Sunscreen is a familiar go-to during the summer months, but did you know that you should wear sunscreen on a daily basis, no matter what time of the year it is? The truth of the matter is that harmful UV rays from the sun can damage your skin year-round. It doesn’t matter whether the skies are cloudy or blue or whether it’s summer or winter. Snow, water, and concrete can reflect large percentages of UV rays, and higher altitudes contribute to elevated UV exposure. To prevent harm from these UV rays and numerous other issues, consider the following reasons to wear sunscreen on a daily basis.
Protection Against UV Rays
As briefly mentioned above, sunscreen does an excellent job at protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. Not only will sunscreen reduce your chances of getting sunburned, but it will also prevent premature aging and sun spots. Fortunately, sunscreen isn’t hard to find, especially in the wintertime. Many beauty products, including lotions and cosmetics, include SPF in their formulations. There are even different types of sunscreens, such as physical and chemical sunscreens.
Reduced Cancer Risk
Prolonged sun exposure causes skin cancer, which just so happens to be the most common form of cancer in the US. Daily application of sunscreen, especially on parts of your body that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as your hands, face, and neck, can dramatically reduce your chances of developing skin cancer.
Prevent Premature Aging
Another reason to wear sunscreen on a daily basis is the fact that sunscreen protects your skin from premature aging. UV rays that penetrate sunscreen-less skin cause harmful damage called photoaging. This causes your skin to develop a leathery appearance, unsightly discoloration, sagging, and fine lines and wrinkles.
Maintain a Balanced Complexion
Sunscreen prevents UV rays from wreaking havoc and discoloring your skin. This discoloration often appears in the form of dark spots. By applying sunscreen daily, you’ll prevent this discoloration and maintain smoother, softer skin with a more balanced complexion.