Do we need to wear sunscreen indoors?

Do we need to wear sunscreen indoors?

​Yes, we need to wear sunscreen even inside our homes, offices or cars in order to protect our skin from the harmful effects of UVA rays. While glass windows can protect us from UVB it does not protect us from UVA rays unless these windows have UV blocking films. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and while we don’t see the effects right away, long term exposure to UVA rays are harmful to the skin. Even at low doses UVA rays can result to decreased skin elasticity, increased wrinkling, skin roughness and sagging.
 
The amount of exposure to UVA is continuous throughout the year, whereas UVB exposure occurs more in the summer. UVB is most commonly associated with darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation) during summer.

Is it true that sunscreen can cause skin cancer?

There are no evidence that link sunscreen to melanoma or other skin cancer. The development of skin carcinoma may be secondary to improper application of sunscreen or prolonged duration of intentional sun exposure. Sunscreen especially those with higher SPF give some people a false sense of security so they exposed themselves longer without re-application thus increasing chances of skin carcinoma.

Should I still apply sunscreen after summer

 
Yes, we need to apply sunscreen all year round because exposure to UVA is continuous throughout the year, this may lead to loss of skin elasticity and wrinkling. American College of Dermatology asserts that snow, sand, and water increases the need for sunscreen because they reflect the sun’s rays.
 
Here’s The American Academy of Dermatology’s (AAD) guideline for sunscreen use:

• Choose a sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher, is water resistant, and provides broad-spectrum coverage from UVA and UVB rays.
• Apply sunscreen generously 15 minutes before going outdoors.
•  Use enough, most adults need at least one ounce of sunscreen, about the amount you can hold in your palm, to fully cover your body.
• Remember your neck, face, ears, tops of your feet, and legs. If you have thinning hair, either put sunscreen on your scalp or wear a wide‐brimmed hat. Use a balm with an SPF of at least 15 for your lips.
• Reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. People who get sunburned usually didn't use enough sunscreen, didn't reapply it after being in the sun, or used a sunscreen that was expired.

 
In addition, seek shade especially when sun is strongest between 10AM-4PM, wear wide brimmed-hat , use light weight clothing that covers exposed areas, avoid tanning beds. Please keep newborns out of direct sun since their skin is extremely vulnerable. Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months. Children are very sensitive to ultraviolet radiation- one severe sunburn in childhood doubles the chances of developing melanoma later in life. 
 
 
Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are safe however those with additional contents such as PABA and Trolamine salicylate are not considered safe. Please read label for ingredients which should be on the front of the product. You can post your questions on our Facebook page or email us directly at [email protected].
 
Let’s continue to socially distance and wash our hands frequently. Stay safe and will see you soon at Melanin!!