We’ve all heard the reminder—“Don’t forget your sunscreen!”—but how much do we actually understand about SPF and sun protection? Whether you’re lounging on the beach, running errands, or sitting next to a sunny window, protecting your skin from the sun’s rays is one of the most important habits you can develop for your skin’s long-term health and appearance.
SPF measures how well a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays, the type of ultraviolet radiation that causes sunburn and contributes to skin cancer. It’s also important to understand that UVB rays aren’t the only ones to worry about. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin, accelerating signs of aging such as wrinkles and sunspots, and also increasing the risk of skin cancer. This is why it’s essential to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Without broad-spectrum protection, you might still be vulnerable to serious sun damage even if you're wearing SPF.
One of the most common misconceptions about sun protection is that it’s only necessary on sunny days or when you’re spending time outdoors. In reality, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate through clouds, and UVA rays can even pass through windows. This means that whether it’s cloudy, rainy, or you’re indoors near a window, your skin is still exposed to potential damage. The effects of the sun are cumulative, so even brief periods of unprotected exposure can add up over time.
Even if you’re diligent about applying sunscreen, it’s easy to miss certain areas. Commonly overlooked spots include the ears, back of the neck, eyelids, lips, the tops of the feet, and the scalp or hair part. These areas are just as vulnerable to damage and should be protected accordingly. A mineral sunscreen can be a good option for delicate areas like the eyelids, and an SPF lip balm is a must for the lips.
Reapplication is another crucial part of effective sun protection. One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming that a single morning application is enough to protect them all day. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating. Keeping a travel-size sunscreen in your purse, car, or backpack makes reapplying on the go much easier!
While sunscreen is essential, it’s not the only form of protection. Wearing large wide-brimmed hats, UV-blocking sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing can significantly reduce your UV exposure. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating for added safety. Whenever possible, try to seek shade, especially during the sun’s peak hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
In the end, protecting your skin should always be a top priority. Consistent sun protection is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent premature aging, discoloration, and skin cancer. Think of sunscreen as daily armor for your skin—it should be just as routine as brushing your teeth. By making SPF a non-negotiable part of your morning, you're investing in healthier, stronger, and more radiant skin for years to come.
