Sunscreen isn't seasonal—Myths you seriously need to stop believing
Let's separate fact from fiction.
Myth 1: Sunscreen is only needed during summer or when it's sunny
Fact: UV radiation is present all year round, regardless of weather or temperature.
Research
shows that up to 80% of UV rays still reach your skin even on cloudy or rainy days. UVA rays, in particular, penetrate deep into the skin and accelerate ageing, pigmentation, and collagen breakdown. Daily sunscreen use is crucial—rain or shine.
Myth 2: Sunscreen isn't necessary indoors
Fact: UVA rays can penetrate glass, including windows at home, in your car, or at the office.
This constant low-level exposure contributes to cumulative skin damage, even if you're not stepping outside. If you spend long hours near a window, you should still apply sunscreen, especially on the face, neck, and hands.
Myth 3: Darker skin tones don't need sunscreen
Fact: While melanin provides some natural UV protection, it's not enough to prevent sun damage. People with deeper skin tones are still prone to hyperpigmentation, uneven tone, and long-term damage.
More importantly, skin cancers in darker skin are often diagnosed later, which can lead to worse outcomes. Everyone, regardless of skin tone, should use SPF.
Myth 4: Makeup with SPF is enough
Fact: SPF in makeup is a helpful bonus, but not a replacement for standalone sunscreen. Most people don't apply enough makeup to achieve the level of sun protection claimed on the label. Think of SPF in your foundation as a top-up not your primary shield. For real protection, use sunscreen first, then layer makeup on top.
Sun protection is not a seasonal habit it's a lifelong commitment. Whether it's sunny, cloudy, rainy, or snowy, sunscreen should be the final step of your morning routine, every day.
Sun damage is silent and cumulative it builds up over years. Wearing sunscreen daily is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to future-proof your skin. The next time you wonder whether to skip sunscreen because it's gloomy weather or you're indoors, remember this sun damage is silent, cumulative and often shows up years later. Today, by taking a few seconds to apply sunscreen -- you can go a long way in keeping your skin healthier tomorrow.
Dr Vikram Lahoria, Consultant Dermatologist and Medical Advisor, Ceuticoz
One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
13 hours ago
- Time of India
Yoga and Anxiety: Finding Calm Through Ancient Wisdom
In a world racing with deadlines, social pressures, and a constant buzz of technology, anxiety has become an unwelcome companion for many. Yet, as countless people search for relief from worry and restlessness, a growing number are finding refuge in the ancient Indian science of yoga—a practice woven with wisdom, breath, and movement. The Ancient Roots of Modern Calm Yoga is much more than a series of physical postures. Rooted in centuries-old teachings, it brings together mind, body, and breath, creating a holistic approach to health. Pranayama (breathwork), meditation, and asanas (postures) are central to yoga's power in calming anxious minds. Real-life Transformations Consider the story of Sakshi Sharma, a young marketing executive in Delhi, overwhelmed by job stress and social anxiety. After repeated bouts of insomnia and panic attacks, she started attending local yoga classes focused on breath control and gentle postures. Simple practices like Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) and Child's Pose (Balasana) became part of her morning routine. Within weeks, she noticed a significant shift—her sleep improved, she began managing workplace stress better, and the haze of anxiety slowly lifted. Similar experiences have been reported in Mumbai's business hubs, where pressure is relentless. Kuber Tomar, an IT manager, struggled with anxiety-induced migraines. Turning to yoga, he practiced daily Kapalbhati (skull-shining breath) and Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) after reading about their benefits for stress relief. 'Yoga taught me not just postures, but how to slow my breath and calm my mind,' he shares. 'Now, the migraines are rare, and anxiety doesn't control my workday.' Why Does Yoga Help? Yoga works at multiple levels: Physical: It helps release tension stored in muscles, especially those tightened by stress—the neck, shoulders, and lower back. Mental: The focus on breath and movement acts as a meditative anchor, drawing attention away from racing thoughts and grounding the mind Emotional: Regular practice cultivates a sense of empowerment, self-awareness, and acceptance. Baba Ramdev , a leading proponent of modern yoga, prescribes specific pranayamas—like Anulom Vilom, Bhastrika, and Kapalbhati—to alleviate anxiety, recommending just five minutes a day to begin seeing results. He explains, 'By doing these pranayams, the mind becomes calm, irritability gradually reduces, and the body feels relaxed'. Practical Steps: Poses and Pranayama Some effective starting points for tackling anxiety include: Child's Pose (Balasana): Restores emotional balance by promoting introspection and gentle stretching. Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana): Harmonizes breath with movement and eases tension. Tree Pose (Vrksasana): Enhances focus and inner calm, reducing anxious thoughts. Pranayama: Anulom Vilom and Kapalbhati boost oxygen supply and clear mental fog. Ancient wisdom and modern advice Acharya Balkrishna , an authority on Ayurveda and yoga, frames yoga's gifts beautifully: 'Who will not be delighted to behold the exotic scenery and flora of the barren lands of the Himalayas? Similar is the power of Yoga which beautifies the deserted life and fructifies hope in the shattered hearts. By taking refuge in Yog, the fallow mind will blossom into flowers indeed'. Another insightful quote from Acharya Balkrishna underscores the journey: 'The benefits of Yog or Pranayam constitute a fact that can be established only from personal experience and regular practice'. Anxiety is a complex, deeply personal experience, but the ancient wisdom of yoga offers a gentle, proven path to calm. Whether you are a busy professional, student, or homemaker, integrating yoga into your day can gradually transform anxiety into resilience and restlessness into peace. The journey begins with a single breath, and as the sages remind us, blossoms with regular practice and self-discovery. For people struggling with anxiety, this philosophy offers a practical and sustainable approach. Instead of only treating symptoms, yoga works to address the root cause, which is often a restless and overactive mind. Through breathwork (pranayama), mindful postures (asanas), and meditation, practitioners learn to slow down their thoughts, creating mental space and emotional resilience.
India.com
a day ago
- India.com
Rain Or Shine: Why You Still Need Sunscreen This Monsoon
As the monsoon season sweeps in with cloudy skies, cool breezes, and the refreshing scent of rain-soaked earth, many people happily tuck away their sunscreen, assuming it's no longer needed. After all, if the sun isn't blazing overhead, why worry about sun damage? Unfortunately, this is one of the biggest skincare myths of all time. Nitin Jain, Founder, La Pink shares why you still need sunscreen this monsoon. The Invisible Threat: UV Rays Don't Take a Break Clouds may cover the sun, but they don't block out ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate through cloud cover, and these are the very rays responsible for premature skin aging, pigmentation, and even skin cancer. During the monsoon, while the skies may appear overcast, the risk of UV damage persists—and often goes unnoticed. UVA vs. UVB: Understanding the Culprits There are two main types of harmful UV rays: • UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and are largely responsible for aging and long-term skin damage. These rays are present year-round, rain or shine. • UVB rays cause sunburn and tend to vary in intensity with the seasons and time of day. While UVB might be slightly reduced on a cloudy day, UVA rays are consistent and relentless. That's why dermatologists insist on broad-spectrum sunscreen every day, including during the rainy season. Reflections and Rain: A Double Whammy Water is reflective. Rain-soaked roads, puddles, and wet surfaces can bounce UV rays back onto your skin, increasing your exposure without you realizing it. If you're traveling, walking, or spending time outdoors—even with an umbrella—your skin is still vulnerable. Common Excuses vs. Skincare Reality "It's not sunny today." Reality: UV rays are still active and can cause damage. "I'm mostly indoors." Reality: UVA rays can penetrate glass windows—yes, even at home or in the car. "I don't want to feel sticky in this humidity." Reality: Lightweight, gel-based sunscreens are specially designed for humid weather. They absorb quickly and don't leave a greasy residue. Choosing the Right Sunscreen for the Monsoon Look for: • SPF 30 or higher with broad-spectrum protection (UVA + UVB) • Water-resistant formulas, especially if you're commuting or sweating • Non-comedogenic products if you're prone to breakouts in humid weather • Lightweight or gel-based sunscreens to avoid that heavy, oily feeling Make It a Daily Habit Sunscreen isn't a seasonal product—it's a year-round necessity. Whether it's sunny, rainy, or somewhere in between, applying sunscreen daily is the easiest and most effective way to protect your skin from long-term damage.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Time of India
Cancer risk and the link with your habits; how to stay safe, lifestyle choices and family history
Leading health experts emphasize that lifestyle choices significantly impact cancer and dementia risk. Adopting healthy habits like avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and eating a plant-rich diet are crucial for cancer prevention. A recent study also reveals that lifestyle interventions can slow cognitive decline, even for those genetically predisposed to Alzheimer's. Everyday habits could be silently raising your cancer risk, here's how to stay safe and take control Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Cancer risk and the lifestyle connection Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Key factors that reduce cancer risk: Avoid Tobacco Products: Smoking remains the leading cause of cancer and cancer deaths globally. It's directly linked to cancers of the lung, mouth, throat, bladder, kidney, and more. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is associated with increased risk for at least 13 types of cancer, including breast, liver, colon, and pancreatic cancers. Stay Physically Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week. Eat a Plant-Rich Diet: Focus on whole foods, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and nuts. Limit red and processed meats, refined sugars, and saturated fats. Limit Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol increases risk for several cancers, including breast, colorectal, and liver. If you drink, do so in moderation (one drink per day for women, two for men). Protect Your Skin from the Sun: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a major cause of skin cancer. Use broad-spectrum SPF, wear protective clothing, and avoid tanning beds. Hydrate Wisely: Though not a direct cancer-fighting strategy, drinking enough fluids, around 8-13 cups daily, supports healthy cellular function and may reduce risks for certain cancers like bladder and colon. Know Your Family History: Genetic predispositions matter. Share your family's cancer history with your doctor and consider genetic counseling if needed. Get Regular Checkups and Screenings: Early detection saves lives. Annual visits after age 50 (or every 3 years before that) allow physicians to screen for cancers like breast, cervical, prostate, and colorectal cancer. Less obvious (but critical) risk factors to watch: Chronic Stress: Stress doesn't cause cancer directly, but it can weaken immune response and increase inflammation, both contributors to disease development. Infections: Viruses such as HPV and Hepatitis B have direct links to cancers like cervical and liver cancer. Environmental Exposures: Workplace toxins, air pollution, and chemicals in plastics and cosmetics may also raise risk, especially over time. Why cancer isn't just an 'Older Person's' disease anymore Tips for Young Adults in Their 20s and 30s: Cut out or avoid tobacco. Focus on whole, fiber-rich foods and healthy fats. Move daily, walk, swim, dance, lift. Get regular Pap smears, colon cancer screenings (if family history applies), and HPV vaccinations. Practice safe sex to reduce infection-related cancer risk. Limit screen time and stress, and protect your mental health. The brain-body connection: How lifestyle slows cognitive decline The MIND diet Leafy greens and other vegetables Berries (especially blueberries) Nuts Whole grains Fish (at least once a week) Olive oil over butter Limited red meat and sweets Why you shouldn't wait until you're older Cancer and dementia are among the most feared health threats of our time. While genetics and aging are unchangeable factors, a growing body of research continues to affirm one powerful truth, lifestyle choices your 20s to your 80s, embracing a healthy way of life can significantly reduce your cancer risk and potentially protect your brain from cognitive decline Leading health experts, including Dr. Mohammed Salhab of AdventHealth Hematology and Oncology in Denver, and researchers behind a landmark Alzheimer's Association study, are urging people of all ages to take charge of their health."Adopting a healthy lifestyle is one of the most effective strategies we have to lower cancer risk," says Dr. Salhab. "While not every case of cancer can be prevented, the evidence is overwhelming that diet, exercise, and other lifestyle habits play a major role."Recent research highlights a concerning trend: cancers of the digestive system, such as colorectal, gastric, and pancreatic cancers, are rising among adults under 50."It's more important than ever for young people to be proactive," says Dr. Salhab. 'Early lifestyle choices set the foundation for long-term health.'According to the groundbreaking US POINTER study, led by the Alzheimer's Association and presented this July at the International Conference in Toronto, lifestyle interventions helped slow cognitive decline in people aged 60 to 79, even those at high genetic risk for Alzheimer's.A blend of the Mediterranean and DASH diets, the MIND diet focuses on:This same diet also aligns with many cancer-preventive dietary you're in your 20s or your 60s, the message is clear: the earlier you adopt healthy habits , the better your chances of preventing disease and maintaining quality of no single magic bullet to prevent cancer or cognitive decline, but there is a blueprint. Nutrition, movement, mental fitness, and early detection form a powerful defense. As Dr. Salhab reminds us: 'Prevention is always better than cure.'Start where you are. Every step counts.
