Did you know that up to 90% of visible skin aging is due to the effects of the sun?1 If that statistic is of interest to you, the “protect today to reap the benefits tomorrow” approach to sun care may be for you!
Because society says so
It is possible that our definition of beauty in America contributes to skin cancer being the most common type of cancer in the United States1. While playing golf in college, a competitor and I bonded on the fact that we both used our umbrellas to block the sun on unruly hot days. She was from Japan and explained how in her country, if there is a Japanese person with porcelain colored skin (think the color of our stomachs in the winter), and a Japanese person with tan skin, it is the porcelain colored skin that is considered beautiful and signifies wealth.
While there are likely many layers to this example, I want to highlight how their definition of what is beautiful is quite the opposite of America’s overall. For instance, I pay for a spray tan once in a while because the association of tan skin and beauty is so ingrained in our culture that I am conditioned to believe I look better with a tan. Beauty is truly a social construct, practically made up! Tan, spray tan, or all natural, there is no judgement, I support you embracing whatever is best or desired by you, my friends.
What happens within our body to create a suntan or sunburn?
When our skin cells are threatened by the sun rays, they go into DNA damage repair mode. They try protect themselves by sending darker pigment, called melanin, to the surface for the skin to use as an umbrella 4. Therefore, the longer we stay in the sun, the more darker pigment rises to the surface leading to a darker tan.
With a sun burn, the outer layer of the skin becomes damaged therefore blood flows to it, making it warm to the touch. Then, white blood cells, that protect you from infection and disease, attack and remove the damaged skin cells, which causes the sunburned skin to itch and peel 2. When this happens our skin is telling us its upper layers are damaged, which can lead to cancerous growths with continuous exposure, which discovered early is highly treatable.
Okay, so… that science is a little frightening!
But, just like donuts, everything in moderation! The “sunshine vitamin”, Vitamin D, for instance is a benefit of spending time in the sun. It helps our bones absorb calcium and our immune system functioning on par. Dr. Bowe recommends that people with lighter skin can be in the sun safely to soak up vitamin D without significant protection for 5-10 minutes (when in high UV index points in the day), and up to 30 minutes for people with darker skin colors3. The UV Index showing the daily strength of the rays and risk for overexposure to the sun can be found on most weather apps, with a 1 meaning “Low” risk, and a 10+ representing “Very High” risk.
What are examples of sunscreen products are deemed safe for our skin and aren’t greasy or leave a white cast?
While sunscreen shopping, look for the words “broad spectrum”, SPF 30 or more, and avoid the ingredient oxybenzone. This is the ingredient that has given sunscreens a bad rap with the concern of this chemical entering the bloodstream, and the potential for damaging the coral reefs. I am not partnered with any products or clothing below, just a fan!
Chemical Sunscreen
This type uses ingredients that absorb UV rays. The rays are transformed into heat and released from the skin.
- Beauty lovers are a huge fan of SUPERGOOP! Glow Screen that can be used as a primer for makeup or alone that also has antioxidants and blue light protection.
- La Roche Posay’s Anthelios Melt In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60 is great for dry skin and formulated without oxybenzone. It can be found at most CVS, Walgreens, Target and Walmarts. With a large tube, I use it on my body also for outdoor activities like golfing.
Mineral Sunscreen
Mineral sunscreens and contain the ingredients zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. They are unlikely to burn or sting when applied, making them the preferred option for sensitive skin. Early versions of mineral sunscreens would leave a while cast on the skin or be difficult to rub in, however they have came a long way.
- Colorscience has many options with the one linked being one of my favorites and comes in two colors. It is extremely light weight and leaves you with a healthy dewy glow.
- Tied for my favorite is the MDSolarSciences Mineral Tinted Cream that I use in place of a foundation in the summer. It differs from the Colorscience product in that it has a matte finish and velvety texture. If you are concerned about chemicals, mineral sunscreens may be your best bet as this type is certified FDA safe.
What can I get in the habit of doing if I am going outside for just a few hours?
Grab a hat! Find one that is comfortable and that you feel stylish in, increasing your likelihood of wearing it.
Melin stylish HYDRO caps made for adventure, partnered with Phil Mickelson
Hemlock Hat Co. premium straw hats and visors that are fun and functional
Grace Eleyae for silk lined hats for the ladies
I love the sun and am looking to spend the whole day outside, what can help me prevent a sun burn?
Having an item or two of light weight clothing that has UPF 50+ protection is a foolproof way, aka my favorite way, to skip the hassle of reapplying sunscreen and prevent one of those “can’t fall asleep because my sunburn hurts so bad” scenarios I’ve learned to regret.
- Mott 50 ladies swimwear with sun protection and style!
- Title Nine many everyday stylish and comfy UPF 50 clothing options
- Vitamin A for cute cover ups and high quality sustainable swim wear
Thank you for taking the time to read! Please leave your thoughts on this topic or your favorite products for keeping healthy skin in the sun!
With love,
Sydney B.
Additional Resources
Skin Cancer Facts & Statistics by the Skin Cancer Foundation (2021)
The Risks of Tanning by the Food and Drug Administration (2019)
Dr. Whitney Bowe’s website and socials for all things safe products and up to date skin care
The Protective Role of Melanin Against UV Damage in Human Skin (Brenner & Hearing, 2009)