Should I Wear Sunscreen Indoors? The Definitive Answer!

Should you be wearing sunscreen indoors? Is it really necessary, or is it just another way for the skincare industry to make money? 

Yes, we hear you! You're probably wondering why on Earth you would need to wear sunscreen indoors if there is no sun exposure. Aren't you safe from the sun's rays inside? Won't the windows block them? Well, unfortunately, that's not always the case! 

So, even if you get in the car and then go to work, have a lazy Sunday, watch the best TV shows, or are just a vampire wannabe that never sees the light, applying sunscreen is a must if you want to avoid premature aging and, not to alarm you, skin cancer. 

Don’t believe us yet? Sit down, dust off the sunscreen that was hidden in your tote bag, and let us walk you through all the reasons why you need to wear sunscreen even when you are inside. 

Sunscreen 101: The Basics

Before diving into the question “Should I wear sunscreen indoors?”, it's vital to understand the significance of sunscreen. UV radiation is linked to more than just sunburn; it can increase the risk of skin cancer, cause irreversible skin damage, and accelerate premature aging, which is why sunscreen is essential year-round.

UVA and UVB Rays: WTH Are They?

Most people are familiar with the term "UV rays," but not everyone knows exactly what they are. In simple terms, UV lights are electromagnetic radiation from the sun, classified into UVA and UVB rays.

On one hand, UVA rays are the "aging" rays that penetrate deep into the dermis, causing wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and tanning by breaking down collagen fibers. On the other hand, UVB rays are considered the "burning" rays responsible for sunburn and damaging the skin's surface.

Both types of UV rays can harm the skin and potentially lead to skin cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, underscoring the need for vigilant sun protection.

Can Sunscreen Protect You from UV Rays?

A sunscreen acts as a shield by absorbing, reflecting, or scattering the sun's light, effectively protecting the skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation!

Most sunscreens employ active ingredients that absorb both UVA and UVB rays, converting light into heat released from the body, while others contain ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide that reflect or scatter UV light.

Can UV Rays Penetrate Windows?

Ever feel like you're being watched from the sun? Yes, UV rays can penetrate glass windows! While UVB rays are blocked by glass, UVA rays can pass through, with about 75% making it indoors, leading to aging signs and potential skin cancer.

And What About Blue Light?

You may think, “But I’m never exposed to UV light as I spend all day in a windowless room!” Here’s the catch: sunscreen is also crucial for protecting your skin from blue light emitted by screens!

Blue light, a type of high-energy visible light from electronic screens, while less harmful than UV light, can still contribute to premature skin aging, making it essential to wear SPF indoors!

What is SPF?

SPF doesn’t stand for “Super Pretty Face” but rather “Sun Protection Factor.” It measures how well a sunscreen protects against UV rays, the primary cause of sunburn and premature aging. The higher the SPF, the better the protection, with SPF 15 filtering about 93% of UVB rays and SPF 30 filtering about 97%.

Wearing Sunscreen Indoors: Do’s and Don’ts

If you’re still questioning why you should wear sunscreen indoors, consider this: UVA rays can penetrate window glass, damaging skin cells, causing age spots, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. Additionally, blue light exposure even in dimly lit environments can harm your skin.

So, what’s the best sunscreen for everyday use? Is reapplication truly necessary? Let’s explore some tips!

How Long Does Sunscreen Last on the Skin?

If you apply sunscreen before your day of indoor activities, how long does it last? According to the Mayo Clinic, most sunscreens remain effective for about two hours before needing reapplication. Factors such as sweating can affect this timeframe!

How Often to Apply Sunscreen when Indoors?

Many people skip applying sunscreen indoors, mistakenly believing they are shielded from UV light. However, regardless of being inside, exposure to UV radiation is still a risk.

It’s advised to reapply sunscreen on exposed skin every two hours—or more frequently as needed!

What is the Best Sunscreen for Everyday Use?

A variety of sun protection products are available, ranging from broad-spectrum to chemical, physical, and mineral sunscreens. Identifying the best option for your skin type is key, so let’s break down their benefits:

• Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

Broad-spectrum SPF products offer comprehensive protection, safeguarding against both UVA rays that contribute to aging and UVB rays that cause burns. This dual protection is instrumental in preventing skin issues over time.

Ideal for those spending ample time outdoors, broad-spectrum sunscreens also benefit individuals indoors.

Best for: Normal skin; may irritate sensitive skin.

• Chemical Sunscreens

Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them to heat released from the skin, utilizing chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate. Though light and easy to apply, they can sometimes irritate sensitive skin.

Best for: Oily, acne-prone, and combination skin.

• Physical Sunscreens

Physical sunscreens, or mineral sunscreens, create a barrier on the skin that reflects UV rays. Often gentler on sensitive skin, they primarily contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

Best for: Sensitive and dry skin as they tend to be thicker than other types.

Do You Need Water-Resistant Sunscreen Indoors?

Typically, no! Unless you have an indoor pool, a regular sunscreen—be it broad-spectrum, chemical, or mineral—is sufficient for protection against UVA light, which penetrates windows and contributes to aging and cancer risks.

Where to find the best sunscreen for everyday use?

Now that you know that applying sunscreen indoors is a ritual you can’t miss and discovering which sunscreen is ideal for your skin type, it is time to do some shopping at Asian Beauty Essentials. 

If you are looking for a sunscreen that doesn’t feel sticky and doesn’t leave you looking like Casper The Ghost but does its job, you’ve come to the right place! Check out our sunscreen collection and get everything you need to protect your skin.