Does wearing sunscreen every day help with aging?

Yes, and the evidence is strong. A landmark study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine followed participants for four and a half years and found that those who used sunscreen daily showed no detectable skin ageing compared to those who used it only occasionally. UV exposure is the primary external cause of premature skin ageing.

UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and break down collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for firmness and elasticity. This process happens gradually and silently over years. The same study found that daily sunscreen users showed 24% less skin ageing than discretionary users. In India, where UV index levels are consistently high year-round, the protective effect of daily sunscreen use is particularly meaningful. Starting young and staying consistent is the most effective anti-ageing approach available.

Sources:
Hughes et al., Annals of Internal Medicine, 2013. Sunscreen and prevention of skin aging.