As summer approaches, we welcome longer days, sunny skies, and more time spent outdoors. Whether it’s a beach day, patio brunch, or afternoon walk, the season encourages us to wear lighter clothing and show more skin. But with the sunshine comes an often-overlooked risk: invisible UV rays.

That’s where SPF becomes a summer skincare essential.

Daily SPF: Not Just for Beach Days

Many people only think of sunscreen when planning a day in the sun. But did you know UV exposure happens even during everyday moments—like walking to your car or sitting near a window? Protecting exposed skin (especially your face, neck, and hands) should be a daily habit, not just a vacation add-on.

So how do you choose the right SPF product for summer? Let’s break it down.

Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreen: What’s the Difference?

Not all sunscreens are created equal. Most drugstore shelves are stocked with chemical sunscreens, but physical (or mineral) sunscreens offer a gentler and often more effective alternative—especially if you care about your skin’s health and the environment.

Here’s how they compare:

 Chemical Sunscreens:

  • How they work: Absorb UV rays into your skin, converting them into heat.
  • Potential downsides: That heat can lead to irritation, redness, and inflammation—especially for sensitive skin.
  • Reapplication issues: For full effectiveness, chemical SPF needs to be washed off before reapplying. Leftover residue can block new application from working properly.

 Physical (Mineral) Sunscreens:

  • How they work: Act like a mirror, reflecting UV rays before they can penetrate your skin.
  • Benefits: Non-irritating, soothing, and ideal for sensitive or reactive skin types.
  • Easy to reapply: You can layer physical SPF throughout the day without needing to wash your face.

Broad-Spectrum Protection: UVA vs. UVB

Not all sun rays are created equal — and not all sunscreens protect against both kinds. That’s why it’s important to look for broad-spectrum SPF, which blocks both UVA and UVB rays.

  • UVB rays are responsible for sunburns. They’re strongest in summer and during peak daylight hours.
  • UVA rays are present year-round and can penetrate clouds and windows. They’re the main cause of premature aging, damaging collagen and elastin in the skin. They also contribute to skin cancer.

A broad-spectrum SPF ensures your skin is protected from both, whether you're outdoors or sitting near a window all day.

The Takeaway: Don’t Skip SPF This Summer

The bottom line? Wearing SPF daily is the foundation of smart skincare — and the best defense against aging and skin damage. Choose a broad-spectrum, mineral sunscreen that suits your skin type, and make it the last step in your morning routine (yes, even on cloudy days!).

Need help finding your perfect SPF?  At Beauty Sense, we carry a full range of Jane Iredale’s mineral sunscreens, designed to protect, nourish, and enhance your skin with clean, high-performance ingredients.