Sunscreen: Your Skin’s Secret Weapon for Health, Beauty, and Anti-Agei

Lifestyle

Sunscreen: Your Skin’s Secret Weapon for Health, Beauty, and Anti-Ageing

April 29, 2025

Let’s face it – sunscreen is your skin’s best friend. Whether you’re trying to protect your skin from harmful UV rays or slow down the signs of ageing, sunscreen plays a key role in keeping your skin healthy and youthful. But how did sunscreen come to be, and why is it so crucial for both health and anti-ageing efforts?

A Brief History of Sunscreen

Believe it or not, sunscreen wasn’t always the powerful skin protector we know today. It all began in the 1930s when Swiss chemist Franz Greiter developed one of the earliest forms of sunscreen after getting sunburned while climbing a mountain. A few years later, in 1936, Eugene Schueller, founder of L’Oréal, launched the first commercial sunscreen. While these early versions were far from perfect, they laid the groundwork for modern sun protection.

What Did Ancient Civilisations Use for Sunscreen?

Long before modern science, ancient civilisations were resourceful in protecting their skin from the sun. The Egyptians used natural ingredients like rice bran and jasmine, while the Greeks opted for olive oil. These provided some, albeit minimal, protection compared to today’s sunscreens. Natural oils can offer slight UV protection, but they certainly can’t compete with the broad-spectrum protection we have now.

What Is SPF Anyway?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it’s a way of measuring how well a sunscreen can protect your skin from UVB rays, the rays responsible for sunburn. The number tells you how much longer you can stay in the sun without burning compared to if you weren’t wearing any sunscreen at all. For instance, SPF 30 means you can be exposed to the sun 30 times longer without burning.

Common Sunscreen Myths…Busted!

There are plenty of myths floating around about sunscreen that can lead to confusion and improper use. Let’s clear a few of them up:

Myth 1: You only need sunscreen on sunny days.

Not true! UV rays can sneak through clouds, so even on cloudy days, your skin is at risk. Wearing sunscreen daily is a must, no matter the weather.

Myth 2: Dark skin doesn’t need sunscreen.

While darker skin has more melanin, offering some natural protection, it’s not enough to fully block harmful UV rays. People with darker skin are still at risk of sun damage, including skin cancer.

Myth 3: You don’t need sunscreen indoors.

Wrong again! UVA rays can penetrate glass windows, meaning you’re still exposed to them while sitting by a sunny window. So yes, sunscreen indoors is still important.

Sunscreen: Your #1 Defense Against Ageing

UV radiation is the primary culprit behind premature ageing, breaking down collagen and leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. Wearing sunscreen daily helps protect your skin from these effects, keeping it smoother and more elastic. Think of it as an essential part of your anti-ageing toolkit. In fact, sunscreen is often considered the most effective step you can take to keep your skin looking youthful.

Why Not All Sunscreens Are Created Equal

While sunscreen is vital, some formulas come with potential health and environmental concerns. At Dermessa, we know the importance of clean beauty, which is why we steer clear of harmful ingredients like:

Oxybenzone: Linked to hormone disruption and potential skin irritation.

Homosalate: Can build up in the body and is associated with hormone disruption.

Octocrylene: Can degrade into toxic by-products and damage marine ecosystems.

Octinoxate: Known to disrupt hormones and harm coral reefs.

These ingredients are banned in places like Hawaii and Key West to protect both human health and the environment.

Dermessa’s Commitment to Safe, Effective Sun Protection

At Dermessa, we exclusively stock physical sunscreens made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, mineral-based ingredients that sit on top of your skin and reflect harmful UV rays. These sunscreens are safe for both your skin and the planet, free from the harmful chemicals mentioned above.

We’re proud to partner with brands that prioritise not just skin health, but also sustainability and environmental care. With Dermessa’s carefully curated sunscreen collection, you’re not only protecting your skin but also making a conscious choice for a healthier future.

Explore our range today, and discover your new sunscreen favourite!