Why You Should Wear Sunscreen All Year

Why you should wear sunscreen year-round

Sunscreen in the summer seems like a no-brainer, but should you actually consider wearing it year round? The answer to that question will always and forever be yes.

Although the first commercial sunscreen was invented in 1936, sunscreen dates all the way back to ancient Egypt; where they used rice bran and jasmine to shield skin from burning.

In the summer, the sun seems as though its more powerful because of the heat. Although that may be partially true, over 80 percent of the sun’s rays can pass through the clouds in the winter time. Although you may not get a sunburn, you risk damaging your skin either way. Not to mention, the snow reflects 80 percent of the sun’s light as well.

The cold air will dry out your skin, unlike summer where sweat keeps your skin mostly moisturized (still no excuse to not wear sunscreen in the summer). This can cause signs of aging to appear much sooner. When you use sunscreen you prevent and lower the appearance of lines, sagging skin, wrinkles, and discoloration. The sun breaks down collagen in your body, causing these things to show much faster. Studies show that people who apply sunscreen before age 55 daily have a 24 percent less chance of visible aging signs. Sunscreen also maintains and smooths skin tone… isn’t that reason enough?

Not to mention, your health is at risk. The depletion of the ozone layer has increased the risk of skin damage, and even the risk of cancer. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recorded that 71,943 people were diagnosed with skin cancer in 2013, and of those cases 9,394 were fatal. Not only does sunscreen lower the risk for melanoma, it cuts the risk in half. Sunscreen blocks the harmful rays on your skin, and is overall beneficial to your skin as well. It’s important to note that if your SPF is below 30, you might as well throw it out.

I bet right about now you’re itching to put on some sunscreen, but before you go, there are a few different kinds that are useful for different types of skin.

OILY AND ACNE PRONE SKIN:

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

This lightweight, oil-free and broad spectrum is hydrating and acne fighting (with lactic acid) to make summer and winter always a good skin day.

FOR NORMAL SKIN

SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50

This high power skin protection has a 40 minute water resistance. It is sheer, universal tint that makes wearing foundation nearly pointless.

MATURE SKIN

Dermalogica AGE Smart Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50

For those who struggle with fine lines and wrinkles, this lotion should be applied daily to fortify your natural barrier with peptides and hyaluronic acid. This eliminates early signs of aging and further damage.

FOR WEARING UNDER MAKEUP

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

This weightless, scentless sunscreen us completely oil-free and colorless. It gives your skin a clear, matte surface that’s ready for your #LOTD (Look of The Day). This sunscreen protects UVA, UVB, blue light and infrared lights.