Should You Wear Sunscreen Everyday?
Many argue over whether sunscreen is a must in our daily routines. So, is it required or not?
7/24/20242 min read
The necessity of using sunscreen on a daily basis has created controversy among many individuals. While some say that SPF hinders Vitamin D production, others believe that sun exposure is harmful to skin health. So, is sunscreen actually necessary?
What Does Sunscreen Do?
Sunscreen is a photoprotective lotion that absorbs or reflects UV rays before they enter the skin. Without it, these ultraviolet rays are known to trigger premature aging, sunburns and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Types of Sunscreen Filters
Sunscreen filters are available in two main forms:
Chemical Sunscreen
Chemical sunscreens make up the majority of sunscreens available on the market. They are made up of organic compounds that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat.
The three most popular chemical sunscreen filters are oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone.
Chemical sunscreens are more suited for people with darker complexions.
It takes 15–30 minutes for chemical sunscreens to absorb.
Physical Sunscreen
Inversely, physical sunscreens consist of inorganic filters that sit on top of skin's surface and reflect UV rays.
The most common physical sunscreen filters are zinc oxide, iron oxide, and titanium dioxide.
Physical sunscreens take effect right away, although they can leave a slight white cast on the skin.
Sun Exposure and Skin Health
It's important to realize that while sun exposure helps contribute to the production of vitamin D, excessive sun exposure can be harmful to skin health.
Long-term sun exposure without sunscreen can cause UV rays to deeply penetrate through the skin. The breakdown of collagen can cause damage over time, which can have lasting consequences such as an increased risk of skin cancer and early aging.
Ultimately, the answer to the question of whether or not to wear sunscreen every day is a huge YES.
Considering how essential sunscreen is, SPF needs to be a part of your skincare routine and should be applied each morning to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Takeaway