While we don’t encourage it, there are some who don’t believe in applying sunscreen while going outside. Many assume they don’t need it, which can be a deadly decision to make, as the sun’s rays are the strongest during the summer season. There are so many benefits to using sunscreen; did you know that it does more than just protect your skin from UV rays? Here are some benefits you could see from adding sunscreen to your skincare routine.

1. It protects you from UV rays. We all need vitamin D, but choosing not to use sunscreen in order to obtain as much as we can isn’t worth the risk. Sunscreen blocks the sun’s UV rays from impacting our skin and stops them from kick-starting skin disorders and skin cancer.

2. It can help prevent premature aging. The more you stay out in the sun without proper protection, the more damaged your skin will become. Sunscreen can help our skin stay looking young, radiant, and healthy, preventing signs of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines. Studies have shown that those who use sunscreen and are under age 55 had 24% less chance of having these signs of aging, as opposed to those who don’t use sunscreen or only use it occasionally.

3. It can reduce your chances of developing skin cancer. Wearing sunscreen daily, especially for months at a time, will help protect your skin from various types of skin cancer, including melanoma. Melanoma is the worst type of skin cancer and can be life-threatening for women, even more so for those in their 20s.

4. It can reduce blotchiness on your face. Apply a generous amount of sunscreen to your face each time you go outdoors; this way, you’re protected from blotchiness and an eruption of red veins. This is essential in preventing the development of acne and other forms of skin damage.

5. It protects you from sunburns. One of the worst things to experience during an outdoor activity is sunburn. Sunburns weaken our skin, making it easier for bruises to form. That’s not the worst part, however. Sunburns can also create repetitive attacks of peeling, swelling, redness, hives, and itching – all of which come from UVB rays. Even worse than sunburn is sun blisters, which can greatly increase the risk of developing skin cancer. According to a 2008 study, research showed that reoccurring instances of sunburns can put you at a higher risk of lethal melanoma. Needless to say, using sunscreen is extremely important to our health.

6. It helps prevent tanning. While tanning can be healthy, you’re still at the risk of being harmed by UVB rays. Apply a sunscreen that has SPF of at least 30 to prevent tanning from UVB rays. Reapply every two hours, especially if your skin is sensitive or you have been sweating.