The 5 Main Benefits of Sunscreen - Why Sun Cream is Irreplaceable!

If you read our blogs and skincare guides regularly, you've likely heard us recommend regular sunscreen use many times.

But what benefits does it actually offer?

If we had to advise someone to do one single thing to improve their skincare, it would be to use sunscreen daily. That even applies to people that live in places with cold weather - as the sun still shines through clouds and causes damage.

If you're outside and not wearing sunscreen, your skin is being exposed to unnecessary damage. 100% of the time.

Let's look at the 5 most important benefits of daily sunscreen use:

Reduced Sunburn

This might be the most obvious benefit of sunscreen, but it is also one of the most important. The sun's UV rays can cause dry skin, irritation, even skin cancer. But even a short exposure that doesn't cause any of these issues could cause sunburn.

Even mild sunburn can cause irritation, dry skin, ongoing redness, greasiness, acne and many other issues.

Smooth & Even Complexion

Sun damage can not only cause damage to your skin, but the damage or reduction in keratin can mean you recover more slowly from this damage, which can lead to uneven skin, breakouts, bumps etc.

Daily sunscreen use will dramatically reduce this damage while also protecting your keratin stores, keeping your skin smooth and even in the long term.

Reduced Signs of Aging

For many, this is the most important aspect of skincare - but the sun itself can be one of the biggest factors in aging.

Sun exposure can cause wrinkles, fine lines, and in the longer term, skin that has a leathery texture.

Using sunscreen will help reduce these signs of aging and keep you looking younger and healthier.

Reduced Cancer Risk

The most common cause of skin cancer is overexposure to the sun, with sunbed use also being a common cause. 

This should tell you all you need to know in regards to the risks the sun poses to your skin and overall health.

Melanoma especially, is an aggressive form of skincare that is commonly fatal, especially for women in their 20s.

It's worth mentioning that sunscreen's ability to protect you from skin cancer is cumulative, and builds up over time. One use is unlikely to make any difference whatsoever, so consistency is key.

General Skin Health

The skin contains essential proteins such as keratin. Keratin's main function is to help the skin recover and repair itself after being damaged. 

Overexposure to the sun doesn't just damage your skin - it damages your keratin stores too, reducing your skin's ability to recover afterwards.

If you are in the sun regularly, this can lead to perpetual issues.

Sunscreen will not only protect your skin and mitigate this damage, but protect your keratin stores too - meaning your skin may already be working on repairing any damage before you even know it's taken place.

Conclusion

Many people are averse to the idea of wearing sunscreen daily.

Some sunscreens can be greasy and uncomfortable to wear, and have a strong smell that isn't particularly pleasant.

Thankfully, new products are developed every day and there are many available that are none of the above - it is best to do some research and find the ideal one for you.

There is no need to go any higher than 50 SPF - although it's best to stay at 30 as a minimum.

Broad spectrum as a must, as this means it will protect you from all of the sun's harmful rays, rather than just a few.