Why Sunscreen is Important + Tips for For Maximum Results + How to Treat a Sunburn
SUN, SUNBURNS, SUN-DAMAGE, SUNSCREEN- THERE’S ONLY ONE OF THESE THAT WE NEED OFTEN.
Your skin is the barrier you’re born with. It does a great job of protecting you from microbes and the elements, as well as helping to regulate your temperature, and makes it possible for you to feel… plus it keeps your insides, well, inside! But who and what protects your skin? You - with the help of sunscreen!
Sun exposure sends your skin messages: “You’re getting hot”, “You’re outside”, “You’re being exposed to harmful ultraviolet rays and accumulating skin damage…” In response to these messages, you feel the warmth and maybe start to sweat, your skin begins to get red and inflamed, and over time the exposure leads to a burn, then sun damage in the form of hyperpigmentation and pre-mature aging, or even worse - a diagnosis of skin cancer down the road. Now that doesn’t sound like a nice walk in the park. (WebMD)
Let’s shed some light on the subject of sun and UV exposure:
WHEN IT COMES TO SKIN CANCER, A MAJOR RISK FACTOR IS PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO ULTRAVIOLET (UV) RADIATION. [SKINCANCER.ORG]
In a nutshell: UV Rays are natural wavelengths emitted by the sun. Some are associated with aging (UVA) and some burning (UVB). Both are harmful to the skin! The rays are able to penetrate the skin that can lead to changes or mutations that lead to skin cancer.
You don't want to risk this- no matter how good you look with a tan. It's just best to avoid too much sun exposure.
THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A SAFE OR HEALTHY TAN. [SKINCANCER.ORG]
On the bright side: You can still enjoy time in the great outdoors! The key is to wear eye protection, sun-safe clothing, regular application of sunscreen and pick a spot in the shade whenever possible! Check out the official infographic on the “5 W’s” of Sunscreen from the Skin Cancer Foundation:
Top Tips to Protect Yourself
Wearing sunscreen daily is the first step in protecting yourself; but that's easier said than done. Here are a few of my top tips to ensure you can easily add sun protection to your daily routine.
Avoid Pore-Clogging Ingredients
Make sure your sunscreen does not include pore-clogging ingredients using my pore-clogging ingredient checker. Especially for those who are prone to body acne, like bacne!
Find the Right Sunscreen for You
Don't like the feeling of sunscreen? Don't throw in the [beach] towel, yet! Keep looking for a formula you like; maybe you just need to try a different formula! Have you tried TiZO's matte sunscreen, yet? Comes in a tinted version, too. And for my dry-skin friends, this moisturizing formula is best.
Master the Application Process
Feel like your sunscreen doesn't blend well into your face, or do you find it starts to "pill"? Try applying with your fingertips and "press" or tap it on, instead of rubbing. Also, allow the products you apply before your sunscreen to soak in for a minute or two before grabbing the SPF.
Opt for Sun-Protective Clothing
Tired of reapplying sunscreen so much while at the beach or pool? Try sun-protective clothing and swimwear, like a sleeved bathing suit. They’re stylish, and you won’t get those awkward shoulder tan lines, either! Just don't skip the reapplication of your SPF to exposed areas such as your face, ears, and hands. Read more about sun-protective clothing on skincancer.org.
Wear a Hat When Exposed to the Sun
No space to pack a hat for your Summer vacation? Sun hats range in size from a slight shade to as wide as Saturn's rings, haha... Thankfully I have a portable shade solution for you! Check out this foldable sun hat that can go with you anywhere in your purse or beach bag.
Don't Rely on SPF in Makeup Alone
Makeup that contains SPF is helpful, but often not enough. Never skip your SPF cream before your foundation. Also, take an SPF brush-on powder or SPF setting spray with you to set your makeup and reapply sunscreen throughout your day, too!
Don't get Sunburned Before a Facial
We simply cannot exfoliate over sunburns. Avoid too much sun so we can continue helping you get closer to your skin goals - not further away from them (which is what a sunburn will do).
Enjoy the sunny seasons while staying committed to daily sun protection—your skin will thank you. But, if you or your child does end up with a sunburn, knowing how to respond can make all the difference in healing and comfort.
Sunburn Treatment Guide: For Parents and Kids
Sunburn Relief for Adults
1. Cool It Quickly
Gently lower your skin temperature with a short dip in cool water, a quick shower, or cold compresses. Avoid ice directly on the skin, and skip harsh soaps that may further irritate.
2. Moisturize While Skin Is Damp
Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer right after drying off. Avoid petroleum-based products—they can trap heat and delay healing.
3. Calm the Inflammation
Take an over-the-counter NSAID like ibuprofen (if safe), apply 1% hydrocortisone cream, or soothe with aloe vera. Stick to loose, breathable clothing to reduce further irritation.
Reminder: Every sunburn causes long-term skin damage. “Learn from the burn” and protect your skin every day—rain or shine.
Sunburn Care for Children
Young skin is especially sensitive to sun damage, so prevention is key.
Babies under 6 months: Keep completely out of direct sunlight.
6 months and older: Use child-safe sunscreen, protective clothing, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
If your child does get sunburned:
Cool the skin with a tepid bath
Call your doctor immediately if your baby is under 1
For children over 1, seek medical advice if there’s pain, blistering, fever, or lethargy
Keep them hydrated with water or diluted juice
Use a light, fragrance-free lotion—dab gently, don’t rub
Avoid alcohol-based or medicated creams unless directed by a doctor
Keep out of the sun until fully healed
Final Tip: Prevention Over Treatment
Sun damage is cumulative, but it's also preventable. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily, reapply often, and encourage sun-safe habits for the whole family.
Your skin is worth protecting—every single day.
