Issue 21 | Top 5 Reasons To Wear SPF

Top 5 Reasons to Wear SPF Every Day (And How to Choose the Best Product)

When it comes to skincare, one of the most important steps is wearing sunscreen—every day.

Despite its significance, sunscreen is often overlooked - but incorporating SPF into your daily routine can have a lasting impact on your skin’s health and appearance.

From preventing premature aging to protecting against harmful UV rays, here are the top 5 reasons to wear SPF!

(Plus what to look for in an SPF product, especially when choosing one with clean ingredients.)

1. Protect Your Skin from Harmful UV Rays

The most obvious and important reason to wear SPF is to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays. There are two types of UV radiation—UVA and UVB—that cause different types of skin damage.

UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and contribute to premature aging, such as wrinkles and age spots. UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and can also cause long-term damage, including an increased risk of skin cancer.

Daily use of sunscreen helps block these harmful rays and prevent the damage they can cause. SPF (sun protection factor) works by absorbing or reflecting UV radiation, preventing it from reaching your skin and causing harm. It’s important to wear SPF even on cloudy days, as UV rays can still penetrate through the clouds and damage your skin.

2. Prevent Premature Aging

Sun exposure is one of the leading causes of premature aging. The UVA rays responsible for aging your skin break down collagen and elastin fibers, which are essential for keeping your skin firm and youthful. Without SPF protection, your skin is more likely to show signs of aging—wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of elasticity.

Regularly wearing sunscreen can prevent this breakdown, keeping your skin looking youthful and healthy for longer. Studies show that daily sunscreen use can delay the appearance of signs of aging by up to 24 years! Don’t wait until you notice wrinkles or fine lines to start protecting your skin; preventive measures today can help keep your skin youthful for years to come.

3. Lower Your Risk of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, and much of the risk is linked to sun exposure. Both UVA and UVB rays contribute to DNA damage, which can lead to the development of skin cancer over time. Wearing sunscreen daily helps reduce this risk by protecting your skin from the UV radiation that can trigger the mutation of skin cells.

While sunscreen is not a guarantee against skin cancer, it plays a critical role in prevention. Consistent sunscreen use significantly lowers the risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

4. Even Out Skin Tone and Prevent Hyperpigmentation

If you struggle with hyperpigmentation, dark spots, or melasma, daily sunscreen is essential. UV exposure is a leading cause of pigmentation issues and can worsen existing skin discolorations. Wearing sunscreen every day can prevent these spots from darkening further and new spots from appearing.

Additionally, sunscreen can help even out your skin tone by protecting the skin from environmental damage. When combined with your regular skincare routine, sunscreen acts as a shield against further discoloration, helping to maintain a clearer, more even complexion.

5. Keep Your Skin Hydrated and Healthy

Sunscreen doesn’t just protect your skin from UV damage—it also helps maintain your skin's moisture levels. Some sunscreens contain hydrating ingredients, such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or antioxidants, that work to lock in moisture and keep your skin nourished. By wearing sunscreen daily, you ensure that your skin stays hydrated and healthy, even when you’re exposed to the elements.

Chronic sun exposure without proper protection can leave skin feeling dry, rough, and irritated. SPF protects against this dryness by acting as a barrier between your skin and the sun’s harmful rays, allowing your skin to stay soft, smooth, and radiant.

What to Look for in a Sunscreen Product

Not all sunscreens are created equal, and choosing the right one is just as important as wearing it. When selecting your sunscreen, look for the following key factors to ensure it is effective, safe, and gentle on your skin:

1. Broad-Spectrum Protection

Always choose a sunscreen with "broad-spectrum" protection. This means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays, ensuring that you’re fully shielded from the sun’s harmful effects. Look for products that specify broad-spectrum coverage on the label.

2. SPF 30 or Higher

For everyday protection, an SPF of 30 or higher is recommended. Higher SPFs offer increased protection, but SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, which is adequate for most daily needs. If you’re spending extended time outdoors or in the sun, consider SPF 50 or higher.

3. Clean, Non-Toxic Ingredients

The term “clean ingredients” refers to products that are free from harmful chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and other potentially irritating or toxic substances. Many drugstore sunscreens contain chemical filters, such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, or avobenzone, which can be harsh on the skin or irritate sensitive skin types.

Opt for mineral sunscreens with clean, safe ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These mineral-based formulas sit on top of the skin and physically block UV rays without being absorbed into the body. They’re less likely to cause irritation, and they provide broad-spectrum protection without the use of harsh chemicals.

Wearing SPF every day is a non-negotiable step in maintaining healthy, youthful skin. Whether you’re trying to prevent fine lines, protect against skin cancer, or simply keep your skin hydrated, sunscreen is essential. When choosing your sunscreen, be sure to select a clean, broad-spectrum formula that protects your skin without harmful chemicals. Your skin will thank you for it now and in the years to come!