Does SPF have to be applied indoors when its cloudy?
Yes, it is recommended to apply SPF (sunscreen) even when you are indoors or on cloudy days. Here's why:
-
UV rays penetrate clouds: Clouds do not completely block UV rays from the sun. A significant amount of UV radiation can still reach your skin even on cloudy days, leading to potential sun damage.
-
UVA rays: UVA rays, which contribute to premature aging and skin damage, can penetrate through windows and reach your skin indoors. This means that even if you're inside a building or a vehicle, UVA rays can still affect your skin.
-
Blue light protection: Sunscreens with broad-spectrum protection can also provide defense against blue light emitted by electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. It's been claimed that prolonged exposure to blue light can have potential negative effects on the skin, including hyperpigmentation and oxidative stress. The science is still very much out on this however and any real evidence to demonstrate this claim is lacking. When comparing blue light exposure from electronic devices to blue light exposure from sunlight, the exposure from devices is by a huge magnitude smaller.
-
Sun exposure accumulates: Consistent and cumulative exposure to UV radiation over time can lead to long-term skin damage, including sunburn, premature aging, wrinkles, sunspots, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Protecting your skin with SPF every day, regardless of weather conditions or location, helps minimize this damage.
To effectively protect your skin, it is recommended to incorporate SPF into your daily skincare routine, even on cloudy days or when spending most of your time indoors. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and apply it generously to all exposed areas of the skin. Reapply as directed, especially if you are spending extended periods outdoors or engaging in activities that may cause sweating or wiping off the sunscreen.
Remember, protecting your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation is crucial for maintaining its health and preventing sun damage, regardless of the weather or your location.
Photo by Armin Rimoldi: https://www.pexels.com/photo/faceless-woman-applying-lotion-on-hand-on-sunny-day-5269653/