While applying sunscreen on sunny days is second nature to many, it's just as important to protect your skin when the skies are overcast. Contrary to popular belief, clouds do not block ultraviolet (UV) rays. In fact, up to 80% of UV radiation can penetrate cloud cover, increasing the risk of skin damage even without direct sunlight. For this reason, daily sunscreen application should be a consistent part of your skincare routine, regardless of the weather. Protecting your skin from UV exposure is essential in preventing premature aging, sunburn, and long-term damage.

It’s a common misconception that sunscreen isn’t necessary when the sun isn’t visible. However, ultraviolet (UV) rays can still penetrate cloud cover and reach your skin, potentially leading to sunburn, premature aging, and increased risk of skin cancer. Even on overcast days, UV exposure remains a concern. That’s why daily sun protection is essential, regardless of the weather. Keeping SPF as part of your routine ensures your skin stays protected and healthy in the long term.

Cloudy skies may seem harmless, but ultraviolet (UV) rays can still pass through and damage the skin. Skipping sunscreen when it’s overcast can have lasting effects that go beyond a single day of exposure. Potential consequences of unprotected UV exposure include:

• Premature aging, including fine lines and wrinkles
• Sunspots and uneven skin tone
• Increased risk of sunburn
• Higher likelihood of developing skin cancer

Even when the sun isn’t visibly shining, UV radiation remains active. Incorporating a broad-spectrum sunscreen into your daily routine is essential for long-term skin health and protection—rain or shine.

To ensure full coverage and effective protection, apply approximately one shot glass worth of sunscreen (about 1 ounce) to your entire body. For the face alone, a nickel-sized dollop is recommended. Using too little reduces the sunscreen’s ability to shield your skin from UV damage.

It’s easy to overlook certain spots during application, but areas like the ears, neck, tops of the feet, backs of the hands, and even the scalp (especially along the hairline or in thinning areas) are just as vulnerable to sun exposure. Make sure these areas receive the same attention as the rest of your body.

Sunscreen is not a one-and-done product. Reapply every two hours, and immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying. Regular reapplication ensures continued protection throughout the day, especially during extended time outdoors.

Incorporating sunscreen into your everyday routine doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple adjustments, protecting your skin can become second nature. Apply sunscreen as the final step in your morning skincare routine, just before makeup. For added convenience, opt for tinted or moisturizing SPF formulas that combine multiple benefits in one step. To ensure continued protection throughout the day, keep a travel-sized sunscreen in your bag for easy reapplication. If you're spending time outdoors, consider setting a reminder on your phone every two hours so you don’t forget to reapply. These small habits go a long way in maintaining healthy, protected skin all year round.

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. This ensures protection against both UVA and UVB rays, even when the sun isn’t visibly shining.

Even on cloudy days, reapply sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after sweating or exposure to water, just as you would on a sunny day.

Yes. UV rays can be just as strong and harmful on overcast days, especially UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to aging and skin cancer.

Commonly missed areas include the ears, neck, scalp, tops of the feet, and the backs of hands. Be thorough to ensure full protection.

If you're near windows or working under strong artificial lights (like LED or halogen), UV exposure is still possible. A lightweight SPF is recommended for daily indoor wear.