Sunscreen Myths vs Facts: Should You Wear Sunscreen Indoors?

But, while sunscreen is a staple in any daily skin care regimen, many people still aren’t sure when it’s appropriate to use it. The question many ask is, “Can you use sunscreen indoors? Some think that sunscreen should only be used when you are outside, others say you should apply it every morning.

These sunscreen myths and facts can help you make the right decisions for your skin. Let’s take a look at why you might need to wear sunscreen inside, when indoor UV exposure might be important and effective sun protection tips.

Sunscreen Myths vs Facts

Myth 1: You Do Not Need a Sunscreen

Fact: Sunscreen is mostly used to shield your skin from UV radiation, which is most potent outside. It’s not always sunny indoors, however.

Ordinary glass windows allow UVA rays through. The skin may get some UVA exposure if exposed to a sunny window for several hours, particularly in a home office, bedroom or car. One of the reasons why should you wear sunscreen indoors near windows is one of them.

The need for sunscreen indoors may be less if you don’t spend much time in front of windows and don’t get a lot of natural light. What you do (and don’t do) every day and what you see (and don’t see) matters.

Myth 2: You have to use indoor sunscreen all of the time

The fact is, not everyone needs to wear sunscreen indoors.

If you are working in a room that has little sun exposure, avoid windows or if you are at work most of the day in an area where there is not a significant amount of UV exposure, your exposure may not be very high.

Conversely, those who spend long periods of time in front of big windows may need sunscreen every day. This is also true for those who frequently sit in car windows that let in sunlight.

So, the question of whether sunscreen should be worn indoors would ultimately depend on the amount of daylight and UV radiation that you will be exposed to.

Myth 3: Windows Block All UV Rays

Fact: Although ordinary glass does not necessarily prevent all UVAs, windows can block a lot of UVB radiation.

UVB rays are tightly linked to sunburn and UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and are associated with photoaging. Since some types of glass allow UVA to pass through, extended time near windows might still be an issue.

Just because you’re sitting inside by a window doesn’t mean you’re doing the same as sitting outside for hours in the sun. The amount of exposure is typically different, but it’s still something to keep in mind as part of your sun-protection strategies.

Myth 4: Sunscreen is only to stop me from getting sunburnt

Fact: Sunscreen has more to offer than just preventing sunburn.

Using broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly can help to prevent UVB and UVA radiation. Individuals who want to avoid premature ageing, uneven pigmentation and other skin changes due to the cumulative effects of the sun should pay special attention to consistent sun protection.

Sunscreen is most effective when combined with other sun-protection practices such as use of shade, protective clothing, hats and avoidance of direct sun exposure at times when the sun is especially strong.

Myth 5: One application of sunscreen lasts all day.

Fact: Sunscreen does not last all day long.

There are many ways that sunscreen coverage can decrease, such as when we are outdoors, exercising, swimming, towel drying, or rubbing our skin. Reapplication may thus be required, especially with long-term outdoor exposure.

The need for reapplication may vary for individuals who do not spend a lot of time outdoors. When moving outdoors, in prolonged sunshine or when activities cause the removal of the suncream, it is necessary to reapply suncream according to the directions of the suncream.

How To Use Sunscreen Indoors?

If sun protection is something you’ve decided is appropriate for your indoor lifestyle, opt for a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen. Spread across exposed skin evenly, following product directions.

Be extra careful to cover the parts of the body that are exposed to sunlight on a frequent basis, like the face, neck, and other skin that is exposed.

Keep in mind that sunscreen should not be used as a replacement for other measures of protection. Stay in the shade and wear protective clothing if necessary when outside, particularly in strong sun.

Who is Outdoor Sunscreen Most Useful For?

Indoor sunscreen might be especially important for individuals who:

• Spend several hours close to sunny windows.
• Spend a lot of time next to large windows during the day.
• Regularly use and/or operate vehicles.
• Worry about repeated exposure to UV.
• Have been advised to take a very strict sun-protection regimen by a health care professional.

Applying sunscreen indoors might not be as important for others, particularly those who spend most of their time away from windows, and have little exposure to daylight.

Conclusion

So, do you need to apply sun cream indoors? There is no one right answer, it will depend on individual circumstances. For those who sit by windows for extended periods of time or who otherwise have a high sun-exposure risk indoors, a broad-spectrum sunscreen can be a convenient sun protection tool. Indoor sunscreen may not be as critical if you don’t have to spend much time indoors near windows.

The most crucial is to be familiar with your surroundings and practice proper sun protection when in the presence of UV radiation. One good tool is sunscreen, but shade, protective clothing and good sun exposure are all important.

Local Health Support is a platform which gives health-related information and support resources so that people can make informed decisions on their well-being and health.

Disclaimer

The information and education contained in this article is for general purposes only. Not a replacement of medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a medical professional. Many factors can affect an individual’s need for sun protection, such as skin type, medical history, medications, environment, etc. For any special concerns regarding sunscreen or UV exposure, see your trusted health care provider.

FAQs

1. Do you need to wear sun cream inside each day?

Not for all people. The choice will depend on how much daylight and UV radiation you will be exposed to. Those who spend a lot of time in front of windows that get a lot of sunlight may need to use sunscreen every day inside.

2. Do window tinted windows block the UVA rays?

Yes. Ordinary glass allows a certain amount of UVA radiation through, depending on what kind of glass the window is made of and the situation.

3. Would we need sunscreen in an unlighted room?

Very little exposure to daylight and away from windows may result in a decreased need for sunscreen indoors. Your routine should, however, change when you’re outdoors.

Do I have to re-apply sunscreen indoors?

Reapplication is dependent upon exposure and activity levels. It is even more important to re-apply if you are doing any of the following: Sweating, swimming or wiping your skin. Read and follow the instructions for your particular sunscreen product.