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You’re heading out the door on a cloudy Tuesday morning in February. Sunscreen probably isn’t top of mind—it’s not summer, and there’s no visible sun. But ultraviolet (UV) rays are still present, and your skin is still being exposed, even through cloud cover and glass. 

 

What many people don’t realize is that UV damage happens gradually. It builds over time, often without any obvious signs. By the time fine lines, sunspots, or changes in skin texture appear, that damage has already been accumulating for years. 

 

The good news is that daily sun protection is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce long-term skin damage. Whether or not you burn easily, and regardless of your skin tone, sunscreen plays a key role in protecting your overall health. 

 

In this article, we’ll explore how sunscreen works, why it matters year-round, and what to keep in mind when building a daily routine. 

 

How UV Rays Actually Harm Your Skin 

 

Most people know that sunlight can burn the skin, but the effects go deeper than that. There are two types of ultraviolet (UV) rays that impact skin health:

 

• UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and are largely responsible for premature aging and long-term damage. 

• UVB rays mostly affect the surface layers, causing sunburn and increasing the risk of skin cancer. 

 

Even short amounts of sun exposure add up over time—whether you’re walking the dog, sitting near a window, or driving with your arm by the door.

Overexposure to UV rays increases your risk of melanoma and other skin cancers, especially if you’ve had frequent sunburns or take medications that increase sun sensitivity. 

 

What SPF Means and Why It Matters for Sun Protection 

 

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it measures how long a sunscreen will protect you from UVB rays. For example, SPF 30 means you’re getting about 97% protection, while SPF 50 gives about 98%. But most people apply too little and too infrequently. 

 

To get the full benefit: 

 

• Use about a teaspoon for your face and neck 

• Reapply every two hours when outdoors 

• Apply 15–30 minutes before going outside 

 

Certain medications can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. If you're unsure how your prescriptions may affect your sun protection needs, our pharmacists can walk you through it during a routine consult. 

 

 

How Sunscreen Protects Your Skin from UV Rays

 

Sunscreen protects your skin in two main ways, depending on the type of ingredients it contains. 

 

Physical (mineral) sunscreens use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients sit on top of your skin and reflect UV rays away, like a mirror. They start working immediately and are less likely to cause irritation, making them a good choice for sensitive skin. 

 

Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients like avobenzone, octinoxate, or oxybenzone. These absorb into your skin and convert UV rays into heat, which your body then releases. They typically feel lighter and blend in more easily but need that 15–30-minute window to become fully effective. 

 

Many modern formulas combine both approaches to give you better protection with a more comfortable feel. 

 

Daily Sunscreen Use Benefits for Skin Health 

 

Making sunscreen a daily habit provides benefits that extend far beyond preventing sunburn. 

 

Prevents premature aging. Regular broad-spectrum sunscreen use is the most effective anti-aging strategy available. Studies show that people who use sunscreen daily have significantly less skin aging than those who use it only occasionally. 

 

Reduces skin cancer risk. Daily sunscreen use can cut your melanoma risk by up to 50% and reduce squamous cell carcinoma risk by about 40%. 

 

Maintains even skin tone. Consistent protection helps prevent dark spots, melasma, and the blotchy appearance that comes with accumulated sun damage. 

 

Protects your skincare investment. If you're using retinoids, acids, or other active ingredients, sun protection prevents these treatments from making your skin more vulnerable to damage. 

 

Why Sunscreen Is Important Year Round 

 

The biggest misconception about sun protection is that it's only necessary during summer months or sunny days. 

 

Cloud cover blocks only about 20% of UV rays, so you're still getting significant exposure on overcast days. Snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays back at you, which is why skiers can get severe burns even in freezing temperatures. 

 

Windows in cars and buildings block most UVB rays but let UVA rays through.

 

That means you're getting the aging and DNA-damaging effects of sun exposure while sitting in your office or during your daily commute. 

 

At higher altitudes, UV exposure increases by about 4% for every 1,000 feet above sea level. If you live in or frequently visit mountainous areas, this exposure adds up quickly. 

 

How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Your Skin Type 

 

Not all sunscreens work the same way for everyone. Finding the right formula makes daily use more comfortable and sustainable. 

 

For sensitive skin: Stick with mineral-based formulas containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Avoid fragrances and look for products labelled as hypoallergenic. 

 

For oily or acne-prone skin: Gel-based or water-based formulas work better than heavy creams. Look for "non-comedogenic" on the label to avoid clogged pores. 

 

For dry skin: Choose moisturizing formulas with added hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides. Many daily moisturizers with built-in SPF work well for this skin type. 

 

For active lifestyles: Water-resistant formulas stay put through sweat and swimming but remember that "waterproof" doesn't exist. You'll still need to reapply according to the schedule. 

 

For daily wear: Find something you actually enjoy using. If you dislike the texture or smell, you won't use it consistently. 

 

Common Sunscreen Mistakes (and How to Fix Them) 

 

Even people who use sunscreen regularly often don't get the full benefit because of these common errors: 

 

Not using enough. Most people apply about half the recommended amount. You need roughly an ounce (about two tablespoons) for your entire body. 

 

Missing spots. Don't forget your ears, lips, the tops of your feet, eyelids, and the back of your neck. These areas often show the first signs of sun damage.

 

Relying on makeup SPF alone. While makeup with SPF provides some protection, most people don't apply enough makeup to get the labelled level of coverage. Use a dedicated sunscreen underneath. 

 

Using expired products. Sunscreen ingredients degrade over time. Check expiration dates and replace bottles that have been sitting around for more than a year. 

 

Skipping reapplication indoors. If you're sitting near windows or under skylights for extended periods, you may need to reapply even when you're inside. 

 

Special Considerations and When to Ask for Help 

 

Medication interactions. Beyond the sun-sensitizing medications already mentioned, some topical treatments, certain supplements, and even some over-the-counter products can increase your sun sensitivity. 

 

Skin conditions. Conditions like rosacea, melasma, or recent procedures like chemical peels require extra sun protection. Even minor cuts or scrapes heal better when protected from UV exposure. 

 

Ingredient sensitivities. If you've experienced reactions to sunscreens in the past, our pharmacists can help you identify which ingredients to avoid and find alternatives that work for your skin. 

 

Making Sunscreen Part of Your Daily Routine 

 

The best sunscreen is the one you'll use every day. Make it as automatic as brushing your teeth by keeping it visible in your morning routine. 

 

Consider your lifestyle when choosing products. If you're outdoors frequently for work or exercise, invest in higher-quality, longer-lasting formulas. If you're mostly indoors, a lighter daily moisturizer with SPF might be sufficient. 

 

Store sunscreen where you'll see it—next to your coffee maker, by your keys, or with your other morning essentials. If it's out of sight, you're more likely to forget. 

 

Getting the Right Advice 

 

Our pharmacists can help you navigate the overwhelming number of sunscreen options available and make recommendations based on your specific needs, skin type, and budget. 

 

At Cook's Pharmacy, we regularly help patients identify medications that might increase sun sensitivity, recommend products that work well with existing skincare routines, and suggest complementary products like lip protection or after-sun care. 

 

If you're experiencing irritation from current products, have questions about ingredients, or need advice on protecting specific skin conditions, we're here to help make sun protection simpler and more effective. 

 

Your Skin's Daily Defence Strategy 

 

Daily sunscreen use is one of the most effective ways to prevent premature aging and reduce your risk of skin cancer. It's also much easier and less expensive than trying to reverse sun damage years down the road. 

 

Understanding how sunscreen protects your skin from UV rays helps you make better choices about the products you use and how you use them. The key is finding a routine that works for your lifestyle and sticking with it, regardless of the weather or season. 

 

Have questions about choosing the right sunscreen for your skin type or concerns about how your medications might affect your sun protection needs?  

 

Stop by one of our locations or give us a call. Our pharmacists are always happy to help you find the best protection for your individual situation.