As the leaves fall, so should the myths about sunscreen being a summer-only affair! While you might think that you only need to liberally apply SPF while on a beach vacay or warm-weather barbecue, substantial research tells us otherwise.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, you should always apply sunscreen daily regardless of the season — here’s why. The sun emits harmful UV rays year-round. That’s right, even on cloudy days, up to 80% of the sun’s harmful UV rays can penetrate the clouds, leading to sun damage and premature aging.

Whether you have a minimal or multi-step skincare routine, here are eight reasons why you need to protect your skin with SPF to ensure radiant skin all year long.

The Importance of Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a must when it comes to protecting your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation from the sun. UV rays can cause sunburn and premature aging while increasing the risk of skin cancer. Here are some key reasons why you should apply it daily.

1. Protection Against Harmful UVA and UVB Rays

UVA and UVB rays are two types of ultraviolet radiation from the sun that play significant roles in skin damage, premature aging, and increased skin cancer risk. Though both come from the same source, they affect the skin differently.

• UVA rays are responsible for premature skin aging (think wrinkles, fine lines, and sun spots). Because they penetrate deeper into the skin, reaching the dermis (the skin’s second layer), UVA rays break down your skin’s collagen and elastin fibers, leading to loss of tone and a leathery texture.

• UVB rays directly damage the outer layer of the skin (epidermis), causing sunburn. They are more intense than UVA rays but don’t penetrate as deeply. Still,  they’re primarily responsible for visible, immediate damage after sun exposure.

2. Skin-Friendly Defenses

Sunscreen either absorbs or reflects UV rays, reducing their penetration into the skin. Choosing chemical and mineral sunscreen depends on personal preference, skin type, and specific needs. However, mineral sunscreens are considered better for sensitive and oily skin, as they are less likely to cause irritation and clog pores.

• Mineral sunscreens contain physical UV filters, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, that work by reflecting UV rays on the skin’s surface. While some mineral sunscreens can leave a white cast on the skin, not all do. Many of the newer formulas on the market blend naturally into all skin tones.

• Chemical sunscreens typically contain organic compounds that absorb UV radiation, such as avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, and octinoxate. They’re generally lighter and more easily absorbed.

3. Overall Skin Health Benefits

Sunscreen has several skin-loving benefits that extend beyond protecting against sunburn.

• Excessive exposure to both UVA and UVB rays proposes a major risk factor for skin cancers, such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Regular use of sunscreen significantly reduces the risk by shielding the skin from harmful rays.

• UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and cause premature aging by breaking down collagen and elastin fibers, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. Sunscreen prevents these rays from causing structural damage, helping to maintain a youthful appearance.

• Sun exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation, including dark spots and melasma, especially in people with darker skin tones. Sunscreen helps prevent the overproduction of melanin, which causes these pigmentation issues.

• UV exposure can worsen symptoms or slow the healing process if you have a skin condition such as acne, eczema, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Sunscreen helps the skin heal by protecting it from further UV damage.

Year-Round Necessity

Despite the crisp fall air and overcast, drizzly days, SPF is still a vital part of your daily routine because it protects your skin from both short-term and long-term damage.

4. Blue Light Reduction

Even if you spend more time indoors in front of your computer or tablet, numerous studies have found that the blue light emitted from these devices (especially in the 400-490 nm range) may impact your skin over time, potentially accelerating aging by generating oxidative stress. If you’re concerned about blue light from screens, choose a sunscreen with added protection against visible light or one formulated with iron oxides, which block more wavelengths of light.

5. Caring for Hands and Lips

Remember, it’s not just your face that needs protection. Don’t forget to shield other exposed areas of your skin, like your hands and lips. The skin on your lips is thinner and more sensitive than the rest of your body, making it highly susceptible to sunburn.  By incorporating SPF lip balm into your routine, you ensure your lips are well-protected, hydrated, and healthy year-round.

Integrating Sunscreen into Your Routine

Incorporating SPF into your daily routine can be as easy and automatic as sipping your morning coffee! Here are some fun tips to help make SPF a non-negotiable part of your day:

6. Keep it Next to Your Toothbrush

Just like brushing your teeth is a must, SPF can be too! Store it beside your toothbrush or face wash so it naturally becomes part of your morning routine. As you cleanse and moisturize, you’ll remember to apply sunscreen.

7. Look for Multitasking Products

Invest in multi-purpose products like moisturizers or foundations with SPF. This way, you combine steps and save time without skipping sun protection. It feels like you’re doing less but still protecting your skin!

8. Make SPF a part of Your Makeup Routine

If you wear makeup, make sunscreen the first step of your beauty routine. Think of it as your “primer” before experimenting with your new fall makeup palette! Sunscreen sprays or powders are also great for touch-ups if you wear makeup throughout the day, and a waterproof eyeliner keeps your look fresh, even if you get caught in a fall drizzle!

As the cooler days of fall settle in, it’s easy to forget about sunscreen, but it’s crucial to remember that UV rays are present year-round. Sunscreen is your skin’s best friend, providing essential protection regardless of the season. By making SPF a consistent part of your daily routine, you’ll protect your skin from premature aging, sun damage, and the risk of skin cancer.

So, embrace your new SPF habit and enjoy the long-term benefits of healthy, glowing skin! Your future self will thank you.