Long before sunscreen bottles lined pharmacy shelves, cultures around the world were already seeking ways to shield their skin from the sun. Ancient civilizations used natural ingredients such as rice bran, jasmine, and mineral pastes and clays to protect themselves from harsh sunlight. Modern sunscreen, however, only began to emerge in the early 20th century, when scientists started studying ultraviolet radiation and its effects on the skin. By the 1970s, the concept of SPF — Sun Protection Factor — transformed how we measure protection from the sun.
SPF refers specifically to protection against UVB rays, the ultraviolet radiation responsible for sunburn. An SPF 15 blocks about 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30 sunscreen blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks roughly 98%. What SPF does not measure is protection against UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and are largely responsible for premature ageing, pigmentation, and long-term skin damage. This is why choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential.
Sun exposure is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when both UVA and UVB radiation peak. Yet even on cloudy days or during winter months, UVA rays remain present, quietly affecting the skin. Daily sunscreen, therefore, is less of a seasonal habit and more of a year-round ritual.
Modern sunscreens generally fall into two categories: chemical and mineral. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, often offering lightweight textures that blend seamlessly into the skin. Mineral, or physical, sunscreens use filters such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to reflect and scatter UV radiation on the skin’s surface. These formulas are often favored by people with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
In recent years, certain sunscreen ingredients have come under scrutiny. Filters such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, and PABA have raised concerns due to possible skin sensitivities, hormonal effects, and environmental impact, particularly on coral reefs. As a result, many modern formulations focus on gentler, more environmentally conscious filters.
For oily or acne-prone skin, texture matters. Lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreens are ideal, and if the formula already contains hydrating ingredients, layering a heavy moisturiser underneath may not be necessary. Too many layers can increase shine and clog pores.Causing break-outs. For dry skin, however, layering a moisturiser underneath sunscreen can provide beneficial extra hydration. Those with normal skin can simply judge what feels best depending on the season, climate, and the richness of the sunscreen itself.
If you wear makeup, allow your sunscreen a few minutes to fully absorb into the skin before applying foundation or concealer. This helps prevent pilling and ensures the sunscreen forms an even protective layer.
And finally, remember the golden rule: reapply every two hours when exposed to the sun, and always after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
One last detail often overlooked: sunscreen does expire. Over time, UV filters lose their effectiveness, meaning older formulas may no longer provide reliable protection. To ensure your skin stays properly protected, it’s best to replace your sunscreen regularly and start each new season with a fresh bottle.
Because in skincare, sunscreen is not just protection, it is prevention, elegance, and care for the skin’s future.
Fun Facts about sunscreen
1. Sunscreen was inspired by mountaineers
One of the first modern sunscreens was created in the 1930s by Swiss chemist after he suffered severe sunburn while climbing the Piz Buin. His invention later became the basis for one of the first commercial sunscreens.
2. The SPF system is relatively new
The SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating system we use today was only introduced in 1962, helping consumers finally understand how much protection a sunscreen could provide.
3. Sunscreen helps prevent wrinkles
Up to 90% of visible skin ageing is caused by sun exposure rather than time itself. Daily sunscreen is considered one of the most effective anti-aging habits.
4. You probably apply too little
Studies show most people apply only 25–50% of the recommended amount of sunscreen, which means the real protection is much lower than the SPF number on the bottle.
5. Sunscreen works on cloudy days
Even when the sky is overcast, up to 80% of UV rays can still reach your skin, which is why dermatologists recommend wearing sunscreen every day.
6. Snow and water reflect UV rays
Snow can reflect up to 80–90% of UV radiation, which is why sunburns are common during skiing holidays even when temperatures are low.
7. Sunscreen in space
Astronauts on the NASA missions use extremely strong UV protection because solar radiation is significantly more intense outside Earth’s atmosphere.
8. Some sunscreens protect the ocean too
Many modern formulas are now labeled reef-safe, meaning they avoid filters like oxybenzone and octinoxate that can damage coral reefs.
