It’s that time of year when almost everyone who writes about health writes about sunscreen. As we celebrate summer’s unofficial start, we are most likely to be doing it outside. By now, we all know how important it is to slather on sunscreen before heading outdoors, but did you know that it’s equally important to apply SPF even when you’re indoors? Or that most of us are not regularly applying enough sunscreen to slow skin aging or to prevent skin cancer?  

Not to worry, even if we don’t get smarter about sunscreen, it turns out the sunscreen is getting smarter. Here’s what you need to know, and the myths you need to forget, to help you stay safe in the sun this summer.  

What’s New in Sunscreen? 

Beyond UV—battling blue light and pollution. Modern sunscreen formulas no longer treat sunlight as a two-spectrum problem. Thanks to breakthroughs in iron-oxide “tinted” sunscreens and antioxidant boosters (think embedded vitamin C or niacinamide), your daily lotion now shields you from high-energy visible (HEV) light — those blue-violet wavelengths streaming off screens and skyscrapers that can trigger pigmentation and accelerate aging. At the same time, anti-pollution complexes (like encapsulated green-tea polyphenols) form a microscopic barrier against soot and smog, keeping your skin calmer in concrete jungles. 

Smarter, tougher filters. Mineral sunscreens have leveled up. Nano-zinc oxide and titanium dioxide pigments are now “micro-encapsulated” for a sheer, “no-white-cast” finish, which might just make us less reluctant to walk around slathered in the stuff. Also, new photostable chemical actives (such as bemotrizinol and ecamsule, if you’re wondering) give reliable broad-spectrum coverage without degrading in sunlight —  particularly helpful in sunscreen!  

Friendlier to reefs. Regulatory moves—especially in the EU and parts of the U.S. — have also pushed brands to ditch oxybenzone and octinoxate in favor of reef-safe alternatives, so you can surf in style without worrying about coral-bleaching headlines. 

Personalized protection and tech integration. Imagine a sunscreen that adapts to your skin’s needs in real time: early prototypes of pH-sensitive creams adjust SPF release as you sweat or swim, and wearable UV-sensor patches (syncing with your phone) ping you when it’s time to reapply. AI-driven skin-analysis apps help you choose formulas fine-tuned to your melanin level, activity, and even local air quality. In ’25, sun safety is becoming as personalized as your playlist. 

Not All Sunscreens Are Created Equal — Here’s How to Choose 

1. Read the Ingredients, Not Just the SPF

   Broad-spectrum star filters: Look for Tinosorb S/U (bemotrizinol), Mexoryl SX/XL (ecamsule), and Uvinul A+/T (diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate) alongside—or instead of—the old standbys (avobenzone, octocrylene). These newer actives give more stable, longer-lasting protection. 

   Physical blockers: Nano-encapsulated zinc oxide or titanium dioxide will say “sheer” or “transparent” on the label to avoid that ghostly cast.

2. Check for “Bonus” Protectors

   Antioxidant boosters: Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), niacinamide, green-tea polyphenols, or ferulic acid help neutralize free radicals from pollution and blue-light. If you see these in the top five ingredients, you’re onto something. 

   Anti-pollution complexes: Brands may advertise “urban shield” or “pollution barrier” form factors—usually a fancy way of saying encapsulated plant extracts that bind airborne particles.

3. Screen the Labels for Reef-Safe & Clean-Beauty Seals

   Reef-safe certification: A “no oxybenzone” or “Hawai‘i approved” sticker means they’ve dropped ingredients tied to coral bleaching. 

   EWG or PAO ratings: The Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep database grades sunscreens on health and environmental safety—you want something in the green or yellow zone (<2–3).

4. Use Tech to Your Advantage

   Sunscreen apps: Apps like UV Sense or L’Oréal’s My Skin Track UV pair with wearable sensors to tell you when you need to reapply—and even recommend compatible products. 

   Online filters: Retailers like Dermstore or Credo Beauty let you filter by “blue-light protection,” “reef-safe,” or specific filters.

5. Sample before You Commit

   Travel-size testers: Almost every brand offers mini tubes—grab one to test texture, finish, and reactivity with your skin (no irritation, no white cast, no pilling). 
   
   

The Fuss About Protection 

First of all, while the sun rejuvenates and fortifies us with vitamin D (in short supply for many of us), it can also sap our youthful good looks. The sun ages our skin faster than any other factor.  

Then there’s skin cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates about 100,000 new cases of melanoma will be diagnosed in 2025 and expects about 8,000 of those people to die of the disease. The good news is that skin cancer is highly preventable. Almost all melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, which can be blocked by wearing, and reapplying, sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. It’s the best reason of all to be careful about sun protection. 
  

Understanding UV Rays

UV rays are emitted by the sun and can cause damage to your skin. There are two primary forms of UV rays: UVB and UVA.    

UVB rays are responsible for the sunburn we can see and feel, while UVA rays penetrate deeper, contributing to premature aging. Both increase our risk for skin cancer. This is why it’s essential to look for sunscreen labeled as “broad-spectrum,” because these are specially formulated to protect you against both UVA and UVB rays.  

UVA rays, unlike UVB rays, can penetrate glass as well as skin. So, if you spend time sitting near a window or in a room with sunlight streaming in, you can easily be exposed to UVA rays, especially at certain times of the day. Because of this, dermatologists recommend that you wear sunscreen even if you spend most of your day inside. Also, it’s easy to discount sun exposure from running errands, taking a walk, or sitting outside on the deck, and all of this incidental sun exposure adds up and can cause both skin damage and skin cancer. Consider applying sunscreen to your face, neck, ears, and back of your hands every morning, so you’re covered no matter where you are during daylight hours.  

  
The Magic SPF Number  

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it indicates a sunscreen’s effectiveness against UVB rays, or those that cause sunburn. SPF doesn’t have anything to do with how long you can stay in the sun. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, regardless of its SPF, and immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying.  

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the magic SPF number is 30. Why? Because it’s clinically proven to block around 97% of UVB rays. While sunscreens with higher SPF do offer slightly more UVB protection, it’s important to note that no sunscreen can provide 100% protection.  

And here’s the catch: many of us fall short in applying the recommended amount of sunscreen initially and then often forget to reapply. This means the SPF gets diluted, so starting with a sunscreen with SPF of 30 is only adequate if you make sure to apply it generously and remember to reapply every 2 hours.  

And remember, sun protection extends beyond sunscreen alone. Your clothing and accessories can serve as an additional defense against harmful UV rays. Opt for clothing that covers exposed skin, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to shield your eyes and delicate facial skin. Together, these measures offer comprehensive protection against sunburn, premature aging, and the risk of skin cancer.  
 

Three Key Steps to Consistent Sun Protection     

1. Apply the appropriate amount of sunscreen to start. 
   
   

• Follow the “two-finger” rule for your face and neck. Dispense sunscreen along the length of your pointer and middle fingers, then apply this amount to your face, neck, and ears. There really is no harm in applying extra sunscreen, so if you are not sure that you are adequately protected, just apply some more. If you’re worried about looking greasy, look for oil-free formulas and those with a matte finish.  

• Apply at least a shot glass full of sunscreen to your body. Dermatologists say the right amount of sunscreen for someone in a swimsuit is one ounce, which is about the amount that fits in a shot glass. 

 

2. Reapply every couple of hours. 

The #1 thing to remember about sunscreen is this: It isn’t a one-and-done deal. The effectiveness diminishes over time, especially when exposed to water, sweat, or prolonged sun exposure. No sunscreen is waterproof or sweatproof, and while some sunscreens may be labeled as water-resistant, they still require reapplication after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying, otherwise you are not protected from sunburn and sun damage. Reapplication is necessary to maintain optimal protection from the sun. It is recommended that sunscreen be reapplied every two hours or immediately after swimming, sweating, or toweling off. Recent research shows that the active ingredients in sunscreen can degrade in the heat.  

3. Remember your commonly forgotten and neglected skin 

Two commonly forgotten areas of skin that burn frequently are the tops of your feet and the tops of your ears. And, if you don’t have much hair, or wear a hairstyle that exposes the scalp, like box braids or a sleek bun with a part, experts recommend applying sunscreen to your head as well. Many products exist for this purpose, including hair mist, oil, or powder with SPF, some of which come with a spray nozzle for easy application before styling. Other commonly missed areas include your lips and eyelids. The skin around the eyes is more fragile and thinner, making it more susceptible to fine lines and photoaging, so remembering to apply sunscreen is essential. According to experts, everyone needs lip balm with SPF, but you don’t need a special sunscreen for your eyelids. The problem with sunscreen on eyelids is that many sunscreens sting when we sweat and they get into our eyes. If you have that problem, PLEASE wear sunglasses at all times when you are outside. 

Spray Sunscreen or Lotion Sunscreen?  

Both spray and lotion sunscreens can be effective when used correctly, but there are some things to keep in mind:   

• Coverage: Spray sunscreens can be convenient for hard-to-reach areas or for quick reapplication. However, it can be challenging to ensure complete coverage, especially if it’s windy or if you’re not applying enough. With lotion sunscreen, you have more control over the amount applied and can ensure better coverage, especially on uneven or sensitive areas.  

• Application: With spray sunscreen, it’s essential to hold the can close to your skin and apply it generously, making multiple passes to ensure even coverage. Be careful not to inhale the spray or get it in your eyes. With lotion sunscreen, you can apply it directly to the skin and massage it thoroughly, which can help ensure better absorption.  

• Effectiveness: Studies suggest that people tend to underapply spray sunscreen, leading to lower levels of protection compared to lotion sunscreen. Additionally, spray sunscreen can be more easily rubbed or washed off, reducing its effectiveness over time.  

  
Myths about Sunscreen – Busted!    

We’d like to clear up some misconceptions and give you reliable information you can trust so you can make smart choices about protecting your skin from the sun.   

Myth 1: ”I don’t need sunscreen on a cloudy day.”  

Accurate Information: Clouds do not block UV rays completely. UV rays can penetrate through clouds, leading to sunburn and skin damage. It is important to wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days, to protect your skin.  Also, despite the fact that sunscreen isn’t well-promoted during the winter months, it absolutely should be used year-round, regardless of the season or location.  
  
Myth 2: ”I don’t need sunscreen if I have darker skin.”   

Accurate Information: While darker skin tones have more natural protection against UV rays compared to lighter skin tones, everyone, regardless of their skin tone, is susceptible to sun damage. Sunscreen is still essential for people with darker skin to protect against skin cancer, premature aging, and other harmful effects of UV exposure.    
  
Myth 3: “My makeup has SPF, so I don’t need to apply sunscreen.”  

 Accurate Information:  If a makeup product claims a SPF value (and has a drug fact label) then it is a sunscreen and has gone through the testing and regulatory guidelines to categorize it as such. However, according to experts, makeup products are often applied too thinly to provide real protection from the SPF in the product. There are not too many women who say they apply two fingers worth of foundation or tinted moisturizer. Makeup with SPF over regular sunscreen is a great idea! 
  

The Bottom Line on Sunscreen:    

Sunshine and fresh air are two of the best free medicines. You can get all the benefits without risking your health or youthful good looks by upping your sun-protection game:  

• Choose a sunscreen with SPF of at least 30 that has a consistency you will reapply often.  

• Apply at least one shot glass full of sunscreen (one ounce) to your body and use the two-finger rule for your face, neck, and ears: dispense sunscreen along the length of your pointer and middle fingers, then apply this amount to the areas above your shoulders.  

• Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after swimming, sweating, or toweling off.  

• If you’re out between 10a and 2p, wear a hat or take some shade breaks. And don’t forget your sunglasses.
   

We wish you many (protected) sunny days this season!