Staying Inside? Dermatologists Say You Still Need to Wear Sunscreen

Stuck inside lately? It seems like this might be the case for the foreseeable future. But it’s great we’re all doing our part to stop the spread of Coronavirus/Covid-19. Understandably you might be thinking now is a perfect time to skip the sunscreen since you’re not really going outside. It’s one of those things that seems to make logical sense but the reality is that sunscreen is still a must while we’re indoors. Here’s why.

You Can Still Get Sun Damage Inside

It’s a common misconception that you don’t need to apply sunscreen when you’re inside because you’re not exposed to the sun. Well that’s not quite accurate.

Standard glass windows block UVB rays but not UVA rays and, unfortunately, sun damage is caused by both UVB and UVA rays. You see UVB rays cause sun burn and skin cancer while UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to skin cancer and skin aging – wrinkles, dark spots, and leathery textured skin.

But don’t take my word for it. According to dermatologist and the director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York Joshua Zeichner:

"UVA light penetrates right through window glass. So sunscreen is definitely useful even if you're inside…If you're sitting near the window at work, or are next to a window at the gym, you are actually exposing yourself to UVA light, which is responsible for premature aging and skin cancer.”

So don’t forget to apply that sunscreen while inside because windows don’t do enough to protect us from UV light. Essentially you will be exposing yourself to sun damage whether indoors or out.

Don’t Skip the Sunscreen

Think of wearing sunscreen like brushing your teeth, it’s just something you have to do everyday. Oh, and don’t forget to reapply - the same rules apply if you’re outside or inside.

Finally, if you’re on the look out for a mineral only sunscreen made with certified organic and natural ingredients – check out our Natural Face Moisturizer SPF 30 and Natural Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30.

More Sunscreen Tips

For even more sun protection and sunscreen tips check out our Suncare Smarts blog series.