Look—we love a sunny day as much as anyone. Warm weather, longer evenings, and a good patio hang just feel right. But with all that sunshine comes something we don’t love: UV damage.
And trust us, it adds up fast.
June is UV Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to talk about protecting your skin (and your health)—without hiding indoors all summer.
What is UV Radiation?
UV stands for ultraviolet, a type of radiation (yes, that radiation) emitted by the sun. There are two main types:
- UVA rays = age your skin (think wrinkles, spots, and sagging)
- UVB rays = burn your skin (think sunburns and peeling)
Both damage your skin and contribute to skin cancer, even when it’s cloudy or cool outside. Yes, even on a grocery store run.
Why Sun Protection Matters
Here’s the deal: UV radiation is the #1 preventable cause of skin cancer.
It can lead to:
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Melanoma
And the scary part? These cancers often show up in sun-exposed areas: face, scalp, chest, shoulders, and back. Whether you’re spending the day at the beach or walking your dog, UV rays are always there, and the damage adds up.
Beyond cancer, protecting your skin from UV damage also helps:
- Delay visible signs of aging (like fine lines and dark spots)
- Prevent painful sunburns
- Maintain smooth, healthy skin texture
- Minimize flare-ups of conditions like melasma or rosacea
5 Easy Ways to Stay Sun-Safe
Sun protection doesn’t have to be complicated. It just needs to be consistent:
- Apply a shot-glass amount of broad-spectrum SPF 50+ every morning (yes, even indoors).
- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours if you’re outside or sweating.
- Wear sun-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses, especially from 10 AM–4 PM.
- Find shade when possible and avoid tanning beds altogether.
- Schedule yearly skin checks to catch changes early.
Already Seeing Damage?
No judgment—most of us didn’t grow up slathering on SPF before soccer practice. If you’re seeing spots, rough patches, or uneven tone, your skin might be asking for help.
We offer effective treatment options:
- BroadBand Light (BBL): Targets sun spots, redness, and uneven tone
- Cryotherapy: Treats rough, scaly patches (like actinic keratoses) with a quick freeze
Sunscreen Myth-Busting: What You Really Need to Know
Is sunscreen toxic?
Nope. FDA-approved sunscreen ingredients are extensively tested and proven safe. The real danger is not wearing sunscreen.
Can sunscreen chemicals get into my bloodstream?
Some ingredients are absorbed, but absorption doesn’t equal harm. There’s no evidence they cause negative health effects.
Are mineral sunscreens safer than chemical sunscreens?
Mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) are great for sensitive skin and sit on top of the skin. Both types are safe, so it comes down to preference.
Does sunscreen block vitamin D?
Not significantly. You still get enough UV exposure for vitamin D production. If you’re concerned, you can get vitamin D through food or supplements.
Are there natural oils I can use instead of sunscreen?
No natural oil provides adequate UV protection. Coconut oil, for example, has an SPF of about 4. Stick with dermatologist-approved sunscreen.
If I eat healthy and stay hydrated, do I still need sunscreen?
Yes. Diet and hydration support skin health, but they don’t block UV rays.
Is sunscreen bad for the environment?
Some chemical ingredients (like oxybenzone) may harm marine life. Look for “reef-safe” sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide if you’re swimming in oceans.
The Bottom Line
You don’t need to avoid the sun—just be smarter about it. Wear SPF. Know your skin. Get it checked.
If you’re not sure where to start, our providers are here to help with personalized recommendations and treatment options. Early detection saves lives.
Let’s keep your skin healthy, protected, and glowing—for many summers to come.
