Wearing Sunscreen When Staying Indoors: Must or Bust?

At this point, most people already understand the importance of protecting their skin from the harmful rays of the sun. With modern sun defenders like sunblock and sunscreen, we are pretty safe with the right habits.

In terms of picking sunblock or sunscreen, medical experts don’t generally have a preference. The only difference is how they protect your skin, either chemically or physically. It is crucial to know that the main factors to consider are the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) and active protection against UVA and UVB rays.

Sometimes, sunblock is considered better for sensitive skin, whereas sunscreen is deemed more lightweight. So, the question is whether or not you are supposed to wear sunscreen when you’re indoors.

Is Sunscreen Necessary Indoors?

Generally speaking, yes. Sure, you may need to consider how much you’ll be sweating and whether or not you’ll be underground and the like. There are many factors that you need to take into account since not every situation is the same.

However, if you’re going to be in any place with windows that will still expose you to any sunlight streaming in, it’s best to wear sunscreen or sunblock. If you don’t want to feel too stuffy, you can use lightweight moisturising sunscreen for everyday use.

The reason this is needed is that UVA rays can still penetrate your windows. On top of that, the heat brought on by the sun’s rays can damage your skin.

Of course, you must take your sun exposure into account. If you are in a completely closed-off space with no means of external light coming in, you may not need to apply sunscreen.

As a rule of thumb, you should not go below SPF 30 for indoor use. It is even recommended to go for SPF 50 to be sure. Then, make sure your product is “broad-spectrum,” which means it blocks both UVA and UVB rays.

How Often Do You Need to Reapply Indoors?

Since you are indoors, you only really have to worry about any parts of your skin that won’t be covered up. Usually, this means your face, chest, neck, and hands. If you’re concerned about blocking your pores, you can use formulated sunblock for the face.

If you are near windows, you’ll want to reapply every two hours. Otherwise, you can cut this down to around twice a day. Of course, the times you reapply will increase depending on your activities. For instance, sweating or bathing will require you to put on your sunscreen or sunblock again.

Sunscreen and Blue Light

Though you may be protected from the harmful effects of natural light, you are likely exposed to a lot of blue light indoors. This comes from phones, laptops, TVs, LED lighting, and any other digital screens and electronic devices.

Although these obviously come at a less intense degree than from the sun, it is still necessary to stay protected against its negative effects. Certain products are said to be helpful against this if they contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

Final Thoughts

Basically, wear sunscreen or sunblock when indoors, especially if you’re around windows. This will help protect your skin from UV rays and blue light from electronics. Also, consider replenishing your skin with moisturiser, especially if you are going to be using your devices often.

Use a lightweight moisturising sunscreen that defends your skin against harmful UV rays every day. Check out our products on NUViT for SPF 50+ goods that use science-based bioavailable formulation.