The Truth About Sunscreen and Sun Damage: What You Need to Know

Whether you’re heading to the beach or just walking the dog, sun exposure is part of daily life. While sunlight gives us essential vitamin D and boosts our mood, too much of it can seriously damage our skin. That’s where sunscreen comes in—your skin’s best defense against premature aging, sunburn, and even skin cancer.

Why Sun Protection Matters

The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the form of UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are primarily responsible for sunburn, while UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin, contributing to aging and long-term skin damage. Overexposure to either can lead to DNA damage, which increases the risk of skin cancer.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the world. The good news? It’s also one of the most preventable, with consistent sun protection.

What Sunscreen Does

Sunscreen works by either absorbing or reflecting UV radiation before it can penetrate your skin. There are two main types:

1. Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients like avobenzone or oxybenzone that absorb UV rays.

2. Physical (or mineral) sunscreens use ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to reflect UV rays away from your skin.

Both types can be effective, but mineral sunscreens tend to be gentler on sensitive skin and offer broader protection right away. Also, some studies are showing oxybenzone might be cancer causing over time and many sunscreens are phasing it out. Finally, if you are going to the ocean, you should use the mineral sunscreens to help protect coral reefs.

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen

Look for these key features when choosing a sunscreen:

• Broad-spectrum protection: Blocks both UVA and UVB rays.

• SPF 30 or higher: SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures how well the sunscreen protects against UVB rays. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB radiation.

• Water-resistant: Essential if you’re swimming or sweating.

Common Myths Debunked

Myth: You don’t need sunscreen on cloudy days.

Fact: Up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds.

Myth: Darker skin tones don’t need sunscreen.

Fact: Melanin offers some natural protection, but not enough to prevent sun damage or skin cancer.

Myth: One application lasts all day.

Fact: Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours, and after swimming or sweating.

How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly

1. Use about a shot glass full (1 oz) to cover your whole body.

2. Apply 15–30 minutes before sun exposure.

3. Don’t forget overlooked spots: ears, tops of feet, back of neck, and your scalp (if exposed).

4. Reapply regularly, especially if you’re outdoors for long periods.

Beyond Sunscreen: Other Ways to Protect Your Skin

• Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

• Wear sun-protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.

• Be extra cautious near water, sand, or snow, which can reflect and intensify UV rays.

Sunscreen isn’t just for beach days—it’s a daily essential. Protecting your skin from sun damage not only helps maintain a youthful appearance but can also save your life. Start making sun safety a daily habit, and your skin will thank you for years to come.