UVA radiation at night

I wear lots of sunscreen when I'm out during the day, but to prevent further sun damage, I run or jog at night (sometimes up to two hours, sometimes more).

I know that the moon and stars reflect some UV light.  Though I know I won't get any (or much) color from it, is there enough UVA radiation present to cause skin damage?  Do I need sunscreen at night?  When do I need to start wearing it?  Only once the sun is visible to the human eye?

[Jasmina Jankicevic, MD, MSc, CCRP]

Welcome to the Dermatology Expert Forum!

Sunscreens are not needed at night (as far as scientific knowledge goes in regards to the effects of UV rays coming from the moon and stars, as well as some minor indoor sources).

Of course, continue to use sunscreens diligently throughout the day (daylight). You will find a lot of useful sun protection tips on the American Academy of Dermatology website: http://www.aad.org/skin-care-and-safety/skin-cancer-prevention/be-sun-smart.

Wishing You Optimal Health,
DR. Jasmina Jankicevic