Sunscreen Day: Use sunscreen only in the morning? Why you might be doing it wrong

Time of India

27-05-2025

Experts emphasize that morning sunscreen application is insufficient due to its breakdown from sweat, environmental factors, and window exposure. Reapplication every 2-3 hours is crucial, even indoors, to combat UVA rays that cause aging and pigmentation. Incorporating SPF-infused products and adopting consistent habits, like carrying travel-size sunscreen, significantly improves long-term skin health, regardless of skin tone or season.
For many, sunscreen still feels like a beach-day essential or something to slap on before stepping out into harsh sunlight. But in 2025, with skin awareness at an all-time high and skincare innovations constantly evolving, it's time we upgrade our understanding of SPF.
One thing experts unanimously agree on? Applying sunscreen only in the morning is one of the most common skincare mistakes.
As we celebrate Sunscreen Day, let's discuss why reapplication matters, what you might be doing wrong, and how small changes to your SPF routine can significantly improve your skin's health and longevity.
Morning SPF isn't enough, here's why
'Applying sunscreen only in the morning might seem enough, but that's where most people get it wrong,' says Ashish Chaudhary, AVP, Group Lead Retail and Training, at The Body Shop.
'Sunscreen is a protective layer that breaks down through the day - due to sweat, touching your face, environmental exposure, or even sitting near a window. So by afternoon, you're often left with little to no effective sun protection.'
While we might think we're covered after our AM skincare ritual, SPF effectiveness naturally declines over a few hours. And if you're working indoors by a window or driving around town, UVA rays, the primary cause of long-term ageing and pigmentation, can easily reach your skin.
Reapplying sunscreen: More than a trend
Dermatologists and skincare experts recommend reapplying sunscreen every 2-3 hours, even if you're not actively sunbathing or trekking outdoors. If you're commuting, taking meetings by a window, or sitting in traffic, your skin is still at risk.
'UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, accelerating ageing and increasing the risk of skin cancers,' explains Dr. Jeet Patel, Founder of Formial Labs.
'For Indian skin, which is more prone to pigmentary concerns like melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, daily sunscreen use is non-negotiable.
A broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is essential, reapplied twice daily.'
The sunscreen myth: Indoors means safe?
Many of us assume that if we're not outdoors, sunscreen isn't necessary. That couldn't be further from the truth.
'UVA rays, the ones that cause ageing and long-term skin damage, can pass through windows,' warns Nitin Jain, Founder of La Pink. 'So yes, even indoor days call for SPF if you're near natural light.'
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This applies to cloudy days as well. As Malini Adapureddy, Founder & CEO of Deconstruct, points out: 'UVA rays can penetrate through clouds and glass, causing long-term skin damage even without visible sunlight.
What helps is using sunscreens that are water-resistant, lightweight, and tailored to your skin type.'
Makeup and reapplication: You don't have to compromise
If you think reapplying SPF will mess with your makeup, there are now clever solutions for that. SPF-infused setting sprays, powders, and sticks are designed for easy touch-ups.
'Just pop one in your bag and refresh your protection without ruining your look,' says Nitin Jain.
'A helpful guideline is the 'three-finger rule',' advises Shiv Khandelwal, Creative Director and Luxury Lifestyle Influencer.
'Dispense sunscreen along the length of three fingers for the face and neck. It ensures proper coverage without going overboard or leaving a white cast.'
Sunscreen: Not just for fair skin or summer days
A common myth is that deeper skin tones don't need sunscreen or that it's unnecessary in winter.
'UV damage is not limited to one skin type,' warns Dr. Shifa Yadav, Dermatologist at Artemis Hospitals. 'As much as 80% of UV light gets through clouds. UVA radiation is constant year-round, so sunscreen is essential regardless of the season or your skin tone.'
FILE - Cleveland Indians right fielder Melky Cabrera sprays sunscreen before a baseball game against the Texas Rangers, Sunday, July 22, 2018, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Sam Hodde, File)
Also, never underestimate the impact of expired products. As Dr. Yadav notes: 'Old sunscreen loses potency and may harm your skin. Don't use random formulas, always choose one suited to your skin type, and ensure it's within expiry.'
The long-term payoff of sunscreen discipline
'The conversation around sun protection needs to move beyond just SPF numbers,' notes Ashish Chaudhary.
'It's about building small but consistent habits, like carrying a travel-size sunscreen and reapplying during lunch.
That shift can dramatically impact your skin's health over time.'
The biggest contributor to premature ageing is UV radiation. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with PA++++ should be in your skincare vanity at all times. Even if you're indoors, applying sunscreen is nonnegotiable and should become a habit. Blue light from mobile phones and laptops can also trigger skin ageing; thus, choose a sunscreen that has blue light protection and can save you in the future.(Image Credits: Pinterest)
Dr. Blossom Kochhar, a pioneer in aromatherapy and skincare, adds: 'With increasing environmental aggressors, prolonged screen exposure, and relentless UV rays, reapplying sunscreen throughout the day is no longer optional, it's essential.'
Quick tips to remember:
✅ Use SPF 30 or higher
✅ Reapply every 2–3 hours - even if indoors
✅ Choose a sunscreen suited to your skin type
✅ Don't forget neck, ears, hands, and around the eyes
✅ Use SPF powders or sprays over makeup for easy reapplication
Sunscreen isn't a one-time morning fix, it's a protective ritual that demands consistency. Whether you're chasing glowing skin, preventing premature ageing, or shielding yourself from more serious risks like melanoma and pigmentation, sunscreen is your skin's most trusted ally.
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So this Sunscreen Day, go beyond the basics. Rethink your routine. Reapply. And remember: your skin will thank you tomorrow for what you do today.
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