Do You Still Need Sunscreen if you are Spending the Day Indoors?

Do You Need Sunscreen Indoors?

The short answer, yes! I'm the first to admit that I became a bit lazy with applying my SPF when I worked from the office, yet SPF skin protection is vital, no exceptions. Even though we may not be getting outside as frequently, the suns UVA rays are very smart and are able to penetrate glass. These UVA rays are responsible for premature skin ageing and are definitely something you want to block. In fact, a good quality skincare sunscreen should be the non-negotiable in any anti aging skin care routine. This means that although you may not be out in the sunshine, the UV rays are still able to cause your skin to suffer.

What Are the Impacts of UVA Sun Exposure?

• Premature skin aging
• Sunspots
• Pigmentation
• Fine lines
• Wrinkles

Why Is UVA Bad For The Skin?

When referencing UVA rays, it is important to note that UVB rays (the rays that cause sunburn and can sometimes lead to skin cancer) generally do not usually penetrate glass. Although, if you did decide to get outside in the sunshine on your lunch break, hang out the washing or exercise outdoors before work, this is when those UVB rays could cause serious damage to your skin. These UV rays can have long term negative impacts for your skin, therefore, wearing an SPF is crucial! A broad-spectrum sunscreen will provide you with enough protection to ensure you discourage premature ageing and keep your skin protected at all hours of the day.

What is Blue Light?

We have covered UVA and UVB rays, but you may not have considered blue light radiation. This is the high energy visible light (HEV light) that escapes from your devices and screens. As we are spending more hours than ever before in front of our devices, this blue light can have some negative effects on the skin also. These include dark spots, melasma and also inflammation in the skin. The good news is, this indoor skin-ager can be stopped in its tracks with an SPF containing Zinc oxide. The Zinc benefits for skin are extensive as this ingredient is effective in blocking the visible light spectrum, including the blue light emitted from your devices.

5 Best Sunscreens for Protecting the Skin

As we have discovered, it is crucial to still wear SPF even if spending all day indoors. UVA, UVB and Blue Light can have detrimental effects on the skin, therefore, we have compiled a list of our top five sunscreens. All of the below products contain Zinc oxide to ensure that the product also protects against nasty blue light!

1. ASAP SPF50+ Moisturising Defence

Enriched with Aloe Vera, this SPF50+ moisturiser provides immense hydration as well as broad spectrum UV protection. The non-greasy formulation means that this applies to the skin with ease, without any white residue. Moreover, this product is a multi-tasker becoming a primer, moisturiser and sunscreen by combining the SPF inside its hydrating cream. This means that you are able to get three products in one and can eliminate additional steps in your skincare routine.

Shop ASAP SPF50+ Moisturising Defence

2. Medik8 Physical Sunscreen SPF50+

This physical sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection against UV rays penetrating the skin. Moreover, the formulation effectively contains Zinc oxide and Titanium dioxide to effectively defend against signs of photoaging via physical blockers. The formula is 100% nano free, which ensures it has a lightweight, velvety texture and is easy to apply and wear without leaving any residue. Finally, this sunscreen is enriched with a range of antioxidants promoting skin youthfulness and a glowing complexion.

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3. Alpha-H Daily Essential Moisturiser SPF 50+

This Alpha-H three in one product here that can be used as a sunscreen, moisturiser or a primer (or all of the mentioned!). Formulated to protect against premature ageing and skin dryness, this hydrating moisturiser provides long-lasting protection and nourishment to send dehydration packing. Enriched with vitamin E and Aloe Vera, this product is even suitable for sensitive skin as it soothes and locks in moisture. Moreover, this product also delivers high antioxidant protection for your skin making it a must-have daily addition.

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4. Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense SPF30

This Dermalogica formulation is 100% vegan, paraben-free, cruelty-free and contains no artificial colours or fragrances... it ticks all the boxes! This lightweight, physical sunscreen is enriched with ultra-sheer, non-whitening Zinc Oxide to help soothe and protect the skin. Moreover, this product also helps defend the skin against environmental and blue light damage to ensure your skin is well protected on all bases.

Shop Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense SPF30

5. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Dry Touch Tinted SPF 50+

Blemished and breakout prone skin needs targeted skin care for acne to ensure flare ups and sensitivity are kept at bay. We think this could be the best sunscreen for oily skin as this La Roche-Posay SPF boasts a super comfortable dry touch formula, minus any residue that sunscreens typically leave behind. Furthermore, the gel-cream formula is non-comedogenic and is further enhanced by Airlicium, an anti-sweat molecule that mattifies the tint. The icing on the cake is the sheer skin tone balancing tint that leaves the skin looking radiant and healthily protected.

Shop La Roche-Posay Anthelios Dry Touch Tinted SPF 50+