Asger Risom
Daily sun protection might feel like overkill, but experts insist it’s your best defense against aging and skin cancer.
As the weather warms up and Memorial Day weekend kicks off the unofficial start of summer, it’s natural to reach for the sunscreen. But dermatologists want you to reach for it every day—regardless of the season or forecast.
Applying sunscreen daily might seem excessive when skies are gray or you’re indoors.
However, experts say it’s a simple habit that can significantly reduce your risk of premature aging and skin cancer over time.
Why sunscreen matters year-round
Even on cloudy days or in the dead of winter, UV rays still reach your skin. According to dermatologist Dr. Sameer Gupta, ultraviolet light penetrates clouds and even windows, making daily protection essential.
“UV exposure is 365 days out of the year,” said Gupta in an interview with Popular Science. “Whether it’s raining, cloudy or totally clear sky, UV exposure comes through.”
The damage from UVA and UVB rays includes not just sunburn and skin cancer, but also wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and breakdown of collagen.
UVA rays, which make up 95% of UV radiation, even pass through glass and cause long-term aging. UVB rays are more intense, responsible for burns and most skin cancers.
Building the habit is key
Some dermatologists acknowledge that skipping sunscreen on low-UV days—like when you’re indoors all day in winter—can be okay. But they emphasize the importance of consistency.
“It might be a UV index of 2 when you leave the house at 9 AM, but it could be 4 by midday,” said Dr. Abigail Waldman. “It’s better to build the daily habit than rely on the weather.”
For easy tracking, most weather apps show the daily UV index. Experts recommend applying sunscreen any day the index is 3 or higher.
What to look for in a sunscreen
The most important sunscreen is the one you’ll actually use. Look for an SPF of 30 or higher with “broad spectrum” coverage—this means it blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
“The best sunscreen is one you’re willing to apply and reapply,” said Gupta. “Find one with a texture or smell you like.”
And yes, reapplying is critical. Sunscreen breaks down due to sweat, water, or simply time.
Waldman added:
“If you’re out in the sun, your sunscreen is basically just moisturizer after two hours.
A simple daily routine that pays off
Regular sunscreen use isn’t just about beach days. It’s a long-term investment in your skin health—and your future self will thank you for it.
Whether you’re commuting, gardening, or walking the dog, a quick application in the morning could help you avoid costly, painful skin problems years down the road.
And as the dermatologists make clear, the science is simple: yes, you really do need sunscreen every day.