Sunscreen isn’t just for summer it’s essential daily. UV rays penetrate clouds, reflect off surfaces and even reach your skin through windows. From historical sun protection methods to modern formulations, discover why SPF belongs in your daily skincare routine, rain or shine.
By Anje Hill
Sunscreen may seem modern, but skin protection has been a concern for centuries. In Sub-Saharan Africa, traditional methods included natural clay pastes, plant oils and light fabrics to shield against the sun, similar to today’s mineral sunscreens.
By the 20th century, sunscreen took shape. In 1938, Swiss chemist Franz Greiter developed one of the first modern formulas after suffering sunburn on Mount Piz Buin. Around the same time, L’Oréal founder Eugene Schueller created a sunscreen. During World War II, the U.S. military used a red petrolatum-based formula for soldiers in tropical climates. These early versions paved the way for today’s sunscreens, which protect against UVA, UVB and even blue light from screens.
Why You Need Sunscreen Every Season
Many people only think about sunscreen when they’re on holiday, but the truth is that UV rays don’t take a break when summer ends. Aesthetic medicine specialist Dr Alek Nikolic stresses that UV rays are present even on cloudy days, making daily sunscreen application essential. “Many believe they can’t get sunburned or suffer skin damage when cloudy or cold, this is a myth.
UV rays penetrate clouds, making sunscreen essential all year round. Medical representative and training expert Charmaine Burgers of Bioderma echoes this, adding that sun exposure affects more than just ageing and sunburn. Besides skin cancers and photoaging, sunlight also exacerbates conditions such as rosacea, acne, hyperpigmentation, and inflammatory skin issues.
1920
Following the publication of Coco Chanel’s famous Mediterranean cruise photographs, the concept of
“sunbathing” and tanning gained popularity in Western culture. Tanned skin became a sign of health and a privileged lifestyle.
SPRING UV levels rise as the weather warms up. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays penetrate through clouds and reach your skin. A common misconception is that sunscreen blocks vitamin D production. Dr Alek clarifies, “Even with a high SPF, UV rays penetrate enough to stimulate vitamin D formation. You don’t need prolonged sun exposure to get sufficient vitamin D.”
SUMMER The sun is at its strongest and you can burn in as little as 10 minutes without protection. Charmaine warns that reflections increase exposure. “Sand reflects around 15% of UV rays and water reflects 25%. Even at a depth of 40 cm underwater, you’re still exposed to 40% of surface-level UV radiation.” Dr Alek debunks another myth: “Tanning without burning does not mean your skin is safe. Even if you don’t burn, UV exposure accelerates ageing and increases the risk of skin cancer.”
AUTUMN Cooler temperatures can be misleading. Just because you don’t feel the heat doesn’t mean UV rays aren’t causing long-term damage. A common misconception is that darker skin tones don’t need sunscreen. Dr Alek stresses, “While darker skin has a higher natural SPF, it still requires sun protection to prevent pigmentation and long-term damage.”
WINTER Snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays; higher altitudes increase exposure. “The intensity of UV radiation increases with altitude; UV levels rise by approximately 2% for every 100 meters of altitude
increase. That’s why sun protection is just as crucial for skiing as it’s for a summer beach day,” Charmaine explains.
The Ozone Layer is Thinning – What Does This Mean for You?
The ozone layer acts as Earth’s natural sunscreen, but pollution has weakened it, allowing more UV rays to reach us. Experts now recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30, although many dermatologists suggest using SPF 50 or higher for daily wear.
Charmaine highlights that most people don’t apply enough sunscreen, meaning their actual protection
is lower than expected. “Choosing a higher SPF helps compensate for under-application. Look for formulas with strong UVA protection and added antioxidants to reinforce the skin’s self-defence.”
Your Phone, Laptop and TV Are Damaging Your Skin Too!
Did you know your gadgets could be ageing your skin? Phones, laptops, TVs, and even LED lights emit blue light, also known as High-Energy Visible (HEV) light. Research suggests that blue light penetrates more deeply than UV rays, potentially leading to premature wrinkles, pigmentation and dull skin.
The good news? Many modern sunscreens include blue light protection, making daily SPF even more essential. Dr Nikolic recommends formulas containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which reflect
UV and blue light.
Are you using sunscreen correctly?
You might be missing a few key steps. Here’s a quick refresher:
Apply Enough. You need a teaspoon for your face and about a shot glass full for your body.
Don’t Forget These Areas. Ears, neck, hands, tops of feet, and even your scalp if you have thinning hair.
Reapply Often. Sunscreen wears off, especially if you’re sweating or touching your face. Reapply every two hours and after swimming or wiping your skin.
Use It Indoors Too. UV rays pass through windows and blue light from screens contributes to additional exposure.
Daily application is key!
Sunscreen is non-negotiable. Whether it’s summer or winter, clear skies or overcast, daily SPF is one of the best ways to protect your skin from premature ageing, sun damage and even blue light exposure. Make sunscreen part of your routine, your future self will thank you!
