towards bridging the gap between time-honoured skin care solutions and the modern consumer of the fast-paced world.

Disclaimer

The content provided in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.