The Truth About SPF: What Every Woman Should Know About Sunscreen, Summer Skin & Healthy Aging
- Tiffany Sizse
- Jun 17
- 6 min read
As soon as summer arrives, so does the confusion.
One person says sunscreen is toxic.
Another says the sun causes cancer.
Someone else tells us we need more sunlight for Vitamin D.
So what are we supposed to believe?
As a Holistic Esthetician, I believe the answer lies somewhere in the middle.
The sun is not the enemy.
Sunscreen is not the enemy.
But understanding how to safely enjoy one while choosing the right version of the other can make a tremendous difference in the health and appearance of your skin.
Why This Conversation Matters
This year alone, three of my clients underwent procedures to remove skin cancer.
As estheticians, we’re trained to observe the skin closely and encourage clients to seek medical evaluation when something appears unusual. Seeing this happen to people I know personally was a powerful reminder that sun protection isn’t simply about preventing wrinkles.
It’s about protecting your health.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and while not every case can be prevented, excessive UV exposure remains one of the biggest risk factors.
Daily sun protection matters.
Regular skin checks matter.
And paying attention to changes in your skin matters.
The Sun Is Not The Enemy
Let’s start here.
We need sunlight.
Sun exposure plays an important role in:
Vitamin D production
Healthy circadian rhythms
Mood regulation
Immune function
Hormone balance
The goal isn’t to avoid the sun completely.
The goal is to enjoy it responsibly.
Think morning walks, beach days, gardening, and outdoor activities—while also protecting your skin from excessive UV exposure that can accumulate over years and decades.
How The Sun Ages The Skin
One of the biggest contributors to premature aging isn’t getting older.
It’s photoaging.
Photoaging occurs when ultraviolet radiation damages the collagen and elastin fibers that keep our skin firm, smooth, and resilient.
Over time this can lead to:
Fine lines and wrinkles
Sagging skin
Brown spots and pigmentation
Rough texture
Broken capillaries
Loss of elasticity
Uneven skin tone
Many people spend hundreds of dollars on anti-aging products while skipping one of the most important preventative tools available: sunscreen.
Why Has Sunscreen Become So Controversial?
Over the last decade, concerns have been raised about certain chemical sunscreen ingredients and their potential impact on both human health and the environment.
Research has specifically examined ingredients such as oxybenzone and octinoxate because of their potential endocrine-disrupting effects and their ability to be absorbed into the bloodstream.
As consumers have become more ingredient-conscious, many have started looking for cleaner alternatives.
This doesn’t mean sunscreen is bad.
It simply means people are paying closer attention to what they’re putting on their skin.
For many of my clients, choosing a mineral sunscreen feels like a good middle ground—offering protection while avoiding ingredients they’d rather not use.
Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreen
Mineral Sunscreen
Mineral sunscreens use ingredients such as:
Zinc Oxide
Titanium Dioxide
These ingredients sit on the skin and help protect against UV radiation.
Many people with sensitive, acne-prone, or reactive skin find mineral formulas easier to tolerate.
Chemical Sunscreen
Chemical sunscreens use ingredients that absorb UV radiation before it damages the skin.
These formulas often feel lightweight and cosmetically elegant, but some consumers choose to avoid certain chemical filters due to ongoing concerns about absorption and hormone disruption.
Ultimately, the best sunscreen is the one you’ll wear consistently.
Understanding SPF Numbers
One of the biggest misconceptions is that higher SPF means dramatically more protection.
Here’s what the numbers actually mean:
SPF 15 blocks approximately 93% of UVB rays.
SPF 30 blocks approximately 97%.
SPF 50 blocks approximately 98%.
SPF 100 blocks approximately 99%.
As you can see, the protection increases only slightly as the number rises.
For most people, SPF 30–50 is more than sufficient when applied properly.
What Does Broad Spectrum Mean?
When shopping for sunscreen, look for the words: Broad Spectrum
This means the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
UVB rays are responsible for sunburn.
UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute significantly to premature aging and hyperpigmentation.
You need protection from both.
Is SPF Makeup Enough?
One of the most common things I hear is: “My foundation has SPF 30 in it, so I’m covered.”
Unfortunately, that’s usually not the case.
The SPF listed on a foundation is based on applying a much larger amount of product than most people actually use.
To achieve the SPF protection listed on the bottle, you would need to apply a surprisingly thick layer of foundation—far more than most of us wear on a daily basis.
Think about it this way:
If your foundation contains SPF 30, but you’re only applying a light layer, you may be receiving only a fraction of that protection.
The same goes for:
Tinted moisturizers with SPF
BB creams with SPF
CC creams with SPF
Powder SPF products
While these products can provide additional protection, they should be viewed as a bonus layer—not your primary source of sun protection.
The best approach is:
Step 1: Apply a dedicated broad-spectrum SPF as the final step of your skincare routine.
Step 2: Apply makeup on top.
This allows you to receive the full protection your sunscreen was designed to provide while still enjoying the cosmetic benefits of your makeup.
Think of SPF in makeup as a helpful backup—not your entire sun protection strategy.
How Much Sunscreen Should You Apply?
Most people simply don’t use enough.
For the face and neck, a good rule is approximately two finger lengths of product.
Apply every morning as the final step in your skincare routine.
If you’re spending time outdoors, reapply every two hours and again after swimming or excessive sweating.
One application in the morning is not enough for an entire beach day.
“But I Work Indoors All Day”
Another common misconception is that sunscreen is only necessary when you’re outside.
In reality, UVA rays can penetrate through windows and continue contributing to collagen breakdown, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging.
If you drive regularly, sit near large windows, or spend time outdoors throughout the day, daily SPF remains one of the simplest ways to help protect your skin.
Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV radiation can still reach the skin.
That’s why consistent daily use matters far more than only applying sunscreen on beach days.
Face SPF vs Body SPF
Can you use body sunscreen on your face?
Technically, yes.
But that doesn’t always mean you should.
Body sunscreens are often formulated differently and can feel heavier on the skin.
For some people, this can contribute to:
Clogged pores
Breakouts
Congestion
Irritation
Facial sunscreens are typically designed to be lighter, more breathable, and compatible with skincare products and makeup.
Can Sunscreen Cause Breakouts?
This is one of the most common summer skincare complaints I hear.
The answer is sometimes.
Not because sunscreen itself is harmful, but because sunscreen mixed with sweat, oil, makeup, and environmental debris can become trapped in the pores.
During summer, your skin is dealing with:
Increased perspiration
More oil production
More time outdoors
More product on the skin
This is why proper cleansing becomes essential.
Why Double Cleansing Is A Summer Must
If you’re wearing sunscreen daily, double cleansing can be a game changer.
Step One:
Use an oil cleanser to break down sunscreen, makeup, excess oil, and debris.
Step Two:
Follow with a gentle cleanser to remove any remaining residue.
This simple habit can dramatically reduce congestion while helping keep the skin barrier healthy and balanced.
One of my favorite summer cleansing systems is the Earth Harbor Coastal Cleanse Duo.
Summer Skin Needs Support Too
Many people assume summer skin is healthy because it often looks dewy and glowing.
In reality, summer can place significant stress on the skin.
Between UV exposure, heat, sweat, salt water, chlorine, air conditioning, and daily sunscreen use, the skin is constantly working to maintain balance.
This often shows up as:
Congestion and clogged pores
Dehydration beneath the surface
Increased sensitivity
More breakouts
Uneven pigmentation
Dullness despite excess oil
This is where professional skincare treatments can be incredibly beneficial.
A holistic facial isn’t simply about relaxation—it’s about supporting the skin’s natural functions through deep cleansing, hydration, circulation, lymphatic support, and skin barrier health.
Regular treatments can help keep the skin balanced and functioning optimally throughout the summer months while addressing concerns before they become bigger issues.
My Favorite Clean SPF Options
Earth Harbor Eclipse Sheer Mineral Sunscreen
A lightweight mineral sunscreen featuring non-nano zinc oxide that layers beautifully under skincare and makeup.
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen
An excellent mineral sunscreen option for sensitive skin.
Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50
A great body SPF that absorbs beautifully without feeling heavy.
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46
One of the most recommended facial sunscreens for acne-prone and sensitive skin.
A Simple Summer Skincare Routine
Morning
✓ Gentle Cleanser
✓ Antioxidant Serum (Vitamin C)
✓ Moisturizer
✓ SPF
Evening
✓ Oil Cleanse
✓ Gentle Cleanse
✓ Treatment Serum
✓ Moisturizer
Simple.
Consistent.
Effective.
Not Sure What Your Skin Needs?
One of the biggest mistakes I see is people buying products based on trends instead of their skin type.
If you’re curious which Earth Harbor products may be right for you, their Skin Quiz is a great place to start.
Final Thoughts
The conversation around sunscreen has become incredibly polarized.
The truth is that both sunlight and sun protection have an important place in our lives.
Enjoy the sunshine.
Protect your skin.
Choose products that align with your values.
Pay attention to changes in your skin.
And remember, healthy skin isn’t built by a single product.
It’s built through small, consistent habits practiced over time.
With Care,
Tiffany Holistic Esthetician / Reiki Master
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