By : Geraldus Sigap
Still think sunscreen is only necessary at the beach? In reality, sunlight can damage your skin even if you’re just going about your day in the city or even indoors. Daily use of sunscreen is essential to protect your skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause long-term damage, including premature aging and skin cancer.
Why Is Sunscreen Important?
UV exposure, especially UVA and UVB rays, can penetrate the skin and cause various harmful effects, such as:
- Dark spots and hyperpigmentation
- Wrinkles and fine lines (premature aging)
Dull and rough skin - Skin cancer (including melanoma)
What Is Sunscreen and How Does It Work?
Sunscreen is a skincare product that contains active ingredients to absorb or reflect UV rays before they penetrate the skin. There are two main types:
- Chemical sunscreen – absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat
- Physical/mineral sunscreen – reflects UV rays like a mirror
Both types are effective when used correctly and reapplied every few hours.
How to Choose the Right Sunscreen
Look for sunscreens with the following criteria:
- SPF 30 or higher – for protection against UVB
Broad spectrum – for UVA & UVB protection - Water-resistant – especially if sweating or swimming
- Suitable for your skin type – e.g., gel for oily skin, cream for dry skin
When and How to Use Sunscreen?
- Apply every morning, even when it’s cloudy or you’re indoors with bright lighting
- Apply 15–30 minutes before going outside
Reapply every 2–3 hours, especially after sweating or water exposure
Tip: Apply to all exposed areas like the face, neck, ears, hands, and feet.
What Are the Risks of Not Using Sunscreen?
Without proper protection, UV exposure can lead to:
- Collagen damage, causing sagging and wrinkles
- DNA mutations in skin cells, which may trigger skin cancer
- Sunburn, which causes pain, redness, and peeling
Who Should Use Sunscreen?
Everyone! Men and women, from children to older adults. Especially:
- People frequently outdoors
- Those with fair skin, who are more vulnerable to UV damage
- Individuals with a family history of skin cancer
People undergoing skin treatments (laser, peeling, etc.)
FAQ
- Should I wear sunscreen every day even if I stay indoors?
Yes. UVA rays can penetrate through window glass and still damage your skin indoors.
- Should sunscreen be applied before or after makeup?
Sunscreen should be applied after skincare and before makeup. Use at least 15 minutes before heading out.
- What SPF is recommended for daily use?
Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and a broad-spectrum label for UVA and UVB protection.
- Should sunscreen be reapplied?
Yes. Reapply every 2–3 hours, especially after sweating or water exposure.
- Which is better, SPF 30 or SPF 50 sunscreen?
SPF 30 can filter about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 filters around 98%. The difference is not very significant, but SPF 50 may offer extra protection for those with very sensitive skin, prolonged outdoor activities, or individuals undergoing certain skin treatments.
Don’t wait for damage to appear, start protecting your skin now. Daily sunscreen use is a small habit with a big impact on long-term skin health. Healthy skin is your future investment.
Want to find the right sunscreen for your skin type?
Consult directly with our dermatologists.
Call 021-3144989 or visit the Online Booking page of RS Abdi Waluyo
Resource :
- Micha JP, Bohart RD, Goldstein BH. A review of sunscreen in the prevention of skin cancer. Journal of Oncology Pharmacy Practice. 2025;0(0).
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Skin cancer prevention: Expert on the importance of sunscreen [Internet]. Boston (MA): Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health; 2023 [cited 2025 Jul 13]. Available from: https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/skin-cancer-prevention-expert-on-the-importance-of-sunscreen/ Healthgrades Editorial Staff. Sunscreen skepticism: Tips for addressing skin cancer misinformation [Internet]. Denver (CO): Healthgrades; 2024 [cited 2025 Jul 13]. Available from: https://resources.healthgrades.com/pro/hcp-cdi-suncreen-skepticism-tips-for-addressing-skin-cancer-misinformation
