World Sunscreen Day 2025: Significance and the role of lifestyle changes

India Today

27-05-2025

World Sunscreen Day, observed annually on May 27, serves as a global reminder of the critical importance of sun protection for skin health. As we mark World Sunscreen Day 2025, the spotlight is not only on the use of sunscreen but also on the broader lifestyle choices that work in tandem to safeguard our skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.advertisementWorld Sunscreen Day 2025 is a timely reminder that while sunscreen is indispensable for skin protection, it is most effective when integrated into a holistic lifestyle approach. By combining daily sunscreen use with healthy hydration, nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and protective behaviors, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of skin damage and promote lifelong skin health. Let this day inspire not just a single action, but a sustained commitment to comprehensive sun safety and well-being."One of the most common sunscreen mistakes is assuming a single SPF layer is enough — or that it'll always work well with your makeup. In reality, especially during summer, multiple layers can lead to oxidized, cakey finishes and clogged pores, often causing breakouts. What's in trend today isn't just SPF — it's minimalism. Instead of layering too many products, opt for skincare-infused makeup or sunscreen-infused formulas. These smart hybrids not only protect your skin but also deliver a radiant, healthy glow — all in one effortless step", says Saahil Nayar, Co-Founder and MD at Mila Beaute, skincare infused makeup.SIGNIFICANCE OF WORLD SUNSCREEN DAYadvertisement
World Sunscreen Day is dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of unprotected sun exposure and the essential role sunscreen plays in preventing skin damage. Sunscreen acts as an invisible shield, blocking or reflecting UV rays—especially UVB rays, which are known to cause sunburn and significantly increase the risk of skin cancer. Regular use of sunscreen helps reduce premature aging, wrinkles, and sun-induced skin damage, making it a non-negotiable part of daily skin care, regardless of the season or weather.The observance is also a call to dispel common myths, such as the belief that darker skin tones do not require sun protection or that sunscreen is only necessary during summer or vacations. In reality, UV rays can penetrate clouds and glass, making year-round protection essential for everyone.WHY LIFESTYLE CHANGES MATTER EQUALLYWhile sunscreen is a cornerstone of sun safety, it is just one part of a comprehensive approach to skin health. Lifestyle changes play a crucial, complementary role in protecting and maintaining healthy skin."Putting on sunscreen in the morning might feel like enough, but that's where a lot of us go wrong. Many people think of sunscreen as a one-time step, just like using moisturizer or makeup. The reality, however, is that sunscreen's protective barrier naturally diminishes throughout the day. Activities like sweating, touching your face, or even prolonged exposure through a window can degrade its efficacy. So by the afternoon, your skin might not have much protection left, even if you started the day with it," added Ashish Chaudhary, AVP, group lead retail and training, at The Body Shop.KEY LIFESTYLE FACTORS FOR SKIN PROTECTIONadvertisementHydration: Drinking enough water is directly linked to improved skin hydration and elasticity. Studies have shown that individuals who use sunscreen regularly also tend to maintain better hydration habits, which can slow down skin aging and keep the skin barrier healthy.Balanced diet: Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants supports skin repair and resilience. Certain foods, such as those high in polyphenols (like green tea), can provide additional protection against UV-induced damage and inflammation.Regular exercise: Physical activity boosts circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to skin cells, aiding in toxin removal, and supporting cellular regeneration. Exercise-induced sweating also helps the skin's immune defense and can make skin cells behave more youthfully.Adequate sleep: Sufficient rest allows the skin to repair and regenerate. Lack of sleep can exacerbate inflammation and accelerate aging, undermining the protective effects of sunscreen.advertisementProtective clothing and shade: Wearing wide-brimmed hats, UV-blocking sunglasses, and long-sleeved clothing, as well as seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 am–3 pm), further reduces UV exposure.SUNSCREEN ND LIFESTYLESResearch indicates that while sunscreen is highly effective in preventing sunburn and skin cancer, its benefits are amplified when combined with healthy lifestyle practices. For example, hydration and a nutritious diet enhance the skin's natural defenses, while protective clothing and behavioral changes minimize direct UV exposure.