What Does Sunscreen Do?

Sunscreen acts like a shield between your skin and the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.

There are two main types of UV rays you need to know about:

• UVA rays: These penetrate deep into the skin and cause early aging like wrinkles and sagging.
• UVB rays: These affect the surface of the skin and cause sunburns.

Good sunscreen protects you from both UVA and UVB rays (this is called “broad-spectrum” protection). Without sunscreen, your skin is exposed to these damaging rays every time you step outside — and even when you’re indoors if sunlight is coming through windows.

Sunscreen prevents:

• Sunburn
• Dark spots and uneven skin tone
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Loss of skin elasticity
• Serious problems like skin cancer

In short, sunscreen keeps your skin looking young, healthy, and beautiful.

The Invisible Damage You Don’t See

One of the scariest things about sun damage is that you don’t notice it immediately. You might get a tan or a slight burn and think it’s harmless, but the real damage happens deep inside your skin.

Over time, UV rays break down collagen and elastin, which are the proteins that keep your skin firm and smooth. This is why people who spend a lot of time in the sun without protection often develop deep wrinkles, rough skin texture, and sagging much earlier.

Also, UV rays can damage your skin’s DNA. This increases the risk of skin cancer, including dangerous types like melanoma. The damage adds up slowly, day after day — even on cloudy days or when you’re indoors near windows.

That’s why sunscreen isn’t just for the beach — it’s a daily must.

Why Other Skincare Products Depend on Sunscreen

You might be spending a lot of money on skincare — serums, anti-aging creams, brightening treatments — and still feel like you’re not seeing much improvement. Here’s the truth: none of it matters if you skip sunscreen.

Products like:

• Vitamin C serums (for brightening and antioxidant protection)
• Retinol creams (for anti-aging and acne)
• Moisturizers and anti-wrinkle creams

All work to repair and improve your skin. But if you’re exposing your skin to UV rays without protection, the sun will undo all that progress. It’s like trying to fill a bucket that has a big hole in it — no matter how much effort you put in, you won’t see lasting results.

In fact, ingredients like retinol and AHAs make your skin more sensitive to the sun, meaning sunscreen becomes even more important if you’re using active treatments.

Protect your investment in your skincare by making sunscreen your best friend.

Myths About Sunscreen

Let’s clear up a few common myths that cause people to skip sunscreen:

1. “I don’t need sunscreen indoors.”

• Wrong. UVA rays can pass through windows. If you’re sitting near a window at home, in the office, or in a car, you’re still exposed.

2. “I have dark skin, so I don’t need sunscreen.”

• Not true. While darker skin has more melanin (natural protection), it’s still vulnerable to UV damage, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer.

3. “I only need sunscreen when it’s sunny.”

• Clouds block sunlight, but not UV rays. Up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds. You need sunscreen even on overcast days.

4. “Makeup with SPF is enough.”

• Makeup usually doesn’t have enough SPF to fully protect you, and we don’t apply enough makeup to get full coverage. You still need a separate sunscreen underneath.

Don’t let these myths fool you. Consistent sunscreen use is key to healthy skin, no matter your environment, weather, or skin tone.

Choosing and Using Sunscreen Properly

Now that you know how important sunscreen is, it’s time to use it the right way.

What to Look for:

• SPF 30 or higher: SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays. Higher SPFs provide a little more protection, but no sunscreen blocks 100%.
• Broad-spectrum: This protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
• Water-resistant: Especially important if you’re swimming or sweating.

How to Use It:

• Apply generously: Most people don’t use enough. You need about a nickel-sized amount for your face alone, and a shot glass amount for your whole body.
• Reapply every 2 hours: Sunscreen wears off with time, sweat, and movement. Reapply even if it’s cloudy.
• Apply 15 minutes before going outside: Give it time to sink in and form a protective barrier.

Pro Tip:

Make sunscreen part of your morning routine — like brushing your teeth. Once it becomes a habit, it’s easy and automatic.

The Best Skincare Products and Services at AbyAshland

Looking for reliable, high-quality skincare products that actually care for your skin?

At AbyAshland, we believe in simple, effective, and protective skincare — and that always starts with sunscreen.

Whether you’re looking for:

• Lightweight sunscreens that feel amazing on the skin
• Anti-aging serums that work hand-in-hand with sun protection
• Personalized skincare routines that fit your skin type

AbyAshland has you covered. Our products are carefully chosen to nourish, protect, and enhance your skin’s natural beauty — because true skincare means long-term results, not quick fixes.

You deserve skincare that respects your skin’s health. Trust AbyAshland to help you glow today and protect your beauty for tomorrow.

Conclusion

Sunscreen isn’t just another skincare product — it’s the foundation of any routine. It prevents invisible damage, protects you from serious health risks, and keeps your skin youthful and strong. No serum, moisturizer, or treatment can fully work without it.

Start making sunscreen your daily habit today — and your future self will thank you for it.

And if you want the best care for your skin, don’t forget to check out AbyAshland — your trusted partner in skincare protection and beauty.

Protect now, glow forever! 🌟