Why You Need Sunscreen Every Day + 7 Best Picks to Try

One more time for the people in the back rows: you need to apply sunscreen everyday!

We’re in the final quarter of 2024, India has recently lost a Test series at home after 12 years, climate change has ensured it’s still a long way before we see any semblance of a winter, Donald Trump is back as POTUS… and some of you are still not applying sunscreen everyday?

Just in case it needed to be said one more time —why else am I writing this story—applying sunscreen every single day of your life is essential to not only help fight signs of ageing but also prevent skin cancer. Sure, I could’ve gone without mentioning the cancer bit even though it's an absolutely crucial point, but I’m not one for skipping an opportunity to be dramatic and reading the C-word might convince you more than, say, preventing sunburn (another harmful effect of missing out on SPF).

If you don’t already, start applying sunscreen everyday. Whether it’s a sunny day or a rainy or cold one. And reapply it every few hours.

Why should you use sunscreen?

If you’re still looking for reasons, here are a few:

Prevents skin cancer which can be caused due to harmful UV rays from the sun
Helps fight premature signs of ageing such as wrinkles and age spots
Thwarts sunburn and irritation
Helps in dealing with discolouration by preventing sun spots

What to look for when buying sunscreen?

When looking for sunscreen, it’s important to remember a few basics. First and foremost, the sunscreen has to be compatible with your skin type. Once you’ve got that sorted, here are a few other things to keep in mind:

The sunscreen you buy shouldn’t leave a white cast
Should be water and sweat resistant
It should offer broad-spectrum protection (both UVA and UVB rays)
Should also be a minimum of SPF 30, if not more

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Sunscreens For You To Try

While all the products mentioned here work wonderfully, my personal pick would be Thank You Farmer’s Sun Project Water Sun Cream—it’s quick to absorb, leaves no white cast and works perfectly well with oily skin, even in those humid monsoon months.