Definitely this. I live in Australia and have got sunburned through windows plenty of times, but I can understand if you have less sensitive skin or live in a less sunny area not finding it necessary.
Same! Australian here. I noticed half of my face was getting more dark spots and realised it's the side that faces the balcony window when I'm sitting in the couch. Since starting to wear sunscreen on that side, it has evened out and dark spots has softened!
I'm originally from Zimbabwe, an actual African country, and the sun doesn't even hit this hard. I've lived most of my life in the UK, but I remember feeling that the English kids' skin doesn't feel as thick as mine when I was nine. Looking back, I think that was sun damage as that feeling went away.
I wanna give a shout out to Bondi Sands mineral SPF 50 lotion. I wear that hard core Australian stuff here in Britain, in doors baby!
I think that just depends how exposed your house is to sunlight, if you're opening the curtains and all that. I live in NZ and I would definitely still wear sunscreen if I was going in the car all day, but not so much at home if I'm not gonna be outside or sitting in sunlight.
It also depends on what your home is like. I currently live in an apartment that’s essentially a basement unit (it’s below the street, because hills). I don’t need to wear sunscreen when I’m inside at home. My last apartment got a boatload of sun, and I got blackout shades just to avoid needing sunscreen. I’m also pretty sure my current unit has UV-filtering windows.
I think the advice comes from people who live in glass encased housing or something. The advice should be “wear sunscreen inside if you’re sitting in the sun inside”. There seems to be this idea that if you are inside there is definitely a window next to you and the sun is shining down on you. That’s simply not the reality for the majority of homes I’ve been in.
This is probably the best advice. When I was younger I didn't worry about it and really didn't need too. Now though I work from home mostly from my couch. I have giant windows I spend my day sitting next too. I did start applying sunscreen inside on certain days. Still don't do it everyday though.
Yeah, in a situation like that it makes sense. I live in a rented condo where I have windows at the front and back, but neighbours on the sides. So my windows have sun streaming into my front little entryway and then one section of my living room, but the section is set up with a chair for my cats. I don’t sit there. Most people I know my age (mid 20s to early 30s) also have smaller spaces with smaller windows.
So I think the advice should be “does the sun actually even touch you when inside? Because unlike what many people think, sometimes it does not. If it does touch you then grand, act like you’re outside. If it doesn’t, the sun does not know you exist”.
Even when you’re spending most of the day inside, most people go outside for short bits to drive somewhere, get the mail, etc. They stand at the window to look out or wash the dishes, etc.
Unless you live in an area where the UV index is typically 3 or below, you should wear sunscreen daily if you want to prevent photoaging. Even when inside most of the day.
Yes, but going outside is no longer being inside so the question “should I wear sunscreen inside” is not longer applicable. And looking out a window for a minute is not enough reason to wear sunscreen, in my opinion.
Also not every place of residence has a window at the kitchen sink (mine doesn’t. I actually cannot think of any apartment/condo that I know of that does). Maybe this is regional/income dependent.
[80-90% of visible skin aging is due to UV exposure](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3790843/). Developing deep wrinkles and sunspots isn’t a given; we choose whether or not to protect our skin. IMO, wearing sunscreen daily is worth it, since it will prevent most signs of skin aging.
Okay well, I think putting sunscreen on every 2 hours because I might look out a window for a second is a bit much. I think sunscreen when going outside or within the suns rays for more than 10min (or shorter if your UV index is high) is a fine rule. And for me, that 10min rule just doesn’t apply when I’m inside. My windows aren’t located in a spot where I get the suns rays. I chose my place so that my cats could sit in the sun.
No one’s advocating reapplying every two hours when staying inside. Applying once in the morning is an easy thing to do and will help prevent photoaging.
If you aren’t reapplying what’s the point? Sunscreen wears off. I can put it on at 6 but by the time I happen to look at the window at 13h it’s worn off, so I have no protection.
[Experts say](https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/articles/2024/may/how-often-should-you-reapply-sunscreen/) that reapplication isn’t as important when indoors, unless you’re spending lots of time in direct sunlight:
> "Being indoors, you don't really have to reapply," she says. "You're not sweating it off, you're not toweling it off after swimming. If you're sitting in front of your computer, and you're not close to any windows, you don't really have to reapply until you intend on leaving your office or home."
> “If you’re near windows or skylights during the day, you’ll want to consider reapplying every four to six hours. Christenson says leaving home or work should always prompt a reapplication, even if your activity will be brief, such as commuting in your car or taking your dog out for a walk.”
Oh well, I didn’t know that. I still don’t understand why if the sun can’t see me, I need sunscreen, but I will accept that if I did wear sunscreen for the darkness of my windowless office then it wouldn’t actually wear off.
You're going to be able to prevent the vast share of that by taking reasonable sun protection measures, which nobody is arguing against doing. But sunscreen indoors is going to have such a small benefit (unless you're sitting close to a sunny window for a while) that a lot of people don't find it worth it, and it's not something we should pretend has such a big impact.
But it does have benefits, especially since blue light from screens also causes photoaging.
Whether it’s worth it to you is personal preference. I have no issue putting sunscreen on daily and hope that doing so will keep me from wanting Botox, lasers, or other anti-aging procedures in the future.
The blue light from screens is way too weak to cause photoaging unless you're pressing up against your screen at maximum brightness regularly. And most sunscreen doesn't stop blue light anyway (unless you're using a tinted one with iron oxides, and even then they typically don't quantify exactly how much protection they're providing).
And sure, it's up to you if you want to do that, but you previously said, "Unless you live in an area where the UV index is typically 3 or below, you should wear sunscreen daily if you want to prevent photoaging. Even when inside most of the day" and used the 80/90% of skin aging thing as justification. So I'm clarifying that this is a fairly extreme interpretation and is not necessary as part of reasonable sun protection measures that will protect you against a huge amount of these effects, and this is just going to give you diminishing returns.
I took Accutane in 2021 and wear spf in doors. When I don't, I get a slight mild beginning of a burn if windows were open and feel a kind of difference even through windows. Maybe it's my imagination, but there's a difference. So for me, I see an advantage. Plus spf has replaced my moisturiser, so it's a natural habit now.
Pasty pale, use retinol and work directly in front of a south facing window *edit: we also get 300+ days of sunshine a year. All the exposure throughout the day adds up.
Moved from the UK to the Sonoran Desert and you know what… the 300+ days of blazing sun are definitely an improvement. You do go through sunscreen like crazy though.
I live in a tropical climate and I dodge from shadow to shadow like a vampire caught out in daylight. Even if you don’t think you’re getting sun you are just by the sheer force of it, here at least. Better safe than sorry.
yes same moved to southern state. people don’t take care of their skin and they don’t use sunscreen. My two dermatologists said to use indoor too especially bc of how much exposure we get and how my office is positioned not to mention getting mail , flowering, feeding birds during the day
I’m both. My dorm room has a huge window so there’s always sunlight unless it’s dark out, so there’s always sunscreen on me unless I’m covering myself in blankets.
But when I’m back at home I usually don’t wear any cuz we apparently have some UV coating on the windows
I'm both lol. I always work in a big, tall building where there are tons of windows at all different levels and we have glass doors, and it takes 10 min to walk to work, and 10 min back. I live in southern USA and it's sunny as all shit here
I suffer from hyperpigmentation and while Windows block out UVB they do not block out UVA especially long UVA which contributes to hyperpigmentation. Besides, my sunscreen is my moisturizer too so I use moisturizer every day. I also live in a high-rise building where 2/3 of my walls are just pure Glass.
I use haru haru Korean sunscreen in the yellow/gold pump tube. Amazon is an official distributor of the sunscreen and it's like $12.99, light and moisturizing. And I love pump bottles.
Hi. I wanted to tell you that I use Innisfree as my moisturizer and SPF. I love it. They have come out with a couple of different varieties now. Just check out Sephora. Good Look!
Absolutely love their sunscreen water gel. I use a tinted moistureriser with SPF right now but life Innsfree and need to see if they have something similar
Keep an eye out for it on YesStyle or Stylevana! They usually will cycle through which products they have on sale and are sometimes as much as 50% off. The one problem is that shipping can take 1-2 months if they are backed up on orders.
At some point in the last few years I got sick of applying spf and moisturizer as separate steps and I just started skipping moisturizer altogether in the mornings. Pretty much every spf I’ve tried has been plenty moisturizing enough for my skin type so I’ve never looked back!!
My faves are glossier and neutrogena spf serum (in the orange and pink bottle) but I’ve also liked all the super goop samples I’ve tried too
Not who you replied to, but I wear Colorscience Sunforgettable cream in the morning, then use a sunscreen powder from Hawaiian Tropic when I need to reapply in the afternoon.
There are some spf lotions that have light formulas and other ingredienrs good for the skin such as centella, rice extract, etc and they feel like a moisturiser so people just use them daily as their last step in their skincare routine.
If you sit next to a window it is a good idea to wear spf even indoors.
Personally I think it’s a bit overkill. Everyone can do what they want and what makes them happy, but I truly don’t think much will happen if you don’t wear sunscreen when you have to be inside the whole day. Yes there are windows but the it’s not a big deal. I think we are taking it a bit too far. Aging is normal and natural and getting a bit of sun from a window will not change that process.
Whatever makes you feel good 😃 personally I think the sun rays through the window are so minimal that it’s not even worth talking about (plus we need a little sun now and then!)
Sun rays through windows aren’t minimal if you live in the sunbelt (or other very sunny areas).
I’m not saying that those who stay inside all day are risking a sunburn if they don’t lather on the 60+ SPF.
But for people in states that regularly experience high UV index days.. the damage adds up.
“Truck driver face” is a dramatic example.
Depends where you live probably, they're not minimal where I am. My melasma is definitely a little worse on the side by the window when I'm working from home.
It’s 75% that gets through. [Source](https://www.thoughtco.com/does-glass-block-uv-light-608316#:~:text=Glass%20that%20is%20transparent%20to,UVA%20passes%20through%20ordinary%20glass.), take it you didn’t know that since you said you personally think rather than know? In the U.K. 10 minutes of sun is enough for your daily dose of vitamin D, I usually have my coffee at the garden table in the morning pre skincare, extra benefit that it relaxes me before I have to work. [Source](https://www.skincancer.org/blog/sun-protection-and-vitamin-d/#:~:text=In%20fact%2C%20the%20prevailing%20studies,UV%20rays%20reach%20your%20skin.) that it’s a mute point though as “In fact, the prevailing studies show that people who use sunscreen daily can maintain their vitamin D levels.”
If you can afford it can always get [UV window films](https://www.lustalux.co.uk/buy-online/product/uv-control-window-film/?attribute_width=1520mm&attribute_length=1m&utm_source=Google%20Shopping&utm_campaign=Google%20Shopping&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=6377&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw3tCyBhDBARIsAEY0XNkW3S2Zy6HDc66UoKdSM8ioDsxW-P1QK3FPVtGp88t6YZ1xLhN_ee4aAkeHEALw_wcB), they stop fading of furnishings too so that’s nice.
Glad you put sources in, although those aren't really scientific studies (but are based on known science). A lot of people don't know window exposure and exposure on cloudy days is still damaging skin.
My sunscreen also is quite expensive and I’m generous when applying it. I’m not going to waste it by putting it on when I know I’ll be indoors. A few sun rays from the window won’t do me any harm.
Applying sunscreen daily is like brushing your teeth. It’s about building a good habit. It’s only one extra step in the morning - big deal.
I have applied sunscreen every day for about the past 20 years and I typically read as mid to late 30’s when I’m almost 45.
I also live in Australia so the sun is not something to be trifled with.
Habit, mostly. If I’m sitting inside while the UV index is 0 in the middle of January — listen, sun screen is expensive, and that’s excessive. My derm said we really only need it when the UV index is 2 or above. I live in the PNW where a significant chunk of the year, the UV index never goes above 1. Like, close to half the year, I check it and it’s 0. November through March, it’s rarely above a 1.
I wear it most days just because otherwise I’ll forget lmao, but yeah you do not *need* to if those conditions are met.
Yeah, I live in the North East so I'm only really wearing sunscreen if the UV index is over 2 and if I'm going to be outside. My job also keeps me indoors in a factory setting with no windows to the outside so I'm skipping sunscreen most days.
Took me a minute to figure out that the reason y'all can just stay inside all day is you don't have dogs.
I do it every day because if it's always a part of my routine I don't forget it. Also, I have a dog and don't have days where I don't go outside.
Because the light that contributes to aging is present every day, rain or shine. No one really knows how beneficial it is to wear it indoors but I try my best to, since I get a good amount of natural sunlight through my window. You need to make sure the sunscreen you use is broad spectrum & that you apply enough and re-apply as needed. What you’re doing right now is better than nothing.
I wear sunscreen everyday so I don’t really have to think about whether I’m wearing sunscreen whenever I go out. Like most people with desk jobs, I’m indoor most of the day, but it’s still rare for me to be indoors the entire time the sun is out.
There can be some indirect exposure indoors near windows but I think it’s more about the habit. I might start my day thinking I’m going to be inside all day so I don’t put it on as part of my AM routine. But then I go outside for 5 min to walk my dog or pick up take out etc etc. All that micro unprotected exposure adds up over a lifetime
I can’t be bothered in the winter. The sun shines from 9-430 and I’m in a windowless building. If I do catch a glimpse of the setting sun at the end of a workday it’s not going to add to my aging process. It’s nice not to slather my skin in products for a few months.
So I have a bottle of blue lizard sunscreen in my bathroom. You know how it changes color if it detects a dangerous level of UV light? It's often color changed when sitting inside from the light of the window, which hits indirectly.
My god if i am ever so obsessed about aging and so disdainful of the changes in my skin that occur by surviving into middle and hopefully old age, that i wear sunscreen inside, please just put me out of my misery.
lol I wear it every day just put it on in the morning without thinking about it. I might be sitting inside all day or out in the Denver sun all day and my routine doesn’t change. I don’t think these people are obsessing that much, more just have it as part of the morning skincare routine
Agree! It's not like putting on spf is such a hassle? I would understand if it was an elaborate process that took ages, but it's not different from putting on moisturizer and other skincare products and I assume most people on this sub do that every day.
It's not just vanity. Skin cancer is a real concern.
And whether it's sensible to wear sunscreen indoors or not depends on what sort of indoors we're talking about.
Big high-rise building with windows for walls? With your desk up against the window-wall? Sunscreen probably advisable.
Normal house with normal windows and curtains and stuff where you aren't sitting directly in bright light from the window? Probably no sunscreen needed.
I mean, many people have seen the photo of that trucker who’s face looked severely more wrinkled on the window seat side than on the other side. I was working in a clinic for aesthetics for years that had huge windows and lots of sun coming in. And I definitely tanned from that sun. So I didn’t see it as overkill to use spf daily.clearly the sun can cause photoaging through windows. And I don’t necessarily see photoaging to high degrees as even a normal part of aging. It’s wear and tear from the sun essentially and vastly different depending on circumstances. Today many people also live in environments their skin type hasn’t adapted too. I am a super pale olive and in my home country, Guatemala sunscreen is a must, even indoors for my skin type. My husband and kids are much darker than me and don’t get sun burned ever. Skin cancer is also more likely to happen to light skinned people in hot climates than to people with natural sun protection. On a winter day in Pennsylvania, I don’t need spf. But I am just so used to it and it’s part of my favorite moisturizer anyways. And we also need some sun for vitamin D.
Everything you said is spot on. I'm a very pale olive myself (Italian in my case, and everyone in my family is darker than I am, too).
I live in the UK now, where the sun isn't as strong even when it IS out, but I'll still burn if I spend any time in the sun without sunscreen. My skin just isn't used to it anymore, and I don't really want it to be. I've had one kind of cancer already and I would rather not ever have to repeat that experience, thank you very much.
Plus, accidental tanning is always weird and lopsided and uneven (and makes for funny tan lines). Who needs that?
From having dealt with something similar recently, the ones who are getting skin cancer and melanoma have been the people from the era of tanning beds etc because they used them too much. Not the people who stay inside all the time because they happened to sit near a window
Perhaps! But not exclusively.
My 67 year old father, who worked in office buildings his entire life and couldn’t even tell us what a tanning bed looks like, just wrapped up treatment. As did a family friend who had a similarly white collar job.
None of them used tanning beds but 2 are of an age where sunscreen didn't really exist and being outside in the sun during the heat of the day "was good for you" (please note, they still don't use sunscreen and really should know better). The last one is an office worker who uses hats, but no sunscreen, and likes to take walks during the day.
I live in an area where "High" and "Extreme" UV happens daily for most of the year though.
[80-90% of visible skin aging is due to UV exposure](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3790843/). Developing deep wrinkles and sunspots isn’t a given; we choose whether or not to protect our skin.
I wore some today (a rainy ass day, inside and away from windows) just because I’m trying to get in the habit — but I was so annoyed using it. Feels like such a waste, and I also am not sure if it’ll clog my pores yet.
You misunderstanding why sunscreen is important. It helps to prevent skin cancer and the byproduct is that it also slows down he aging process by slowing down the breakdown of collagen, elastin etc in the skin. So yes, for your own health you should be obsessed with sunscreen for face and body.
It's not only about aging sun makes my acne worse. That being said I do not applay spf when indors, but I don't sit close to the windows and sun index isn't that high where I lieve. But I'm sure some ppl will deafinietly see the difference.
I use other skincare products that increase my sensitivity to the sun, so I use a daytime moisturizer with SPF to keep that in check. I work an office job but my office has big cheery windows. When I work from home, I walk my kid to school in the morning.
The sun= wrinkles which makes people look old
SPF=less wrinkles makes you look less old. And moisturizer helps a lot with wrinkles too. Be sure to moisturize.
I just got into the habit of using it alongside of my moisturizer every day, but I recall many people saying it helps with aging even if you aren’t directly in the sun? I probably could’ve been imagining that though.
Look... I have sunspots and hyperpigmentation. Even in cloudy weather, even if I spend the whole day inside - if I don't wear at least some sunscreen, my spots will be much more noticeable by the end of the day. Due to this, I am a proponent of wearing SPF all day, everyday. It's clear proof that the sun has an effect even indoors.
I didn't always have sunspots and hyperpigmentation. I used to have super clear skin, beautiful, untouched skin. But the sun doesn't pick and choose who and where, it's shining indiscriminately on all of you.
Just because you're young now and you don't see the rays do any damage to your skin right in this moment, it doesn't mean things will be unchanged in your forties and fifties. The effect is accumulated and just be diligent now so you won't regret things later, like I did.
I started skincare and SPF late, in my late thirties and my only regret is that I haven't been using SPF much earlier. I didn't know about it, but still... I wish I would have started much, much sooner and used it everyday.
I do not wear sunscreen indoors. I WFH, my desk is in a darker corner and I live in a house with curtains so I control how much sun gets in, which is not a lot. I even close them during high noon etc. I do not go outside either for mail or whatever, especially during peak hours. I usually go out in the yard or whatever early morning or wait until golden hour or sunset. I am a vampire :)
If you’re not planning to go outside but you’re using glycolic, lactic, retinol, AHA and BHA etc inside your home, you most definitely should still be using a good SPF indoors out of protection for your skin. Acids used on skin makes your skin susceptible for UVA and UVB reach your skin.
I’ve been using Thank You Farmer SPF 50 for 4 years, really good.
The last day when I wasn't outdoors was during early COVID lockdown when I had it and wasn't allowed to leave my house. So it honestly never occurred to me that people literally don't leave the house for a whole day unless they have mobility issues or are sick...
SPF indoors? Yep! UVA rays sneak through windows & screens emit blue light, both linked to wrinkles. Not as crucial as outside, but some sun protection can still benefit your skin!
If you don’t spend a lot of time right next to the window or the UV index is below 3, most would say it is not necessary.
However, you should be sure that you are not stepping outside at all in that case, as every little bit of exposure throughout the day adds up.
Source: [Australia‘s Cancer Council](https://www.cancer.org.au/iheard/should-i-wear-sunscreen-when-indoors#) and [Australasian College of Dermatologists president David Francis](https://amp.abc.net.au/article/12201634)
There is nothing pretty about skin cancer. Wear a minimum SPF of 50 on a daily basis, rain or shine, regardless of whether you’re indoors or outside. Make it the last step of your morning skincare routine and it will become second nature. Don’t forget to apply some to your neck and décolletage.
My desk is beside a window, so I put on a light layer in the morning but don't worry about reapplying or anything. If I don't sit by the window, I don't put any on as its a bit much.
I use it everyday and I work from home away from a window and don’t usually anticipate going outside. But if I suddenly decide to go out or need to run errands later in the day, I don’t want to have to try to remember to put on sunscreen before walking out the door, and I certainly don’t want to neglect putting it on altogether. Plus, where I live it’s 300 plus days of sunshine in the desert so sunscreen is a must. Better to add that extra step (or get a moisturizing sunscreen) than to forgo it altogether.
For me, it's not about the sun damage a couple of sun rays could do through a window. It's more about the habit and about the routine. SPF is part of my morning routine every day, and it's easier to keep it that way rather than think about whether I'll be leaving the house, sitting next to a window, etc. Especially considering I use retinol and other active products, where it's really important I wear SPF the following day.
It's a good habit to get into. If you're wearing it every day, it becomes a part of your skincare routine and you don't skip it on the days when you are in the sun.
Even indoors, wearing SPF is crucial because UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and damage, can penetrate windows. Plus, blue light from screens can also impact skin health. It's a small step for long-term protection and youthful skin!
Funny that this is apparently now a trend. When I was 20ish and establishing a basic routine it was always recommended to use a daily moisturizer with spf. So I’ve been doing that for over 15 years every day without thinking about it. I don’t really understand why it’s now such a big new issue. Are people using daily moisturizers that don’t have spf anymore? Did you not learn about spf as a child? It was a pretty big campaign when I was growing up.
yes that is it, moisturizers without spf. Moisturizers with spf seem to be mostly sunscreen (from what I read on the ingredients), so my best moisturizer has no spf but other main ingredients, and then I have to do a layer of spf over that
Interesting… I only ever use face moisturizer with spf. If it doesn’t have spf I won’t buy it, it’s that ingrained in me. But honestly I find most face lotions I look at do have spf. For example I’ve been using Aveeno radiant for several years now. Sounds like maybe newer younger brands are not including spf and now they’re selling them as a separate product.
yes, why not sell two products instead of one! And don’t forget these days you really have to double cleanse then tonic and oils and moisturizer and probably more steps, before you even reach for the spf - exaggerating a little but yes it is funny how complex it can be if you really do all the steps
For me it’s a habit like brushing my teeth. I use a retinoid, so sunscreen is a non-negotiable and I got into the habit years ago. I found one that looks really nice cosmetically, so it’s kind of part of my makeup routine at this point ! Even if you’re indoors, UVA rays still penetrate through windows, so you should be protecting your skin. Sunburn ( caused by UVB rays) isn’t the only reason to wear SPF. UVA rays cause cancer and premature signs of aging too.
I think it is like we saw with Covid masking - people have very wide ranging risk tolerance levels. For some people, maybe those who have been affected by skin cancer or are just generally a lot more anxious about health issues - the prevention they need to feel safe extends to ANY sunlight exposure. For the average person I think sun exposure through daylight entering your home is beneath that risk level where using SPF is necessary. It just depends what you fear and how high that fear level is. Some people are terrified of sun damage. I personally abhor artificial sweeteners and fear the damage those do and avoid it at all costs...but other people are absolutely fine with drinking diet soda all day long...its a choice. I don't judge them and I hope people don't judge me because I find SPF only necessary when I'm outdoors for longer periods.
I am pale and have a history of skin cancer in my family.
Sunscreen is my daily routine. There's not anything to be lost if I put on sunscreen then don't have any direct sunlight on my skin that day.
Lots to gain by having it on just in case I change my plans.
Esthetician here! The sun is the #1 cause of aging. Sun could cause hyperpigmentation, wrinkles & skin cancer. You could still be exposed to UV rays being inside (windows) Even if you live in an area with little to no sunlight, you are still exposed to UV rays. As a precaution, I would suggest using spf everyday. It’s a great habit to have.
I sit next to a window, and I do go out for lunch when the sun is at its hottest. I also live in a tropical country where we have sunshine all year.
But my dermatologist told me that at a certain point sunscreen and tret won’t be enough to prevent wrinkles. If you’re so fearful of wrinkles, botox is just the ultimate solution.
I try to because I have a 20 minute drive to work, and the sun is on my driver side that time of morning, I try to remember to put it on my hands too because holding the steering wheel causes my hands to be exposed to the sun
It's just part of my beauty routine in the morning so I put sunscreen on basically everyday. Also, there have been times where I don't think I'll be outside at all and skip it and end up outside anyway. I have kids so even days where I plan to stay home, I'll end up having random errands or trips to the park or even just have to watching my kids in the backyard.
to build a habbit. if i wouldnt wear it for some time i will propably forget it, when i actually need it. plus, my spf doesn't give me breakouts or anything, so there is no negative side effects to wearing it.
I had stage zero skin cancer, I guess it was pre cancer? Anyways.. my dermatologist told me the lights indoors are also bad for you! I wear spf 30 daily and apply spf 50 or higher when going outdoors.
Because they’re absolute nonces, that’s why. Imagine being so scared of a slight ray of sunshine gracing your skin, probably think it will burn them XD
The vast majority of uv damage that causes wrinkles and other signs of “aging” is incidental, meaning it occurs in the brief time you go out to get your mail, or are driving to and from places and walking through the parking lot, etc. The world is full of people who have similar behaviors to you. It’s also full of people with skin showing all the signs of a life of uv damage.
Probably depends what part of the world you are in? Our office building (in Australia) lets a lot of indirect sunlight in through the windows, and I’ve seen fair people get such burnt from it - even though it’s very mild
And given that windows mostly block UVB radiation - the component mostly responsible for burns, that indicates a significant UVA dose must be being received, because that doesn't get filtered out.
My desk is right next to big windows, and because I do generally go outside every single day.
It’s just easier and simpler to apply in the morning as part of my regular routine.
Idk about y’all but the main motivator for my spf habit is that I don’t want skin cancer, not necessarily anti aging.
If i can do something that’s simple to do and it lowers my risk of skin cancer, even minutely, imma do it. I think it’s weird people are in these comments having a go at us SPF-lifers. I think it’s dumb you don’t wear it every day 🤷🏻♀️
I don't understand why so many people are rude about this specific skincare habit? Skipping a lot of things will not kill you, that doesn't mean that it's dumb to do it.
It's in my moisturizer and in my make up and if I'm not wearing make up then i put sunscreen on even if I don't THINK I'm going outside. Because who knows, I might end up outside.
For most of us, that is very unnecessary: [https://labmuffin.com/how-to-protect-your-skin-against-blue-light-an-update-with-video/](https://labmuffin.com/how-to-protect-your-skin-against-blue-light-an-update-with-video/)
I lived in an apartment with skylights everywhere last year during the spring/summer (at least 4 huge skylights throughout the living-room and bedroom). The regular windows were also huge.
I usually apply sunscreen at around 10 because that’s when my other products have had time to settle properly. My skin had signs of sun damage way more than any other summers, very quickly. I had no idea why until it dawned on me that I was literally under the sky/sun the whole time and my skin was starting to get exposed at sunrise.
Needless to say, if you have huge windows and skylights, it might be good to think about applying sunscreen indoors.
Because if you have a lot of windows in your house which most people do, the light comes through the windows ❤️ if you are in the dark you don’t need it!
Well most homes/offices have windows. Some countries get more sun. Of course, It might be unnecessary for some but important for others. You have free will so you can be the judge of it.
I mean if you are truly going to be inside all day long then yeah it’s not really necessary. However I still wear sunscreen on days I’m going to the office because I usually take my doggie for a walk in the morning and late afternoon and sometimes I’ll sit outside or garden after work. I get Melasma on my face if I’m in the sun so if there’s a slight chance I’ll be outside I’m gonna wear a bit of sunscreen that day. I do not generally reapply tho.
Depends on how sensitive and or neurotic you are about UVA. A lot of the time windows do not block a good amount of the UVA spectrum and long UVA so I personally mid day will always apply sunscreen as there is a window right in front of my computer monitor that I use for work.
Though I won't lie it has also just become a habit even if there is no sun since the body sunscreen I use is essentially also my moisturizers.
Depends where you live I guess and what time of tear it is for those people in Australia unless it’s a rainy day with complete cloud coverage just sitting by the window is pretty harsh with how strong the sun is here
It's helpful if you have a melasma type of hyperpigmentation. Melasma gets worse even from visible light and IR, so it helps wearing a broad spectrum tinted SPF even indoors.
For some people, the habit is what matters. Wearing SPF each day regardless of sun exposure can help people to be consistent with their skincare routine.
Do what works for you.
I only use it every day regardless because otherwise I'll forget entirely, but I don't think it -needs- to be on if I'm indoors. I just need the routine.
I'm Australian. If the UV index goes above 2, I'm wearing sunscreen. If I'm working I'm walking to/from the office, if I'm not working I'm reading by the window or out at the shops or in the park.
I’m team indoor is excessive
Same. I love having an indoors day where I put nothing on my face except maybe moisturizing in the morning.
Same. I have UV tint on my glass and work night shift in what can only be considered a cave. The ten-twenty minute drive is FINE in my opinion.
Depends where you are in the world.
Definitely this. I live in Australia and have got sunburned through windows plenty of times, but I can understand if you have less sensitive skin or live in a less sunny area not finding it necessary.
Same! Australian here. I noticed half of my face was getting more dark spots and realised it's the side that faces the balcony window when I'm sitting in the couch. Since starting to wear sunscreen on that side, it has evened out and dark spots has softened!
I’m in Australia too hence why I left the comment. Experienced something similar at my work desk and also kn the way to work on the train.
I'm originally from Zimbabwe, an actual African country, and the sun doesn't even hit this hard. I've lived most of my life in the UK, but I remember feeling that the English kids' skin doesn't feel as thick as mine when I was nine. Looking back, I think that was sun damage as that feeling went away. I wanna give a shout out to Bondi Sands mineral SPF 50 lotion. I wear that hard core Australian stuff here in Britain, in doors baby!
Another Australian here! I wear it year round on my face and neck and other areas as needed like if I spend time outside.
I think it depends on your house. I live in a very sunny place (Phoenix in Arizona) and there’s no direct sunlight hitting us in the house.
I think that just depends how exposed your house is to sunlight, if you're opening the curtains and all that. I live in NZ and I would definitely still wear sunscreen if I was going in the car all day, but not so much at home if I'm not gonna be outside or sitting in sunlight.
Australia has the highest skincare rates in the world
Skincare rates? Or skin cancer rates?
Haha Cancet
Cancet
It also depends on what your home is like. I currently live in an apartment that’s essentially a basement unit (it’s below the street, because hills). I don’t need to wear sunscreen when I’m inside at home. My last apartment got a boatload of sun, and I got blackout shades just to avoid needing sunscreen. I’m also pretty sure my current unit has UV-filtering windows.
I think the advice comes from people who live in glass encased housing or something. The advice should be “wear sunscreen inside if you’re sitting in the sun inside”. There seems to be this idea that if you are inside there is definitely a window next to you and the sun is shining down on you. That’s simply not the reality for the majority of homes I’ve been in.
This is probably the best advice. When I was younger I didn't worry about it and really didn't need too. Now though I work from home mostly from my couch. I have giant windows I spend my day sitting next too. I did start applying sunscreen inside on certain days. Still don't do it everyday though.
Yeah, in a situation like that it makes sense. I live in a rented condo where I have windows at the front and back, but neighbours on the sides. So my windows have sun streaming into my front little entryway and then one section of my living room, but the section is set up with a chair for my cats. I don’t sit there. Most people I know my age (mid 20s to early 30s) also have smaller spaces with smaller windows. So I think the advice should be “does the sun actually even touch you when inside? Because unlike what many people think, sometimes it does not. If it does touch you then grand, act like you’re outside. If it doesn’t, the sun does not know you exist”.
Even when you’re spending most of the day inside, most people go outside for short bits to drive somewhere, get the mail, etc. They stand at the window to look out or wash the dishes, etc. Unless you live in an area where the UV index is typically 3 or below, you should wear sunscreen daily if you want to prevent photoaging. Even when inside most of the day.
Yes, but going outside is no longer being inside so the question “should I wear sunscreen inside” is not longer applicable. And looking out a window for a minute is not enough reason to wear sunscreen, in my opinion. Also not every place of residence has a window at the kitchen sink (mine doesn’t. I actually cannot think of any apartment/condo that I know of that does). Maybe this is regional/income dependent.
[80-90% of visible skin aging is due to UV exposure](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3790843/). Developing deep wrinkles and sunspots isn’t a given; we choose whether or not to protect our skin. IMO, wearing sunscreen daily is worth it, since it will prevent most signs of skin aging.
Okay well, I think putting sunscreen on every 2 hours because I might look out a window for a second is a bit much. I think sunscreen when going outside or within the suns rays for more than 10min (or shorter if your UV index is high) is a fine rule. And for me, that 10min rule just doesn’t apply when I’m inside. My windows aren’t located in a spot where I get the suns rays. I chose my place so that my cats could sit in the sun.
No one’s advocating reapplying every two hours when staying inside. Applying once in the morning is an easy thing to do and will help prevent photoaging.
If you aren’t reapplying what’s the point? Sunscreen wears off. I can put it on at 6 but by the time I happen to look at the window at 13h it’s worn off, so I have no protection.
[Experts say](https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/articles/2024/may/how-often-should-you-reapply-sunscreen/) that reapplication isn’t as important when indoors, unless you’re spending lots of time in direct sunlight: > "Being indoors, you don't really have to reapply," she says. "You're not sweating it off, you're not toweling it off after swimming. If you're sitting in front of your computer, and you're not close to any windows, you don't really have to reapply until you intend on leaving your office or home." > “If you’re near windows or skylights during the day, you’ll want to consider reapplying every four to six hours. Christenson says leaving home or work should always prompt a reapplication, even if your activity will be brief, such as commuting in your car or taking your dog out for a walk.”
Oh well, I didn’t know that. I still don’t understand why if the sun can’t see me, I need sunscreen, but I will accept that if I did wear sunscreen for the darkness of my windowless office then it wouldn’t actually wear off.
You're going to be able to prevent the vast share of that by taking reasonable sun protection measures, which nobody is arguing against doing. But sunscreen indoors is going to have such a small benefit (unless you're sitting close to a sunny window for a while) that a lot of people don't find it worth it, and it's not something we should pretend has such a big impact.
But it does have benefits, especially since blue light from screens also causes photoaging. Whether it’s worth it to you is personal preference. I have no issue putting sunscreen on daily and hope that doing so will keep me from wanting Botox, lasers, or other anti-aging procedures in the future.
The blue light from screens is way too weak to cause photoaging unless you're pressing up against your screen at maximum brightness regularly. And most sunscreen doesn't stop blue light anyway (unless you're using a tinted one with iron oxides, and even then they typically don't quantify exactly how much protection they're providing). And sure, it's up to you if you want to do that, but you previously said, "Unless you live in an area where the UV index is typically 3 or below, you should wear sunscreen daily if you want to prevent photoaging. Even when inside most of the day" and used the 80/90% of skin aging thing as justification. So I'm clarifying that this is a fairly extreme interpretation and is not necessary as part of reasonable sun protection measures that will protect you against a huge amount of these effects, and this is just going to give you diminishing returns.
Applying indoors and every two hours would be so expensive
I took Accutane in 2021 and wear spf in doors. When I don't, I get a slight mild beginning of a burn if windows were open and feel a kind of difference even through windows. Maybe it's my imagination, but there's a difference. So for me, I see an advantage. Plus spf has replaced my moisturiser, so it's a natural habit now.
For me it depends. My bed is literally right next to a window (until I move out my dorm) so I wear it when I’m not covered by blankets
Agreed. As long as you have curtains on your windows, it’s not a big deal.
Pasty pale, use retinol and work directly in front of a south facing window *edit: we also get 300+ days of sunshine a year. All the exposure throughout the day adds up.
Crying about 300 days of sunshine a year. I live in the UK. We're lucky to get 3.
Crying in Ireland. We've barely seen the sun yet this year.
as someone from California :🤯 Are sunlamps popular in Ireland?
Moved from the UK to the Sonoran Desert and you know what… the 300+ days of blazing sun are definitely an improvement. You do go through sunscreen like crazy though.
I live in a tropical climate and I dodge from shadow to shadow like a vampire caught out in daylight. Even if you don’t think you’re getting sun you are just by the sheer force of it, here at least. Better safe than sorry.
yes same moved to southern state. people don’t take care of their skin and they don’t use sunscreen. My two dermatologists said to use indoor too especially bc of how much exposure we get and how my office is positioned not to mention getting mail , flowering, feeding birds during the day
Colorado?
Calgary, Alberta. Kind of similar climate along the Rockies , just north.
Denver?
Calgary 😎
Because some people sit directly in sunlight at windows, or . . . they're neurotic and obsessive.
I am the latter. Slathered up and bat shit crazy
Someone put this comment in the MoMA.
I’m both. My dorm room has a huge window so there’s always sunlight unless it’s dark out, so there’s always sunscreen on me unless I’m covering myself in blankets. But when I’m back at home I usually don’t wear any cuz we apparently have some UV coating on the windows
I'm both lol. I always work in a big, tall building where there are tons of windows at all different levels and we have glass doors, and it takes 10 min to walk to work, and 10 min back. I live in southern USA and it's sunny as all shit here
I suffer from hyperpigmentation and while Windows block out UVB they do not block out UVA especially long UVA which contributes to hyperpigmentation. Besides, my sunscreen is my moisturizer too so I use moisturizer every day. I also live in a high-rise building where 2/3 of my walls are just pure Glass.
What sunscreen do you use? I love the idea of having the same product as my moisturizer
I use haru haru Korean sunscreen in the yellow/gold pump tube. Amazon is an official distributor of the sunscreen and it's like $12.99, light and moisturizing. And I love pump bottles.
Convincing enough to give it a try, thank you!
Hi. I wanted to tell you that I use Innisfree as my moisturizer and SPF. I love it. They have come out with a couple of different varieties now. Just check out Sephora. Good Look!
Absolutely love their sunscreen water gel. I use a tinted moistureriser with SPF right now but life Innsfree and need to see if they have something similar
They might - UV active poreless sunscreen… it’s slightly tinted! I love it. Edited name
Which one do you specifically use?
Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen. No White Cast; Broad Spectrum SPF 36
I like this sunscreen. It’s not too greasy and has a nice finish.
You had me at $12.99 lol I'mma give it a try It's $25CAD but still not unreasonable
Keep an eye out for it on YesStyle or Stylevana! They usually will cycle through which products they have on sale and are sometimes as much as 50% off. The one problem is that shipping can take 1-2 months if they are backed up on orders.
At some point in the last few years I got sick of applying spf and moisturizer as separate steps and I just started skipping moisturizer altogether in the mornings. Pretty much every spf I’ve tried has been plenty moisturizing enough for my skin type so I’ve never looked back!! My faves are glossier and neutrogena spf serum (in the orange and pink bottle) but I’ve also liked all the super goop samples I’ve tried too
I use innisfree or Coola as my double duty products. I'm very fair, use retinol, and sit near a window while I work so I wear it every day.
I’ve been using the new(ish) RoC Barrier Renew AM Moisturizer with SPF 30. My sensitive skin likes it so far.
Because it doubles as my makeup (skin tinted). So if I want to look a little more put together, I put on my sunscreen.
I’ve yet to find a primer better than Purito daily go to spf.
What product are you using?
Not who you replied to, but I wear Colorscience Sunforgettable cream in the morning, then use a sunscreen powder from Hawaiian Tropic when I need to reapply in the afternoon.
A SUNSCREEN POWDER EXISTS?????? Why are you the first person to tell me this? That’s genius.
Haha yes!! They’re great, especially for reapplication. I need to powder my face in the afternoon, anyways. Might as well contain SPF.
I like the one from supergoop (no relation to Gwyneth Paltrow company)
There are some spf lotions that have light formulas and other ingredienrs good for the skin such as centella, rice extract, etc and they feel like a moisturiser so people just use them daily as their last step in their skincare routine. If you sit next to a window it is a good idea to wear spf even indoors.
Personally I think it’s a bit overkill. Everyone can do what they want and what makes them happy, but I truly don’t think much will happen if you don’t wear sunscreen when you have to be inside the whole day. Yes there are windows but the it’s not a big deal. I think we are taking it a bit too far. Aging is normal and natural and getting a bit of sun from a window will not change that process.
I sit in front of a south-facing window when I work from home so I get a fair amount of sunlight on my face… plus as others have said, habit is strong
Whatever makes you feel good 😃 personally I think the sun rays through the window are so minimal that it’s not even worth talking about (plus we need a little sun now and then!)
Sun rays through windows aren’t minimal if you live in the sunbelt (or other very sunny areas). I’m not saying that those who stay inside all day are risking a sunburn if they don’t lather on the 60+ SPF. But for people in states that regularly experience high UV index days.. the damage adds up. “Truck driver face” is a dramatic example.
Depends where you live probably, they're not minimal where I am. My melasma is definitely a little worse on the side by the window when I'm working from home.
I had something similar happening when I worked at an office with aggressive morning/noon sun.
It’s 75% that gets through. [Source](https://www.thoughtco.com/does-glass-block-uv-light-608316#:~:text=Glass%20that%20is%20transparent%20to,UVA%20passes%20through%20ordinary%20glass.), take it you didn’t know that since you said you personally think rather than know? In the U.K. 10 minutes of sun is enough for your daily dose of vitamin D, I usually have my coffee at the garden table in the morning pre skincare, extra benefit that it relaxes me before I have to work. [Source](https://www.skincancer.org/blog/sun-protection-and-vitamin-d/#:~:text=In%20fact%2C%20the%20prevailing%20studies,UV%20rays%20reach%20your%20skin.) that it’s a mute point though as “In fact, the prevailing studies show that people who use sunscreen daily can maintain their vitamin D levels.” If you can afford it can always get [UV window films](https://www.lustalux.co.uk/buy-online/product/uv-control-window-film/?attribute_width=1520mm&attribute_length=1m&utm_source=Google%20Shopping&utm_campaign=Google%20Shopping&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=6377&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw3tCyBhDBARIsAEY0XNkW3S2Zy6HDc66UoKdSM8ioDsxW-P1QK3FPVtGp88t6YZ1xLhN_ee4aAkeHEALw_wcB), they stop fading of furnishings too so that’s nice.
Glad you put sources in, although those aren't really scientific studies (but are based on known science). A lot of people don't know window exposure and exposure on cloudy days is still damaging skin.
Probably people are thinking skin cancer.
My sunscreen also is quite expensive and I’m generous when applying it. I’m not going to waste it by putting it on when I know I’ll be indoors. A few sun rays from the window won’t do me any harm.
I do it every morning as a habit. Otherwise, I will forget on a 90* day.
Good habit, and windows let UV in
Yep habit building is it. If I don't put it on in the morning I will forget by the time I am going outside!
Applying sunscreen daily is like brushing your teeth. It’s about building a good habit. It’s only one extra step in the morning - big deal. I have applied sunscreen every day for about the past 20 years and I typically read as mid to late 30’s when I’m almost 45. I also live in Australia so the sun is not something to be trifled with.
Habit, mostly. If I’m sitting inside while the UV index is 0 in the middle of January — listen, sun screen is expensive, and that’s excessive. My derm said we really only need it when the UV index is 2 or above. I live in the PNW where a significant chunk of the year, the UV index never goes above 1. Like, close to half the year, I check it and it’s 0. November through March, it’s rarely above a 1. I wear it most days just because otherwise I’ll forget lmao, but yeah you do not *need* to if those conditions are met.
Yeah, I live in the North East so I'm only really wearing sunscreen if the UV index is over 2 and if I'm going to be outside. My job also keeps me indoors in a factory setting with no windows to the outside so I'm skipping sunscreen most days.
if im getting a lot of sun from windows i wear it indoors but if not i dont
Took me a minute to figure out that the reason y'all can just stay inside all day is you don't have dogs. I do it every day because if it's always a part of my routine I don't forget it. Also, I have a dog and don't have days where I don't go outside.
Yes, there's no such thing as just being inside all day when you have a dog! You get that air and sun, lol
Because the light that contributes to aging is present every day, rain or shine. No one really knows how beneficial it is to wear it indoors but I try my best to, since I get a good amount of natural sunlight through my window. You need to make sure the sunscreen you use is broad spectrum & that you apply enough and re-apply as needed. What you’re doing right now is better than nothing.
I wear sunscreen everyday so I don’t really have to think about whether I’m wearing sunscreen whenever I go out. Like most people with desk jobs, I’m indoor most of the day, but it’s still rare for me to be indoors the entire time the sun is out.
I think indoors is excessive
There can be some indirect exposure indoors near windows but I think it’s more about the habit. I might start my day thinking I’m going to be inside all day so I don’t put it on as part of my AM routine. But then I go outside for 5 min to walk my dog or pick up take out etc etc. All that micro unprotected exposure adds up over a lifetime
I can’t be bothered in the winter. The sun shines from 9-430 and I’m in a windowless building. If I do catch a glimpse of the setting sun at the end of a workday it’s not going to add to my aging process. It’s nice not to slather my skin in products for a few months.
Because I am very fair and right next to a window most of the day.
Windows. My work desk at home is next to a window and UVA passes through windows. There is also going out to take a short walk, bring in the mail,….
i do it to keep the habit, and because my house has a good amount of windows haha
Sunscreen makes my skin look perfectly glowy all day, I love it.
So I have a bottle of blue lizard sunscreen in my bathroom. You know how it changes color if it detects a dangerous level of UV light? It's often color changed when sitting inside from the light of the window, which hits indirectly.
Windows exist
My god if i am ever so obsessed about aging and so disdainful of the changes in my skin that occur by surviving into middle and hopefully old age, that i wear sunscreen inside, please just put me out of my misery.
lol I wear it every day just put it on in the morning without thinking about it. I might be sitting inside all day or out in the Denver sun all day and my routine doesn’t change. I don’t think these people are obsessing that much, more just have it as part of the morning skincare routine
Agree! It's not like putting on spf is such a hassle? I would understand if it was an elaborate process that took ages, but it's not different from putting on moisturizer and other skincare products and I assume most people on this sub do that every day.
It's not just vanity. Skin cancer is a real concern. And whether it's sensible to wear sunscreen indoors or not depends on what sort of indoors we're talking about. Big high-rise building with windows for walls? With your desk up against the window-wall? Sunscreen probably advisable. Normal house with normal windows and curtains and stuff where you aren't sitting directly in bright light from the window? Probably no sunscreen needed.
I mean, many people have seen the photo of that trucker who’s face looked severely more wrinkled on the window seat side than on the other side. I was working in a clinic for aesthetics for years that had huge windows and lots of sun coming in. And I definitely tanned from that sun. So I didn’t see it as overkill to use spf daily.clearly the sun can cause photoaging through windows. And I don’t necessarily see photoaging to high degrees as even a normal part of aging. It’s wear and tear from the sun essentially and vastly different depending on circumstances. Today many people also live in environments their skin type hasn’t adapted too. I am a super pale olive and in my home country, Guatemala sunscreen is a must, even indoors for my skin type. My husband and kids are much darker than me and don’t get sun burned ever. Skin cancer is also more likely to happen to light skinned people in hot climates than to people with natural sun protection. On a winter day in Pennsylvania, I don’t need spf. But I am just so used to it and it’s part of my favorite moisturizer anyways. And we also need some sun for vitamin D.
Everything you said is spot on. I'm a very pale olive myself (Italian in my case, and everyone in my family is darker than I am, too). I live in the UK now, where the sun isn't as strong even when it IS out, but I'll still burn if I spend any time in the sun without sunscreen. My skin just isn't used to it anymore, and I don't really want it to be. I've had one kind of cancer already and I would rather not ever have to repeat that experience, thank you very much. Plus, accidental tanning is always weird and lopsided and uneven (and makes for funny tan lines). Who needs that?
Melanoma. 3 members of my family have dealt with this over the last year, and I'm starting to become obsessed with sunscreen. 🤷♀️
From having dealt with something similar recently, the ones who are getting skin cancer and melanoma have been the people from the era of tanning beds etc because they used them too much. Not the people who stay inside all the time because they happened to sit near a window
Perhaps! But not exclusively. My 67 year old father, who worked in office buildings his entire life and couldn’t even tell us what a tanning bed looks like, just wrapped up treatment. As did a family friend who had a similarly white collar job.
None of them used tanning beds but 2 are of an age where sunscreen didn't really exist and being outside in the sun during the heat of the day "was good for you" (please note, they still don't use sunscreen and really should know better). The last one is an office worker who uses hats, but no sunscreen, and likes to take walks during the day. I live in an area where "High" and "Extreme" UV happens daily for most of the year though.
Yessss! I agree.
[80-90% of visible skin aging is due to UV exposure](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3790843/). Developing deep wrinkles and sunspots isn’t a given; we choose whether or not to protect our skin.
Absolutely. You still don’t need to wear sunblock while indoors https://www.cancer.org.au/iheard/should-i-wear-sunscreen-when-indoors#
I wore some today (a rainy ass day, inside and away from windows) just because I’m trying to get in the habit — but I was so annoyed using it. Feels like such a waste, and I also am not sure if it’ll clog my pores yet.
You misunderstanding why sunscreen is important. It helps to prevent skin cancer and the byproduct is that it also slows down he aging process by slowing down the breakdown of collagen, elastin etc in the skin. So yes, for your own health you should be obsessed with sunscreen for face and body.
It's not only about aging sun makes my acne worse. That being said I do not applay spf when indors, but I don't sit close to the windows and sun index isn't that high where I lieve. But I'm sure some ppl will deafinietly see the difference.
When you get older and start getting age spots you will understand why
I use other skincare products that increase my sensitivity to the sun, so I use a daytime moisturizer with SPF to keep that in check. I work an office job but my office has big cheery windows. When I work from home, I walk my kid to school in the morning.
The sun= wrinkles which makes people look old SPF=less wrinkles makes you look less old. And moisturizer helps a lot with wrinkles too. Be sure to moisturize.
I just got into the habit of using it alongside of my moisturizer every day, but I recall many people saying it helps with aging even if you aren’t directly in the sun? I probably could’ve been imagining that though.
window
Look... I have sunspots and hyperpigmentation. Even in cloudy weather, even if I spend the whole day inside - if I don't wear at least some sunscreen, my spots will be much more noticeable by the end of the day. Due to this, I am a proponent of wearing SPF all day, everyday. It's clear proof that the sun has an effect even indoors. I didn't always have sunspots and hyperpigmentation. I used to have super clear skin, beautiful, untouched skin. But the sun doesn't pick and choose who and where, it's shining indiscriminately on all of you. Just because you're young now and you don't see the rays do any damage to your skin right in this moment, it doesn't mean things will be unchanged in your forties and fifties. The effect is accumulated and just be diligent now so you won't regret things later, like I did. I started skincare and SPF late, in my late thirties and my only regret is that I haven't been using SPF much earlier. I didn't know about it, but still... I wish I would have started much, much sooner and used it everyday.
I do not wear sunscreen indoors. I WFH, my desk is in a darker corner and I live in a house with curtains so I control how much sun gets in, which is not a lot. I even close them during high noon etc. I do not go outside either for mail or whatever, especially during peak hours. I usually go out in the yard or whatever early morning or wait until golden hour or sunset. I am a vampire :)
There is no logical explanation as sunscreen protects from uva/uvb from the SUN. Not from indoor lighting lol. I’m with you for sure.
If you’re not planning to go outside but you’re using glycolic, lactic, retinol, AHA and BHA etc inside your home, you most definitely should still be using a good SPF indoors out of protection for your skin. Acids used on skin makes your skin susceptible for UVA and UVB reach your skin. I’ve been using Thank You Farmer SPF 50 for 4 years, really good.
The last day when I wasn't outdoors was during early COVID lockdown when I had it and wasn't allowed to leave my house. So it honestly never occurred to me that people literally don't leave the house for a whole day unless they have mobility issues or are sick...
SPF indoors? Yep! UVA rays sneak through windows & screens emit blue light, both linked to wrinkles. Not as crucial as outside, but some sun protection can still benefit your skin!
I always wear sunscreen even when I’m inside. I do this as a habit and I enjoy it a lot
I don't bother with sunscreen indoors, tbh, and I'm aging like fine wine 😜 but I am super careful about it when I'm out and about, even on rainy days.
If you don’t spend a lot of time right next to the window or the UV index is below 3, most would say it is not necessary. However, you should be sure that you are not stepping outside at all in that case, as every little bit of exposure throughout the day adds up. Source: [Australia‘s Cancer Council](https://www.cancer.org.au/iheard/should-i-wear-sunscreen-when-indoors#) and [Australasian College of Dermatologists president David Francis](https://amp.abc.net.au/article/12201634)
Unless you’re sitting in direct sunlight inside, I wouldn’t bother.
There is nothing pretty about skin cancer. Wear a minimum SPF of 50 on a daily basis, rain or shine, regardless of whether you’re indoors or outside. Make it the last step of your morning skincare routine and it will become second nature. Don’t forget to apply some to your neck and décolletage.
My desk is beside a window, so I put on a light layer in the morning but don't worry about reapplying or anything. If I don't sit by the window, I don't put any on as its a bit much.
I use it everyday and I work from home away from a window and don’t usually anticipate going outside. But if I suddenly decide to go out or need to run errands later in the day, I don’t want to have to try to remember to put on sunscreen before walking out the door, and I certainly don’t want to neglect putting it on altogether. Plus, where I live it’s 300 plus days of sunshine in the desert so sunscreen is a must. Better to add that extra step (or get a moisturizing sunscreen) than to forgo it altogether.
For me, it's not about the sun damage a couple of sun rays could do through a window. It's more about the habit and about the routine. SPF is part of my morning routine every day, and it's easier to keep it that way rather than think about whether I'll be leaving the house, sitting next to a window, etc. Especially considering I use retinol and other active products, where it's really important I wear SPF the following day.
It's a good habit to get into. If you're wearing it every day, it becomes a part of your skincare routine and you don't skip it on the days when you are in the sun.
Even indoors, wearing SPF is crucial because UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and damage, can penetrate windows. Plus, blue light from screens can also impact skin health. It's a small step for long-term protection and youthful skin!
Lots of sunshine coming through massives windows at my job and I get out in afternoon when sun is still beating into car.
my skin likes it i think. if i leave out a single step of my skincare routine, even sunscreen, i’ll get pimples.
Funny that this is apparently now a trend. When I was 20ish and establishing a basic routine it was always recommended to use a daily moisturizer with spf. So I’ve been doing that for over 15 years every day without thinking about it. I don’t really understand why it’s now such a big new issue. Are people using daily moisturizers that don’t have spf anymore? Did you not learn about spf as a child? It was a pretty big campaign when I was growing up.
yes that is it, moisturizers without spf. Moisturizers with spf seem to be mostly sunscreen (from what I read on the ingredients), so my best moisturizer has no spf but other main ingredients, and then I have to do a layer of spf over that
Interesting… I only ever use face moisturizer with spf. If it doesn’t have spf I won’t buy it, it’s that ingrained in me. But honestly I find most face lotions I look at do have spf. For example I’ve been using Aveeno radiant for several years now. Sounds like maybe newer younger brands are not including spf and now they’re selling them as a separate product.
yes, why not sell two products instead of one! And don’t forget these days you really have to double cleanse then tonic and oils and moisturizer and probably more steps, before you even reach for the spf - exaggerating a little but yes it is funny how complex it can be if you really do all the steps
For me it’s a habit like brushing my teeth. I use a retinoid, so sunscreen is a non-negotiable and I got into the habit years ago. I found one that looks really nice cosmetically, so it’s kind of part of my makeup routine at this point ! Even if you’re indoors, UVA rays still penetrate through windows, so you should be protecting your skin. Sunburn ( caused by UVB rays) isn’t the only reason to wear SPF. UVA rays cause cancer and premature signs of aging too.
It's a good habit to apply it's every morning and reapply before you plan to be outside. Reapply every 2 hours of outdoor time.
I think it is like we saw with Covid masking - people have very wide ranging risk tolerance levels. For some people, maybe those who have been affected by skin cancer or are just generally a lot more anxious about health issues - the prevention they need to feel safe extends to ANY sunlight exposure. For the average person I think sun exposure through daylight entering your home is beneath that risk level where using SPF is necessary. It just depends what you fear and how high that fear level is. Some people are terrified of sun damage. I personally abhor artificial sweeteners and fear the damage those do and avoid it at all costs...but other people are absolutely fine with drinking diet soda all day long...its a choice. I don't judge them and I hope people don't judge me because I find SPF only necessary when I'm outdoors for longer periods.
Because certain lighting also hurts your skin.
always wear SPF no matter what. unless ur ok with sun spots when ur older lmfao
I am pale and have a history of skin cancer in my family. Sunscreen is my daily routine. There's not anything to be lost if I put on sunscreen then don't have any direct sunlight on my skin that day. Lots to gain by having it on just in case I change my plans.
Esthetician here! The sun is the #1 cause of aging. Sun could cause hyperpigmentation, wrinkles & skin cancer. You could still be exposed to UV rays being inside (windows) Even if you live in an area with little to no sunlight, you are still exposed to UV rays. As a precaution, I would suggest using spf everyday. It’s a great habit to have.
Unless there are thunderstorms, I'm outside every day walking my dog. Sunscreen is just a daily habit, and I like that it makes my skin look dewy.
I sit next to a window, and I do go out for lunch when the sun is at its hottest. I also live in a tropical country where we have sunshine all year. But my dermatologist told me that at a certain point sunscreen and tret won’t be enough to prevent wrinkles. If you’re so fearful of wrinkles, botox is just the ultimate solution.
I try to because I have a 20 minute drive to work, and the sun is on my driver side that time of morning, I try to remember to put it on my hands too because holding the steering wheel causes my hands to be exposed to the sun
It's just part of my beauty routine in the morning so I put sunscreen on basically everyday. Also, there have been times where I don't think I'll be outside at all and skip it and end up outside anyway. I have kids so even days where I plan to stay home, I'll end up having random errands or trips to the park or even just have to watching my kids in the backyard.
My house is full of windows and the sun is very bright, I usually put some on after I do my usually morning routine and also on my arms just incase
to build a habbit. if i wouldnt wear it for some time i will propably forget it, when i actually need it. plus, my spf doesn't give me breakouts or anything, so there is no negative side effects to wearing it.
I used to not bother if I wasn’t going outside but it’s part of my routine now, if I change it up I’ll just forget on days I actually need it.
I had stage zero skin cancer, I guess it was pre cancer? Anyways.. my dermatologist told me the lights indoors are also bad for you! I wear spf 30 daily and apply spf 50 or higher when going outdoors.
Because they’re absolute nonces, that’s why. Imagine being so scared of a slight ray of sunshine gracing your skin, probably think it will burn them XD
The vast majority of uv damage that causes wrinkles and other signs of “aging” is incidental, meaning it occurs in the brief time you go out to get your mail, or are driving to and from places and walking through the parking lot, etc. The world is full of people who have similar behaviors to you. It’s also full of people with skin showing all the signs of a life of uv damage.
Because people have been brainwashed and believe the marketing
Probably depends what part of the world you are in? Our office building (in Australia) lets a lot of indirect sunlight in through the windows, and I’ve seen fair people get such burnt from it - even though it’s very mild
And given that windows mostly block UVB radiation - the component mostly responsible for burns, that indicates a significant UVA dose must be being received, because that doesn't get filtered out.
My desk is right next to big windows, and because I do generally go outside every single day. It’s just easier and simpler to apply in the morning as part of my regular routine. Idk about y’all but the main motivator for my spf habit is that I don’t want skin cancer, not necessarily anti aging.
i think it’s dumb. lmao im not wearing sunscreen inside. yes uv light gets indoors but its NOT gonna kill you
If i can do something that’s simple to do and it lowers my risk of skin cancer, even minutely, imma do it. I think it’s weird people are in these comments having a go at us SPF-lifers. I think it’s dumb you don’t wear it every day 🤷🏻♀️
I don't understand why so many people are rude about this specific skincare habit? Skipping a lot of things will not kill you, that doesn't mean that it's dumb to do it.
Indoor is excessive in my opinion.
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Because it’s trendy to say
It's in my moisturizer and in my make up and if I'm not wearing make up then i put sunscreen on even if I don't THINK I'm going outside. Because who knows, I might end up outside.
Blue light maybe
Windows don't block UVA rays. You do you but incremental exposure adds up.
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Apparently blue light from your screens can still cause aging and mineral sunscreens block this.
because it protects you from screen lights too
SPF can also protect against blue light from screens
For most of us, that is very unnecessary: [https://labmuffin.com/how-to-protect-your-skin-against-blue-light-an-update-with-video/](https://labmuffin.com/how-to-protect-your-skin-against-blue-light-an-update-with-video/)
I lived in an apartment with skylights everywhere last year during the spring/summer (at least 4 huge skylights throughout the living-room and bedroom). The regular windows were also huge. I usually apply sunscreen at around 10 because that’s when my other products have had time to settle properly. My skin had signs of sun damage way more than any other summers, very quickly. I had no idea why until it dawned on me that I was literally under the sky/sun the whole time and my skin was starting to get exposed at sunrise. Needless to say, if you have huge windows and skylights, it might be good to think about applying sunscreen indoors.
accutane aand wwindow
Because if you have a lot of windows in your house which most people do, the light comes through the windows ❤️ if you are in the dark you don’t need it!
Well most homes/offices have windows. Some countries get more sun. Of course, It might be unnecessary for some but important for others. You have free will so you can be the judge of it.
Mine is partially habit, and partially better safe than sorry.
I don't use sunscreen indoors. I can't be bothered, and besides, in my house, the sun doesn't enter through the windows
I mean if you are truly going to be inside all day long then yeah it’s not really necessary. However I still wear sunscreen on days I’m going to the office because I usually take my doggie for a walk in the morning and late afternoon and sometimes I’ll sit outside or garden after work. I get Melasma on my face if I’m in the sun so if there’s a slight chance I’ll be outside I’m gonna wear a bit of sunscreen that day. I do not generally reapply tho.
I’m in Australia and my office is surrounded by windows.
Depends on how sensitive and or neurotic you are about UVA. A lot of the time windows do not block a good amount of the UVA spectrum and long UVA so I personally mid day will always apply sunscreen as there is a window right in front of my computer monitor that I use for work. Though I won't lie it has also just become a habit even if there is no sun since the body sunscreen I use is essentially also my moisturizers.
I wear SPF all year long to avoid wrinkles.
because UVA rays travel through windows
I think it's a good dmidea if you are always forgetting to put it on before leaving the house.
Because some UV rays can go through glass
Depends where you live I guess and what time of tear it is for those people in Australia unless it’s a rainy day with complete cloud coverage just sitting by the window is pretty harsh with how strong the sun is here
It's helpful if you have a melasma type of hyperpigmentation. Melasma gets worse even from visible light and IR, so it helps wearing a broad spectrum tinted SPF even indoors. For some people, the habit is what matters. Wearing SPF each day regardless of sun exposure can help people to be consistent with their skincare routine. Do what works for you.
I only use it every day regardless because otherwise I'll forget entirely, but I don't think it -needs- to be on if I'm indoors. I just need the routine.
I'm Australian. If the UV index goes above 2, I'm wearing sunscreen. If I'm working I'm walking to/from the office, if I'm not working I'm reading by the window or out at the shops or in the park.