Suns out Buns out, Sunscreen 101
- Dec 11, 2025
- 6 min read
Updated: Jul 30
Enjoy the sun without the burn. Everything you need to know to protect yourself from the sun and look good in the process. Sunscreen provides reliable protection against harmful UV rays, allowing you to enjoy the beach all day long. Look hot and be safe using the proper sunscreen application and other eco-friendly measures to avoid a Sunburn!
Why should I use Sunscreen?
You need to use sunscreen to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV rays can damage your skin cells, causing sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen helps to prevent these harmful effects by either reflecting or absorbing the UV radiation before it penetrates your skin.
Using sunscreen regularly can also help to prevent discoloration, dark spots, and fine lines caused by UV damage, helping your skin look younger and healthier. Additionally, wearing sunscreen can prevent discomfort and pain from sunburn, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities without the risk of skin damage.
Sunscreen should be used in conjunction with other sun protection measures, such as wearing protective clothing, seeking shade during peak sun hours, and avoiding tanning beds. However, sunscreen is a crucial component of a comprehensive sun protection plan and should be used daily, even on cloudy or overcast days, as UV radiation can still penetrate through clouds and cause skin damage.
I have darker skin, why do I need Sunscreen?
Regardless of skin tone, everyone should use sunscreen regularly and take other measures to protect their skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation. However, people with darker skin tones may have a lower risk of skin cancer than those with lighter skin tones, but they can still suffer from sun damage, premature aging, and other skin conditions caused by UV radiation.
People with darker skin tones may also be more susceptible to hyperpigmentation, which is an increase in skin color due to the overproduction of melanin. Sun exposure can worsen hyperpigmentation, making it more important to protect the skin with sunscreen and protective clothing.
It's important to note that people with darker skin tones may need to use more sunscreen than those with lighter skin tones to get adequate protection. This is because darker skin tones have more melanin, which provides some natural protection against UV radiation but can also make it harder for sunscreen to penetrate the skin. For this reason, people with darker skin tones should use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and to reapply every two hours or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
How do we determine our Sun Exposure Risk?
Know your UV Index! It measures the strength of the sun’s ultraviolet rays based on the time, season, weather, and location. The higher the number, the greater the risk of skin damage.
Even on cloudy or low-index days, UV rays can still affect your skin. Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, seek shade, and limit sun exposure—especially during peak hours.
Check before you head outside! The UV Index is available on most weather websites, apps, and news reports. Use the number or color-coded rating to determine when sunscreen is needed and how much sun protection to use.
How do I choose which sunscreen to use?
SPF stands for "sun protection factor," which is a measure of how well a sunscreen can protect your skin from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation. SPF ratings indicate the level of protection against UVB radiation, which is responsible for sunburn and skin cancer. Here's what different SPF ratings mean:
SPF 15: Provides 93% protection against UVB radiation. It's a good choice for everyday activities, such as running errands or going to work.
SPF 30: Provides 97% protection against UVB radiation. It's a good choice for outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, or playing sports.
SPF 50: Provides 98% protection against UVB radiation. It's a good choice for people with fair skin or those who spend a lot of time outdoors.
SPF 100: Provides 99% protection against UVB radiation. While it offers the highest level of protection, it's important to note that no sunscreen can provide 100% protection.
SPF is only part of the picture! Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it generously, reapply often, and combine it with shade, hats, and protective clothing—especially during peak sun hours.
What Sunscreen is good for Children and infants?
Choose kid-friendly sunscreen! Look for broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 30 or higher that is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often gentler on sensitive skin while providing effective UVA and UVB protection.
Protect little ones from the sun! Apply sunscreen generously to exposed skin and reapply every two hours—or after swimming or sweating. Add hats, lightweight protective clothing, and shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Babies under six months need extra protection. Keep them in the shade and cover them with lightweight clothing and a hat. If sun exposure is unavoidable, apply a small amount of mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to uncovered areas like the face and hands.
Choose an Environmentally Safe Sunscreen
Now that you've taken care of yourself let's make sure you take care of the planet. Choosing an environmentally-friendly sunscreen can help protect the environment and prevent damage to coral reefs and other aquatic life. Here are some tips for choosing a sunscreen that is safe for the environment:
Look for mineral-based sunscreens: Sunscreens that use mineral-based filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are generally safer for the environment than chemical sunscreens. They are less likely to harm aquatic life and coral reefs, and they tend to be less toxic.
Avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate: These are two common chemical filters found in many sunscreens, but they have been shown to harm coral reefs and other aquatic life. Look for products that do not contain these ingredients.
Avoid Sunscreens with these chemicals: Retinyl palmitate is a form of Vitamin A that has been shown to increase the risk of skin cancer when applied to the skin and exposed to sunlight. Parabens are preservatives that have been linked to hormone disruption and skin allergies. Synthetic fragrances can be irritating to the skin, especially if you have sensitive skin. Nanoparticles are tiny particles that can penetrate the skin and potentially cause harm.
Choose reef-friendly sunscreens: Look for sunscreens that are labeled as "reef-friendly" or "ocean-safe". These products are formulated to be safe for marine life and the environment.
Use sunscreen only when necessary: While it is important to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays, it is also important to use sunscreen only when necessary. Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses, and try to stay in the shade during peak sun hours.
By choosing an environmentally-friendly sunscreen, you can protect your skin and the environment while looking marvelous!
How and when should I apply sunscreen?
Here are some tips for applying sunscreen effectively:
Choose a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. This will provide adequate protection against UVB rays, which are responsible for sunburns.
Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, and any other areas that will be exposed to the sun.
Apply sunscreen liberally. Use enough to cover all areas of exposed skin, and don't forget to reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you are swimming or sweating.
Use a water-resistant sunscreen if you will be swimming or participating in other activities that may cause you to sweat.
Don't forget to protect your lips with a lip balm that contains SPF.
Wear protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses, in addition to using sunscreen for added protection against the sun's harmful rays.
Remember, applying sunscreen is an important step in protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays and preventing skin damage, including sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer.
Let's Talk after Sun care.
After being out in the sun for a long time, it's important to take care of your skin to prevent further damage and help it recover. Here are some good methods of skin care after sun exposure:
Cool down: Take a cool shower or bath to help lower your body temperature and soothe your skin.
Moisturize: Apply aloe vera or a moisturizing lotion to your skin to help soothe any redness or dryness caused by the sun.
Drink water: Drinking water can help rehydrate your body and skin, which can become dehydrated after prolonged sun exposure.
Avoid further sun exposure: Stay out of the sun or wear protective clothing and sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to prevent further damage to your skin.
Take anti-inflammatory medication: If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, taking anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Apply a cold compress: You can also apply a cold, damp cloth or compress to any areas of your skin that feel sore or inflamed.
Get medical attention: If you have severe sunburn or blisters, or if you are experiencing symptoms such as fever or nausea, it's important to seek medical attention right away.
