Let’s set the record straight: You need to wear sunscreen even if you are staying indoors the whole day.

These are two types of ultraviolet (UV) rays that cause damage to your skin and even your DNA. Most glass used indoors and in cars can protect us from UVB, but some UVA rays have the ability to penetrate through window glass.

UVA is linked to wrinkles, skin cell damage and sunspots. It is also linked to skin cancer. Hence, you really have to make sunscreen part of your morning routine even if the agenda is just staying in front of your computer while working at home or binge-watching that latest series. This is even more important if your working desk or couch is near a window.

The sun protection factor (SPF) is important, too. Just because you’re indoors doesn’t mean any sunblock will do. You have to reach for something that has an SPF of at least 30. Don’t be afraid to go higher if it’s available to you.

Don’t scrimp on your sunblock application. For the face, use a blob about the size of a nickel. Apply on your neck and ears. You also should apply sunblock on any other part of your body that’s not protected by clothes.

Reapply often

Reapplying is also important even when you’re inside. Reapply every so often as you would if you were outdoors. Every two hours is the most ideal interval between sunscreen applications.

It’s also important to emphasize that you should always use sunblock on its own. Don’t rely on moisturizers or facial sprays that have added SPF. No matter how high the SPF they promise, it usually isn’t enough. Also, these products usually cannot have a high SPF content; otherwise it would disrupt the formula. A separate sunblock is best.

I’m using the Fillmed Laboratories Skin Perfusion E Youth 50 Sun Cream. It contains SPF 50 and protects from UVA and UVB rays. It also has vitamin E and B3 to help with skin regeneration.

If I’m out of that, I opt for the Clarins UV PLUS Anti-Pollution Sunscreen Multi-Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 50. It’s oil-free and contains Clarins’ Anti-Pollution Complex so it’s ideal for when you really need to leave the house.

If I don’t want something too heavy, there is the Estée Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50. It has eight different antioxidants and also dehydration defense since air-conditioning can dry out skin.

There’s also the Some by Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Suncream. This is unique as it pairs SPF 50+ with yuja and lotus extracts, and niacinamide to help brighten dull, uneven skin tone. INQ

Clarins and Estée Lauder are available at Rustan’s The Beauty Source. Follow Fillmed Laboratories @fillmed_philippines on Instagram; Some by Mi via k-posh.com