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The sun does not have to feel intense to affect the skin. Even on cloudy days, during a short walk outdoors, or while carrying out daily activities, the skin can still be exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Therefore, sunscreen should not only be used when the weather feels hot and sunny.

Lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine (FK) Untar dr. Hari Darmawan, Sp.DV., said UV exposure can affect the skin in both the short and long term.

UVB radiation primarily contributes to redness and sunburn. Meanwhile, UVA can penetrate deeper layers of the skin and trigger the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can contribute to collagen and elastin damage.

“UV exposure can also cause pigmentation, DNA damage, photoaging such as wrinkles and elastosis, and, in the long term, increase the risk of skin cancer,” said Hari.

Accumulated Damage

The effects of UV exposure are not always immediately visible. Skin damage can occur gradually and accumulate over time.

For this reason, skin protection should begin early. Regular sunscreen use can help reduce damage to collagen and elastin associated with the development of wrinkles and reduced skin elasticity.

Protection against UV radiation can also help prevent hyperpigmentation, such as dark spots and uneven skin tone. In the long term, protecting the skin from excessive UV exposure can also help reduce cell damage and the risk of skin cancer.

However, using sunscreen alone does not necessarily provide optimal protection. How it is applied also matters.

Hari said one common mistake is using too little sunscreen. Some people also apply it only when the sun feels intense or forget to reapply it after several hours.

Areas such as the ears, neck, and hands are also often overlooked, even though they are exposed to sunlight.

The assumption that sunscreen is unnecessary on cloudy days should also be addressed. Similarly, choosing a product based only on its SPF number without considering protection against both UVA and UVB should be avoided.

Choosing Sunscreen Based on Skin Condition

Sunscreen can be selected based on skin type and daily activities. People with oily or acne-prone skin can choose lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas. Those with dry skin may consider products with more moisturizing ingredients.

“Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30–50, approximately two finger lengths for the face and neck, and apply it 15–30 minutes before outdoor activities,” said Hari.

Sunscreen should be reapplied every two to three hours, particularly after sweating, swimming, or spending extended periods in direct sunlight.

Skin protection does not stop at sunscreen. Clothing that covers the skin and efforts to avoid excessive sun exposure can provide additional protection.

Ultimately, using sunscreen is not merely about appearance. This simple habit is part of maintaining skin health in the long term.

With consistent protection from an early age, the risks associated with UV exposure, ranging from sunburn and hyperpigmentation to premature aging and more serious skin damage, can be reduced. (VC/YS)