Should I Wear SPF Every Day? Here’s Why the Answer is Yes

Wearing sunscreen every day might seem like an extra step in your skincare routine, especially in a country like Ireland, where we don't see too much sun even in the Summer months!

However, protecting your skin from the sun is crucial, regardless of how often you see it. The reality is that the sun’s rays can cause significant damage to your skin, even on cloudy days. 

The Risk of Melanoma: A Growing Concern in Ireland

Skin cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer, yet it remains a significant health issue worldwide. In Ireland alone, approximately 1,200 people are diagnosed with melanoma each year. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, and it develops when the DNA in skin cells is damaged—often due to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. This damage can trigger mutations that cause the cells to grow uncontrollably, leading to cancer.

Given these statistics, it’s clear that protecting your skin from UV exposure is not just about preventing wrinkles and sunburn; it’s about safeguarding your long-term health. 

Understanding UVA and UVB Rays: What’s the Difference?

To fully appreciate the importance of daily SPF, it’s essential to understand the difference between UVA and UVB rays, both of which are types of ultraviolet radiation from the sun.

• UVA Rays: These rays account for about 95% of the UV radiation reaching the Earth’s surface. They can penetrate the skin more deeply than UVB rays and are primarily responsible for premature aging and long-term skin damage. UVA rays are present throughout the day, all year round, and can penetrate glass, meaning they can affect your skin even when you’re indoors or driving.

• UVB Rays: UVB rays make up about 5% of the UV radiation we receive and are responsible for causing sunburn. They have higher energy than UVA rays but do not penetrate the skin as deeply. However, they play a significant role in the development of skin cancer, including melanoma. UVB rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and vary in intensity depending on the season and location.

Both UVA and UVB rays can cause damage to the skin, making it crucial to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both.

Sun Damage: The Most Prolific Cause of Premature Aging

When it comes to aging, the sun is not your skin’s friend. Photoaging, which refers to the premature aging of the skin caused by repeated exposure to UV radiation, is responsible for up to 90% of visible changes attributed to aging. This includes wrinkles, fine lines, loss of elasticity, and an uneven skin tone.

Unlike natural aging, which is determined by your genetics, photoaging is preventable. Regular use of SPF can significantly reduce the risk of developing these signs of aging, keeping your skin looking youthful for longer.

Non-Reversible Pigmentation: A Lasting Impact of Sun Damage

Another common effect of sun exposure is the development of pigmentation, such as sunspots, freckles, and melasma. These dark spots occur when the skin produces excess melanin in response to UV radiation. While some pigmentation can fade over time, much of it is non-reversible.

The best way to prevent pigmentation is by protecting your skin from the sun’s rays with daily SPF use. For those already dealing with pigmentation, consistent use of sunscreen can help prevent further darkening and protect against new spots.

The Effects on the Skin Barrier When Not Using SPF

Your skin barrier is your body's first line of defense against environmental aggressors, including UV radiation. When you don’t use SPF regularly, the sun's harmful rays can weaken and damage this barrier, leading to a host of skin issues.

1. Compromised Skin Barrier

2. Increased Risk of Sunburn

3. Accelerated Aging

4. Heightened Sensitivity and Inflammation

To protect your skin barrier and maintain its health, it’s essential to apply SPF daily. This helps to shield your skin from harmful UV rays, preserve moisture, and prevent the breakdown of essential skin components, keeping your skin resilient and strong.

Chemical vs. Mineral SPFs: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to choosing a sunscreen, you’ll find two main types: chemical and mineral (also known as physical) sunscreens. Understanding the difference between these two can help you make the best choice for your skin.

• Chemical Sunscreens: These sunscreens work by absorbing UV radiation and converting it into heat, which is then released from the skin. Common active ingredients include oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate. Chemical sunscreens tend to be more lightweight and easier to apply without leaving a white cast. However, some people with sensitive skin may experience irritation from certain chemical ingredients.

• Mineral Sunscreens: Also known as physical sunscreens, these products contain active mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which sit on the surface of the skin and reflect UV rays away. Mineral sunscreens are often recommended for sensitive skin because they are less likely to cause irritation. However, they can sometimes leave a white cast, especially on darker skin tones, and may feel thicker or more difficult to spread.

Both types of sunscreen are effective when used correctly, so the choice between them often comes down to personal preference, skin type, and specific needs.

Check out our range of SPF's available here: https://seabreezeskinclinic.ie/collections/sun-protection

Wearing SPF every day is not just a summer necessity—it’s a year-round commitment to your skin’s health. Whether you’re concerned about the risk of melanoma, premature aging, or pigmentation, daily sunscreen use is your best defense against the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays. By choosing the right type of sunscreen for your skin and making it a part of your daily routine, you can protect your skin and maintain its health and beauty for years to come.

Remember, the effects of sun damage are cumulative, meaning the protection you provide your skin today will pay off in the future. So, regardless of the weather or season, applying SPF should be as essential as brushing your teeth—an everyday habit that safeguards your health.