Here’s Why You Still Need To Wear Sunscreen Under Your Face Mask

Written by Sanya HamdaniSep 16, 2023
Here’s why you still need to wear sunscreen under your face mask

In the past few months, we have adjusted to a lot of new norms. Now, before stepping out of the house, you also grab your face mask along with car keys and cell phone. This has raised questions about the need for wearing sunscreen. A lot of people have assumed that your daily SPF can be given a break since the mask covers the majority of your face.

The reality is that even your multi-layered fabric mask cannot protect your skin from the harsh UV rays. Even if you don’t step out of the house for too long, applying sunscreen before that grocery run or walk around the block is a must. Here’s why…

 

UV rays can penetrate through the fabric

Some parts are still exposed to the sun

A cotton mask can offer protection of only up to SPF 7. UV rays can easily penetrate through the fabric and cause problems like pigmentation, sun spots, premature ageing and more. Irrespective of whether you’re wearing a mask indoors or outdoors, you will still need to wear SPF. A lot of glass windows do not block UVA rays, which are quite harmful to the skin.

 

Prevents tan lines

Some parts are still exposed to the sun

Skipping sunscreen may end up making you look like a racoon. When parts of your face are exposed to the sun while others are hidden under the mask, chances of you developing prominent tan lines are higher. As a general practice and good skincare habit, slather on sunscreen all over your face as you normally do, without skipping the area that will be under the mask.

 

Some parts are still exposed to the sun

Some parts are still exposed to the sun

As you are well aware, some parts of your face are still exposed to the sun. To stay protected from sun damage under the mask, it is best to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a matte finish like the Ponds Sun Protect Non-Oily Sunscreen SPF 50 to prevent a greasy mess.

Sanya Hamdani

Written by

Sanya Hamdani is a skincare enthusiast and lipstick hoarder, she truly believes no two red lipsticks look exactly alike. With a Master's degree in Communication & Journalism and 5+ years of digital writing experience up her sleeve, Sanya has some of the biggest beauty experts in the country on her speed dial. When she's not swatching products or writing about the latest trends in beauty, you will find her watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S. or cooking up a storm in the kitchen.

13027 views

Shop This Story