Sunscreen: Why You Should Use It Even Indoors And On Cloudy Days

Using sunscreen is essential every day, even indoors and in adverse weather conditions, explains Dr. Susana Canalizo, president of the Mexican Foundation for Dermatology (FMD).

Dr. Susana Canalizo, president of the Mexican Foundation for Dermatology (FMD), emphasizes that using sunscreen should be a daily habit, regardless of whether you are indoors or outdoors, or the weather conditions.

“It’s essential to apply sunscreen half an hour before leaving home and reapply it frequently to ensure its effectiveness,” the expert emphasizes.

Water, sweat, and UV radiation are factors that reduce the protection of sunscreen . Therefore, when visiting pools or beaches, it’s crucial to reapply the product after each contact with water, even if it’s water-resistant.

Failure to do so increases the risk of burns, skin blemishes, and, in the long term, the development of benign tumors or skin cancer.

Solar radiation: a silent enemy

Ultraviolet radiation causes cumulative damage to skin cells, which can lead to serious problems over time. “Avoiding direct sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. is essential, as the radiation is most intense during this period,” warns Canalizo.

The dermatologist recommends using sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 50, especially during sports activities, as sweating reduces the product’s effectiveness. She also emphasizes the importance of reapplying sunscreen every two hours to maintain adequate protection against UV rays.

Skin care from childhood

Sun protection habits should be instilled from an early age. Although children’s skin has a greater capacity for recovery, cellular damage is irreversible and accumulates over time, increasing the risk of developing malignant lesions in the future.

To protect yourself from solar radiation, Canalizo suggests not only the consistent use of sunscreen, but also physical measures such as protective clothing, long sleeves, and hats. These practices should be maintained both outdoors and indoors, where artificial light and monitors also emit radiation.

Dermatological consultation: a pillar of skin care

The skin is one of the body’s most sensitive organs and requires constant attention to avoid irreparable damage. “Skin care should begin in the first years of life and continue throughout life, always under the supervision of dermatologists,” concludes Canalizo.

Incorporating sun protection into your daily routine is essential for preserving skin health and preventing serious diseases such as skin cancer.