If there’s one skincare rule that deserves a golden crown, it’s this: Never skip your sunscreen. No matter your skin tone, skin type, or the weather outside — sunscreen is the single most important product in your morning routine. While cleansers, serums, and moisturizers work for your skin, sunscreen works for your future.

It’s your everyday shield against sun damage, premature aging, dark spots, and skin cancer. Without sunscreen, even the best skincare products can’t fully protect you from UV damage — think of it as building a palace and leaving it exposed to a storm.

UVA vs UVB — why both matter

The sun emits two types of ultraviolet rays: UVA (ages your skin) and UVB (burns your skin). UVA is present year-round and even passes through clouds and windows — so sunscreen matters indoors and during monsoon too. Many actives (Vitamin C, Retinol) increase sun sensitivity, so SPF is essential when using them.

Which sunscreen should you pick?

For oily skin choose lightweight, gel or matte formulas. Dry skin benefits from creamier SPFs with hydrating actives like hyaluronic acid. Sensitive skin does well with mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide). For daily indoor exposure, a lightweight broad-spectrum SPF 30 is fine — when outside for long, step up protection and reapply frequently.

Make sunscreen a habit

Consistency is the key. Apply sunscreen as the last step of your morning routine (after moisturizer, before makeup). If you use actives in your routine, apply sunscreen every morning without fail. Pookie Glow can remind you and track whether you applied SPF today — consider that skin security.