Wearing sunscreen every day: a necessity or just a marketing ploy?
The daily use of sunscreen raises questions: does it prevent us from enjoying the benefits of the sun for vitamin D production? Between preconceived ideas and scientific data, here is everything you need to know to protect your skin without giving up the benefits of moderate sun exposure.
What are the recommendations? from the Skin Cancer Foundation ?
The short answer: everyone! Men, women, and children over 6 months of age should apply sunscreen every day. This includes people who tan easily and those who don't—remember, your skin suffers damage from sun exposure throughout your life, whether you get sunburned or not.
Babies under 6 months are the only exception: their skin is extremely sensitive. Avoid the sun for them; choose shade structures and sun-protective clothing to protect them effectively.
Link to the article on skincancer.org
What are the recommendations of the American Academy of Dermatology?
When should you use sunscreen?
It is recommended to apply sunscreen daily to areas of skin not covered by clothing. if you spend time outdoors. The sun's harmful UV rays are present all year round. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate the clouds.
How much sunscreen should you use and how often should you apply it?
- Apply enough sunscreen to cover all exposed areas of your skin. Most adults need about 30 ml (the equivalent of a shot glass) to cover their entire body.
- Don't forget the areas that are often overlooked: the tops of your feet, your neck, your ears, and your scalp.
- Apply sunscreen to dry skin at least 15 minutes before going outside.
- Lips are also vulnerable, so protect them with a balm or lipstick containing SPF 30 or higher.
- When outdoors, reapply sunscreen every two hours, or after swimming or sweating, following the product instructions.
The link to the article in the’American Academy of Dermatology
What are my recommendations?
I recommend that you apply a sunscreen every day !
The two exceptions:
- If you are staying at home and are not near a window, sunscreen is not essential.
- If the UV index is below 3 and your exposure to the sun is low
The benefits of the sun: striking a balance
A natural source of energy and well-being
The sun has undeniable positive effects. Its ultraviolet (UV) rays promote the production of vitamin D by the skin, which is essential for bone health and proper body function. In addition, visible light stimulates the secretion of serotonin, a hormone that regulates mood and helps combat stress.
The underestimated dangers of prolonged exposure
According to Public Health France, skin cancers could be the most common cancer in France (archived link here). Each year, between 141,200 and 243,500 cases are diagnosed.
In more than 851 cases, they are attributable to « excessive exposure to natural or artificial ultraviolet (UV) rays» and can be avoided« through careful exposure" .
However, UV rays are not without risk. They damage the DNA of skin cells, which can lead to skin cancer in the long term. Each unprotected exposure adds cumulative damage, increasing the risk of dangerous mutations.
Sunscreen: ally or obstacle?
Protection against skin cancer
Dermatologists agree that there is no amount of unprotected sun exposure that is safe. Daily sun protection with an SPF of 30 or higher is recommended to prevent UV damage.
Impact on vitamin D production
A common misconception is that sunscreen completely blocks vitamin D synthesis. In reality, even when applying generous amounts of sunscreen, a small amount of UV rays still reach the skin, which is sufficient to produce the vitamin D needed by the body.
The influence of sunlight on mood and sleep
Light that boosts morale
Visible sunlight, which does not cause cellular damage like UV rays, is enough to improve mood. Spending time outdoors, even with sunscreen on, helps reduce stress and promotes a sense of well-being.
The sleep-wake cycle preserved
The circadian rhythm, regulated by exposure to light, depends mainly on the light perceived by the eyes, not by the skin. Therefore, wearing sunglasses or sunscreen does not alter this essential process.
Is it necessary to expose oneself to maximize vitamin D?
Food alternatives
Vitamin D can be obtained in ways other than through sun exposure. Foods such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel) and fortified products (milk, cereals) are reliable sources.
An uncompromising choice
Risks associated with a sun exposure without protection, particularly skin cancer, far outweigh the potential benefits. Adopting a sun protection routine does not mean sacrificing your health, but rather preserving it.
Wearing sunscreen every day is an essential habit for minimizing long-term risks while safely enjoying the benefits of the sun. Well-thought-out protection allows you to balance health, well-being, and peace of mind.
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