Do I Need to Wear Sunscreen Indoors? Yes!

DID YOU KNOW…

...90% of the visible signs of aging are due to sun damage?
...up to 20% of the sun’s harmful rays can penetrate the deepest layers of your skin, even on a cloudy day?
...that exposure to the sun could lead to increased hyperpigmentation?
...that all of the above holds true even if you’re inside?

While it may be true that we’re spending quite a bit of time indoors these days, we’d be lying if we said that means you don’t need to cut sunscreen from your daily routine. And a simple search on Google will show you that we’re not alone. If you were confused before on whether or not you need to wear sunscreen, the answer is unequivocally...YES!

The truth of the matter is, whether you’re inside or outside, there are plenty of reasons why protecting your skin from certain types of light. Keep reading to learn more about the obvious, and not so obvious reasons why you should make SPF your BFF all year long, whether you’re in front of your computer or basking in the sun!

Forms of light you should be concerned about indoors

Most likely, you’ve heard all about Ultraviolet (UV) radiation and its relationship to auburn. You’ve probably read, or heard about, countless studies on the link between overexposure to the sun and skin cancer. But are you also aware that there are other forms of light and radiation that could be negatively affecting your skin within the confines of your home?

Here are the ones you should take into consideration before you pack away your sunscreen and set up your work-from-home workspace in front of your favorite window:

1. UVB rays are the rays that are responsible for sunburn affecting the superficial layers of the skin. They are also the rays that play the greatest role in causing skin cancer.
2. UVA rays travel through clouds when you can’t see the sun and through the windows when you’re inside your home. When it comes to your skin, these rays can lead to an increase in fine lines and dark spots and can also cause skin cancer.
3. Infrared Radiation is light you can’t see, but you can feel. It’s the warmth you feel on your face as you sit at your desk by a window. While it may seem harmless, infrared radiation can lead to dehydration and tissue damage as a result of exposure to free radicals.
4. High-Energy Visible Light (blue light) is probably one form of light you had no idea was negatively affecting your skin even if you’ve purchased a snazzy pair of blue-blocking glasses. Spending extra time on your laptop? Scrolling through Instagram? Or Netflix and chilling? Your computer, your phone and your TV give off blue light that can lead to photo-aging, hyperpigmentation and age spots. That’s right, your keys to maintaining sanity are also threatening your skin’s health.

When used correctly, your sunscreen has the ability to provide protection for your skin from these light sources that you’re being exposed to indoors.

Protect your skin by adding a daily SPF to your indoor skincare routine

Now that you know why you should be wearing sunscreen indoors, what are you going to do about it? The Urban Skin Rx® experts recommend that everyone incorporate a moisturizer into your skincare regimen. Yes, that includes individuals with melanin-rich skin! No matter how much melanin your skin has, you’re still at risk of damaging your skin. Hyperpigmentation? Increased exposure to the above light form can lead to even darker dark spots.

Not to mention, if you’re currently using a product containing Retinol, Alpha-Hydroxy Acid or Beta-Hydroxy Acid, your skin may be extra sensitive to sun and light damage.

Find the right sunscreen for your indoor skincare regimen

If you’re a skincare Glowgetter like we are, you’ve probably recognized that extended time at home makes for the perfect time to establish a solid skincare routine. Well, now’s the time to make room for a daily SPF as a final step in your AM regimen.

So what should you look for in a sunscreen? The most important characteristics to look for in a sunscreen is SPF 30+ and a broad-spectrum sun protection formula. Check the label of your sunscreen and if it has these two features, you’re already starting off on the right foot.

If you’re in the market for a new daily moisturizer with SPF, Urban Skin Rx® currently has two for you to add to your skincare shelf! The Complexion Protection Moisturizer SPF 30 is perfect for anyone with normal to oily skin and this formula protects and smooths skin while minimizing the appearance of free radical damage, making it essential for the daily prevention of dark marks, uneven skin tone and photo-damage.

The second is our DermShield All Day Sun Protection Mattifying Moisturizer SPF 30. This non-pore-clogging formula provides advanced sun protection and helps prevent premature aging, dark marks and uneven skin tone.

No matter which SPF you choose, our goal is to provide you with as much information as you need to make the best choice for protecting your skin AND your glow-up!

For other information on skincare essentials, tips, and products, check out the Glow-Up Guide often!