The argument on whether or not one should wear sunscreen indoors has caught on as people are becoming increasingly aware of the reasons why they should use sunscreen. Sunscreens have long been equated with outdoor activities such as beach days or sports events. But given the rise in indoor time brought about by changed lifestyles, everyone is now wondering: should you wear sunscreen inside the house?
This blog will discuss the need for sunscreen at home, its advantages, and whether broad-spectrum sunscreen indoors is necessary. Science Direct
What Happens When You Apply Sunscreen Indoors?
Sunscreen acts as a protective shield, blocking or reflecting ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. While being indoors reduces direct exposure, UV rays can still penetrate through windows and artificial light sources. This makes many wonder: is it necessary to apply sunscreen at home? Europe PMC
• Windows block most UVB rays but allow UVA rays, which contribute to skin ageing and pigmentation.
• Screen blue light causes oxidative stress that ends up causing wrinkles and fine lines.
• Some newer windows enable a degree of penetration by UV light, putting people at greater cumulative risk for damage to their skin.
So do we use sunscreen in the house? If you have many hours of window proximity or exposure to artificial blue light, then carrying around a broad-spectrum sunscreen is useful.
Do You Need a Full-Spectrum Sunscreen Indoors?
• Full-spectrum (broad-spectrum) sunscreen guards against UVA and UVB rays. Though less exposure occurs indoors, extended exposure can affect skin health nonetheless.
• UVA rays can penetrate more deeply into the skin, leading to premature ageing.
• Blue light from screens is responsible for hyperpigmentation and fine lines.
• Indoor long-term exposure can boost skin cancer threats.
Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen indoors reduces these risks. "Is sunscreen good for your skin inside?". Applying it regularly guards against skin ageing and damage from extended indoor exposure.
Do You Need to Reapply Sunscreen Indoors?
While reapplication every two hours outdoors is important, indoor use of sunscreen differs:
• If you are sitting near windows, reapply every 4-6 hours.
• For prolonged screen exposure, use a light sunscreen to be applied every 6-8 hours.
• For sweating or wiping your face, reapply.
People ask, "How long does SPF 50 remain on the face indoors?" SPF 50 normally lasts 8 hours indoors but will need to be reapplied depending on skin type and exposure.
Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreen – Which is Better Indoors? Wiley
• When determining when to use sunscreen, whether to use chemical or mineral sunscreen is important.
• Chemical Sunscreens: Convert UV photons into heat by absorbing them. Light and can be worn daily.
• Mineral Sunscreens: Have zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as their active ingredient, creating a physical barrier that bounces UV rays. Ideal for sensitive skin.
For day use, sunscreens containing minerals with niacinamide may be useful as they provide instant protection and minimize pigmentation.
Can We Use Sunscreen at Night?
A question that comes to everyone's mind is, "Can we use sunscreen at night?" Sunscreen is not needed at night, but using a moisturizer that contains antioxidants in the evening repairs UV damage. If sunscreen is applied at night, it must be a lightweight, non-comedogenic one to prevent pores from getting clogged.
Conclusion
Wearing sunscreen indoors may sound like overkill, but blue light and UV exposure build up over the years. Whatever time you're spending in front of windows or screens, indoor sunscreen at home is a must for avoiding premature ageing, pigmentation, and skin damage.
FAQs
1. Should you wear sunscreen when indoors?
Yes, to guard against exposure to blue light from screens and UVA rays.
2. Is sunscreen necessary indoors in India?
Yes, particularly if you use screens or are close to windows for extended periods.
3. Is sunscreen good for your skin inside?
Indeed, it guards against pigmentation, fine wrinkles, and long-term UV damage.
4. What are the side effects of sunscreen?
Certain sunscreens may irritate skin, trigger allergies, or cause outbreaks.
5. Does staying inside make your skin lighter?
While tanning is lessened by staying inside, skin can only be brightened with the right skincare and sun protection.
Now that you understand the need for sunscreen inside, incorporate it into your regular skincare regimen, whether you're at home or out!