Just because the sun isn’t directly shining over you, does not mean you’re any less protected from the harsh effects of it. One of the most common skincare myths there is, assuming you don’t need sunscreen on cloudy days, or if you’re indoors.
The short answer? No. you should not skip sunscreen on cloudy days.
Here’s the thing, nuance also matters. How much SPF you need depends on your daily routine, your lifestyle.
In this article, we give you simplified answers, explain UV indexes, and how being indoors also means you’re exposed to the harsh effects of UV.
So if you’ve ever wondered why you’re skin is still affected on cloudy days and indoors, this article breaks down why you need sunscreen on cloudy days with science-backed evidence and not just a simple yes or no! May
Can UV Rays Penetrate Clouds?
The answer is yes.
-
UV rays are divided into two, UVA and UVB. Clouds partially block UVB rays. UVB is responsible for immediate sunburn, tanning.
-
In particular, UVA penetrates deeper and can penetrate through clouds and still affect us on cloudy days.
-
UVA rays are responsible for long term ageing, tanning and pigmentation.
-
Clouds can block visible light, but not UV rays.
-
While clouds can reduce infrared radiation (heat), they are less effective in blocking out UV. This is why you can be sunburned even if it feels cool.
Scientific Evidence on Cloud Cover & UV Exposure
Let’s break down the science on cloud cover and UV exposure.
Studies have shown that up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate through clouds and into your skin.
Did you know that even scattered clouds can sometimes increase the UV levels on the surface by up to 25%, compared to clearer skies. This is due to the “broken-cloud effect,” where sunlight reflects off cloud edges.
Cloudy days can still cause significant sun damage. Some studies even show that there’s a 40% increase in DNA damage on cloudy days, than clear sky days, making sunscreen an absolute essential during cloudy days. (National Library of Medicine)
Why You Still Need Sunscreen on Cloudy Days
Here’s why you shouldn’t skip sunscreen even when the sky is cloudy.
Invisible Skin Damage
-
The risks of sun damage isn’t always immediate. They are often invisible damage that you don’t really notice, doesn’t make them any less harmful.
-
Sun damage causes premature ageing (photoageing) , stubborn pigmentation, collagen and elastin breakdown in the skin
Long-Term Risks
-
Sun damage can have long-term effects on your skin.
-
Prolonged sun exposure can increase skin cancer risk and even DNA damage over time.
How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Daily Use
Picking the right sunscreen is not just about SPF levels, it’s about choosing the right one that feels right for you to wear daily and comfortably. Follow this easy guide on choosing the right sunscreen for your daily use.
Lightweight Formulas for Everyday Wear
-
Choose lightweight formulas that are airy and fast absorbing and stays comfortable all day
-
Look for non greasy and non sticky finish
SPF 30 vs 50
-
SPF 30 blocks out approximately 97% of UV rays
-
SPF 50 blocks out approximately 98% of UV rays
-
Dermatologists recommend an SPF 30 (minimum) for short term or indirect sun exposure and SPF 50 for anyone spending prolonged time outdoors under sun exposure.
Broad Spectrum Protection
-
When looking for a sunscreen, ensure you choose one that offers broad spectrum protection.
-
This means that your sunscreen protects your skin from both UVA+ UVB rays. UVA penetrates deeper into your skin and causes stubborn and long term pigmentation, ageing and even cellular damage.
If you’re a beginner, wondering where to begin with choosing the right sunscreen, here’s an ultimate dermatologist-approved guide on how to choose the best sunscreen for you, to protect your skin the right way.
Common Myths About Sunscreen and Weather
Let’s bust some common misconceptions about sunscreen and weather
“Clouds block UV rays”
Fact: UV rays, particularly UVA rays, penetrate through clouds and can still harm your skin. 80-90% of UV can still penetrate cloud cover
Clouds block visible light, but are less effective in blocking out UV rays, making sunburn, pigmentation, tanning as well as DNA damage possible.
“You only need sunscreen at the beach”
Fact: This is a common but dangerous myth. Even short term sun exposure from daily commutes, walks, driving and sitting indoors, near the glass window, can accumulate and cause long term sun damage.
With up to 80-90% of sunscreen being able to penetrate through clouds, wearing sunscreen should not be only for beach vacations. It’s for daily protection against long-term damage.
“Darker skin doesn’t need sunscreen”
Fact: Even though there’s higher melanin content in darker skin tones, which is the skin’s natural defence against UV radiation, it is absolutely essential for people with darker skin tones to wear sunscreen.
While the higher melanin content provides some natural defence, their ability to block out damage is insufficient. Making everyone, regardless of their skin tone, are equally prone to UV- induced pigmentation, tanning and premature ageing.
Before choosing the best sunscreen for you, understanding the truth of how sunscreens work and why daily application matters is of key importance in protecting your skin the right way.
Final Verdict: Should You Wear Sunscreen Every Day?
YES! You should wear sunscreens not only every day, but also when you’re indoors. UV rays, particularly UVA penetrate through clouds and even glass windows. Whether you’re taking short commutes to work, driving or even working indoors, you NEED sunscreen.
When it comes to choosing the right sunscreen for Indian heat and weather, here’s what you look for
-
Lightweight texture
-
Non-greasy formula
-
Fast absorbing
-
Broad Spectrum protection (UVA+ UVB)
-
SPF 30 minimum and SPF 50 for more prolonged time outdoors and direct sun exposure.
This is where gel- based formulas from Deconstruct steal the spotlight. Their gel-based lightweight formulas with non-greasy textures are engineered to feel comfortable and airy throughout the day for Indian heat and humidity. They are broad-spectrum SPF 50 and PA rated for a well-rounded protection for your skin to prevent any signs of long term damage.
FAQs
Can you get sunburnt on a cloudy day?
Yes, you absolutely can. Upto 80-90% UV can penetrate cloud cover and damage your skin, leading to sunburn, tanning and premature ageing. And although clouds can reduce heat (infrared radiation), it does not block out UV radiation, making it possible to be sunburnt even if it feels cool.
What percentage of UV rays pass through clouds?
Upto 80% of UV rays can penetrate cloud cover. Even with light and scattered clouds, it can be upto 90%
Do I need sunscreen indoors?
Yes, you need to wear sunscreens indoors, or when you’re near glass windows as UV rays, particularly UVA, can penetrate through glass and cause UV- induced sun damage.
Is sunscreen necessary in winter?
Yes, sunscreen is absolutely necessary in winter. For winter, choose cream-based sunscreens for deep hydration along with broad-spectrum protection
What SPF is best for daily use?
If you’re looking for the best sunscreen for daily use, choose daily
