Is Sunscreen Necessary on a Daily Basis?

The rationale behind daily sunscreen application often centers on safeguarding against skin cancer, and this notion holds considerable merit. A 2020 review revealed that sunscreen usage demonstrated a reduction in the risk of both melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers.

Yet, as highlighted by dermatologists Dr. Anna Chacon and Dr. Ilyas, the advantages extend beyond cancer prevention:

• Slowing Aging Signs: Evidently, sunscreen’s merits encompass more than thwarting cancer. According to the 2020 review and the insights of Dr. Chacon, sunscreen usage can contribute to delaying the emergence of aging indicators such as wrinkles.
• Easing Scarring and Discoloration: Dr. Chacon supports the review’s findings, accentuating sunscreen’s role in mitigating scars and uneven skin tone.
• Protection Against Blue Light: Dr. Ilyas observes a contemporary interest in shielding against blue light emitted by electronic devices like smartphones and tablets. A 2022 study indicates that a broad-spectrum sunscreen containing phenylene bis diphenyltriazine (TriAsorB™) with an SPF of 50+ might combat cellular photodamage from blue light. Additionally, research from the same year indicates that blue light constitutes only a small fraction—approximately 2 to 5 percent—of our exposure to UV light.

Dr. Ilyas, also the CEO and Founder of AmberNoon, underscores that while DNA damage’s impact on cells is extensively documented, it’s worth noting that more than half of the sun’s light spectrum falls within the visible range.

In summary, the benefits of daily sunscreen use extend beyond cancer protection, encompassing the preservation of youthful skin, scar reduction, prevention of discoloration, and defense against blue light’s effects.

Do sunscreen recommendations change if you have darker skin?

The misconception that individuals with darker skin tones are exempt from sunscreen use bears serious consequences. A 2016 study underscored this fact by revealing that people of color faced a higher mortality rate from skin cancers, while UV exposure remained a prominent catalyst for skin cancer.

The study’s authors suggested that inadequate awareness about the dangers of sun-induced damage among these communities played a significant role.

Dr. Dietert concurs, advocating for the daily application of sunscreen by everyone, irrespective of their skin tone.

“Although lighter skin tones are more susceptible to skin cancer,” Dr. Dietert explains, “sufficient UV exposure can potentially trigger skin cancer in individuals of all skin types.”

Furthermore, Dr. Dietert points out that UV exposure isn’t discriminatory—it can hasten the aging process across all demographic groups.

In essence, debunking the notion that certain skin tones are immune to the need for sunscreen is essential, as all individuals, regardless of their complexion, should prioritize its daily use to guard against skin cancer risks and premature aging effects.

Can sunscreen trigger vitamin D deficiency?

While sun exposure is a source of essential Vitamin D, Dr. Chacon emphasizes that the benefits of sunscreen surpass the drawbacks. “Excessive UV light can lead to skin damage, resulting in burns and the eventual loss of skin elasticity, leading to premature aging,” she notes.

Addressing concerns about Vitamin D deficiency and sunscreen, a 2019 review indicated that there’s insufficient evidence to support the notion that sunscreen contributes to Vitamin D deficiency.

For individuals worried about Vitamin D due to existing deficiencies, there are safe alternatives to consider. Consulting with a physician, one can explore over-the-counter oral Vitamin D supplements or naturally increase intake through foods like salmon and egg yolks.

For Individuals with Melanated Skin

While a range of sunscreen options exists, individuals with melanated skin might be concerned about the visible white residue often left by sunscreen. Brands like Supergoop are known for their sunscreens’ absence of such a cast, as are products tailored to darker skin tones, such as Black Girl Sunscreen.

Makeup Products with SPF: A Word of Caution

Though some makeup includes SPF, Dr. Chacon warns that the protection offered might be inadequate. To attain the necessary safeguard, you may need to apply six to seven times the usual amount—a quantity exceeding what most people typically use.

Dr. Chacon aptly compares makeup with sunscreen to icing on a cake, suggesting it’s best viewed as an additional layer of protection rather than a replacement for dedicated sunscreen application.

Other ways to protect the skin

While SPF is pivotal, experts assert that the most effective sun protection involves employing a combination of defenses.

Dr. Dietert advocates for donning wide-brimmed hats and sun-protective attire, often labeled as “UPF” clothing, with a minimum UPF rating of 50+.

However, it’s important to recognize that these precautions serve as layers of protection and do not replace the necessity of sunscreen.

“Even when outfitted in UPF clothing,” Dietert cautions, “sunscreen remains crucial to counteract UV rays reflected from surfaces like water or concrete.”

In addition to the routine reapplication of sunscreen every two hours, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends:

• Avoiding tanning beds, as they contribute to UV exposure.
• Seeking shaded areas, which can significantly reduce direct sun exposure.
• Exercising heightened caution between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are at their most intense.

Embracing this multifaceted approach ensures a comprehensive defense against harmful UV radiation and underscores the ongoing significance of sunscreen in safeguarding skin health.