Sun Protection FAQ’s
Can I skip sunscreen on cloudy days?
Despite cloud cover, UVA (aging rays) rays can still penetrate and cause skin damage. Therefore, it's essential to wear sunscreen daily, regardless of the weather.
Do I need to wear sunscreen indoors?
While indoor environments provide some protection against UVB rays, UVA rays can still penetrate windows and cause skin damage. It is recommended that sunscreen be applied indoors, especially if one is near windows or spends extended periods in well-lit areas.
How often should I reapply sunscreen?
Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours or more frequently if swimming, sweating heavily, or towel-drying. Reapplication ensures continuous protection against UV rays.
What does "water-resistant" sunscreen mean?
Water-resistant sunscreen maintains its effectiveness for a certain period in water, typically 40 or 80 minutes, as indicated on the label. However, it's essential to reapply after swimming or sweating to ensure continued protection.
Can I use expired sunscreen?
Using expired sunscreen reduces its effectiveness and may not provide adequate protection against UV rays. To ensure optimal sun protection, it's advisable to discard expired sunscreen and replace it with a fresh bottle.
Should I wear sunscreen if I have dark skin?
Yes, individuals with darker skin tones are still susceptible to sun damage and skin cancer. While darker skin provides some natural protection against UV rays, wearing sunscreen helps prevent sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer.
Is SPF 100 sunscreen more effective than SPF 50?
While higher SPF levels offer increased protection against UVB rays, the difference between SPF 50 and SPF 100 is minimal. SPF 50 blocks approximately 98% of UVB rays, while SPF 100 blocks around 99%. Both provide excellent protection when applied correctly, so choosing SPF 50 or higher is sufficient for most individuals.
Can I wear makeup with SPF instead of sunscreen?
While makeup with SPF offers some sun protection, it's often not sufficient on its own. To ensure adequate sun protection, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen underneath makeup, allowing it to fully absorb before applying cosmetics