The era of ”working from home” is slowly fading away… (sigh how unlucky we are to have to go back to waking up at 6am to get ready for work). But still, even if you are not constantly at home like before, please continue your beauty regimen that you managed to adopt while stuck at home. And that includes wearing sunscreen every day.
Since we live in sunny Malaysia, don’t even think of not using sunscreen. And before you say, ”We’re not Mat Salleh, our melanin doesn’t need sunscreen”, girl, you better loose that attitude, because higher melanin levels are not enough protection against photo-aging or skin cancer. It’s absolutely imperative to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 for all skin types and tones. Also, daily sunscreen application prevents hyperpigmented areas of skin, or dark spots, from becoming darker, allowing for a more even skin tone overall. Another note to consider is that while the deepest skin tones may be harder to burn and not show the immediate effects of sun damage via redness, one can still feel the burn after long periods of intensive sun exposure.
Long story short, if your office has windows, or you’re required to sit in front of your computer for 9 hours, you definitely have to wear sunscreen. Keep reading to find out what kind of rays you should look out for indoors and how you can protect your skin from them on a daily basis.
What’s wrong with windows?
According to Joyce Park, a California-based, board-certified dermatologist: “It’s a common misconception that you don’t need to wear sunscreen when you’re indoors’’
“Standard glass windows block UVB but not UVA rays, which can penetrate deeper into the skin and they (UVA) are the main contributing factor to photo-ageing—which are changes seen as dark spots, wrinkles, and leathery textured skin.” So, while you won’t get sunburn through glass, our skin is still very susceptible to damage.
Even when you’re working from home, sitting by a window, putting the clothes out on the line; all these expose us to damaging UVA rays which accumulate over the day. If you’re working from a sunny room, more than 50% of UVA radiation can penetrate glass even within several feet. Wearing a broad spectrum of SPF 30 or higher even indoors will protect you from those rays, preventing both skin cancer and aging.
Too much screen-time
Blue light from your phone or laptop can also have the potential to damage skin while indoors. HEVL (high energy visible light, aka blue light) is emitted from electronic devices, like computers, TVs and phones. It penetrates deep into the skin and can result in damage like hyperpigmentation and melasma. Apart from investing in sunscreen, you can also put a filter on your computer or cell phone, place all your devices in night mode, and limit screen time altogether.
Also read: 5 Must Haves Makeup Products For Those With Sensitive Skin
Here are some of the best sunscreens to invest in:
SUPERGOOP! Glow Stick Sunscreen SPF 50 (RM115.00)
NEUTROGENA Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch (RM45.50)
FIRST AID BEAUTY 5 In 1 Face Cream With SPF 30 (RM197.00)
Avene Day Protector UV EX SPF30 PA+++ (RM75.92)
