You probably already know how important it is to wear sunscreen when you're spending time outdoors. But what about when you're indoors? The answer may surprise you.
Studies have shown that the sun is the number one cause of premature wrinkles (not to mention skin cancer), which is why wearing sunscreen is one of the best things you can do for your skin. Unfortunately, many people skip sunscreen when they plan to be inside all day.
This is a big mistake for two reasons. For one, UVA rays can penetrate windows. The sun produces two types of ultraviolet light: UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are responsible for sunburns, while UVA rays are associated with signs of premature aging. Both cause cancer. So while the glass of your windows may be shielding you against sunburn, they are doing nothing to protect you against fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. In fact, the majority of UV hand aging occurs while driving!
The other reason you should wear sunscreen indoors is that sun damage is cumulative. On a rainy day indoors, your skin may not sustain a lot of damage. But over time, those little bits of damage add up.
Thus, it’s important to protect all exposed areas of skin with sunscreen every single day, even on days when you’re indoors! At the very least, apply sunscreen to your face, neck, and check. These areas have thinner skin and are more prone to signs of premature aging.
Do I Need to Reapply Sunscreen Indoors?
The general rule of thumb is that you should reapply sunscreen every two hours. But if you’re indoors and away from windows, you can probably get away with reapplying less often. (Hint: if you love wearing makeup, make sure to read “How to Reapply Sunscreen Over Makeup”). However, if you do something that could compromise the integrity of your sun protection layer – like swim or sweat – you should reapply.
What is the Best Sunscreen to Wear Indoors?
When choosing an indoor sunscreen, make sure you pick a formula that shields against both UVA and UVB rays. These sunscreens usually say “broad-spectrum” on the label. Our pick for indoor sunscreen is Perfect Sunscreen SPF 50+. This clinically proven formula contains micronized titanium dioxide that provides instant broad-spectrum protection for the skin. Plus, it’s lightweight and fast-absorbing so it feels comfortable on the skin.
