A dermatologist reveals why you need to apply sunscreen even when you are at home

Whether you like wearing sunscreen or not, it is simply a must to have for your skin health.
sunscreen
Don't miss the right ingredients. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Nikita Bhardwaj Updated: 12 Mar 2021, 15:19 pm IST
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Those of you who think that this summer you might not have to shell out money on sunscreens as you are working from home, well,  we have news for all of you. The thing is whether you are going out or working from home, you still need to wear a layer of sunscreen to protect your skin from the various sources of UV rays. 

Applying sunscreen is not driven by a particular season or physical environment (indoors/outdoors) and it is advisable to wear it round the clock. In fact, according to beauty influencer, Sone Kanwar, sunscreen should ideally be applied after every two hours to keep the skin protected.

There has to be solid grounds for experts and even beauty influencers going gaga over sunscreen and we’re here to tell you exactly why that is, as we spoke to Dr Ajay Rana, world renowned dermatologist and aesthetic physician to help us understand the benefits of sunscreen better.

Sunscreen not just prevent tanning but ageing as well

According to Dr Rana, sunscreen offers a broad spectrum to guard against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays of the sun that is good for the skin. So always look for a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher as it protects the Skin from UV Rays. The depletion of the ozone layer has increased our risk of sun damage from harmful UV rays and  sunscreen blocks these rays, reducing the chances of sunburn. As a matter of fact, applying sunscreen everyday helps reduce the risk of contracting skin cancers. 

sunscreen
Yes, wearing sunscreen indoor is mandatory. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

“Sun damage from UV rays causes photoaging of the skin, which is characterized by a thick, leathery look; discoloration; and a breakdown of collagen, which contributes to lines, sagging and wrinkles. It prevents premature aging of the skin and also helps to prevent discoloration, dark spots from sun damage and maintain a smooth and even skin tone,” explained Dr Rana.

Try: Brillaire Multi-Protection Sunscreen SPF 40 that protects the skin from not only the UV rays of the sun, but also blue light  

Absolutely, you need to apply sunscreen at home, says Dr Rana 

You should apply sunscreen even when you are at home as pollution and sun rays can affect the skin. However, before applying or choosing a sunscreen for your skin type, keep certain pointers in mind. Sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) between 15 to 30 will help to protect the skin from daily sun exposure, however, if you will be out for a longer period of time, then opt for a higher SPF. 

Dr Rana further suggested that “gadgets that we are glued to day in and day out also reflect light that have bad impact on our skin but if you will be wearing sunscreen at home, your skin will be protected from that as well.”  

But how often do you have to apply it?

Sunscreen should be ideally applied every two hours, especially when you’re going outside because a sunscreen’s SPF value is only fully effective for two hours after putting it on. You may also apply it at least twice a day, even when you are not stepping outside,” recommended Dr Rana.

Learn the right way to apply sunscreen

A good sunscreen needs at least 20 to 30 minutes to absorb into the skin. Remember to shake the bottle of sunscreen and use at least 35 milliliters of it to cover the entire body, especially areas like your back, ears, behind your knees and legs. Also, if you’ve been in the sun for more than 30 minutes, then reapply more sunscreen for added protection. 

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sunscreen
Don’t make the mistake of going out with a layer of sunscreen.
Image courtesy: Shutterstock
This is what going to happen if you start applying sunscreen properly

Sunscreen helps to protect the skin from painful, red, sunburns and your body from heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Sunscreen also helps to get rid of premature aging, sunspots, discoloration, fine lines, and wrinkles. This could help your skin to look youthful and radiant.

“Essential proteins in the skin like keratin are protected when sunscreen is applied. These proteins are primarily responsible for keeping the skin smooth and healthy both in appearance and function,” concluded Dr Rana.

So ladies, please consider investing in a sunscreen that suits your skin type and daily routine for a protected and nourished skin.

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About the Author

Six-pack abs are all that Nikita needs, along with her daily dose of green tea. At Health Shots, she produces videos, podcasts, stories, and other kick-ass content. ...Read More

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