Sunshine feels amazing, but too much of it can leave a lasting mark on your skin. From fine lines and sun spots to increased risk of skin cancer, unprotected sun exposure is one of the leading causes of premature aging.

Here’s what you need to know about protecting your skin year-round and what to do if you’re already seeing the signs of sun damage.

The Effects of the Sun on Your Skin

While a bit of vitamin D is good for you, prolonged exposure to UV rays can harm the skin in more ways than one:

• Premature Aging: Think fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.
• Hyperpigmentation: Sun spots, freckles, and melasma can darken with repeated exposure.
• Texture Changes: UV rays can lead to rough, uneven skin.
• Skin Cancer Risk: The most serious concern, and one that makes annual skin checks a must.
  

Even one blistering sunburn during childhood can double your risk of developing melanoma later in life. So, while a golden glow may look nice now, the long-term effects are not worth the risk.

Did you know? UVA rays can penetrate clouds and glass, meaning your skin is still at risk while driving or sitting by a window. That’s why daily SPF use is critical.

Understanding UVA vs. UVB Rays

• UVA rays (“A” for aging) penetrate deep into the skin and are responsible for premature aging and wrinkles.
• UVB rays (“B” for burning) affect the skin’s outer layer and are the main cause of sunburns.
• Both types can contribute to skin cancer and must be blocked by a broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Why SPF Is Non-Negotiable

We’ll say it louder for the people in the back: SPF is the best anti-aging product you will ever use.

Here’s why:

• Prevents sunburn and reduces the risk of skin cancer
• Slows photoaging, helping you maintain smoother, firmer skin
• Protects against UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays
  

But not all sunscreens are created equal. Look for broad-spectrum protection, ideally SPF 30 or higher, and wear it every single day — even when it’s cloudy, snowy, or you’re indoors near windows.

Don’t forget often-missed areas like the ears, neck, lips, scalp (if exposed), and tops of the hands and feet.

Also, reapply every 2 hours when outdoors or after swimming and sweating.

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin Type

• Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Look for non-comedogenic, oil-free formulas with ingredients like zinc oxide or niacinamide.
• Dry/Sensitive Skin: Choose a moisturizing SPF with calming ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or aloe.
• Post-Procedure Skin: Mineral sunscreens are often gentler and safer after treatments like peels or microneedling.
• Makeup Wearers: Tinted sunscreens or sunscreens with a satin finish layer well under cosmetics.

Still not sure what’s right for you? We’re happy to help during your next visit.

Medical-Grade Sunscreens: What Makes Them Different?

If you’re serious about skin health, medical-grade sunscreens like Alumier MD take protection to the next level:

• Formulated for all skin types (including acne-prone and sensitive)
• Packed with antioxidants to fight free radical damage
• Elegant textures you’ll actually enjoy wearing
  

Bonus: They layer beautifully under makeup and won’t clog pores. Our team can help you find the right sunscreen for your lifestyle, whether you prefer a sheer mineral finish, a tinted glow, or water-resistant options.

Treatments to Reverse Sun Damage

Already noticing signs of sun damage? Don’t worry, we have options that can dramatically improve your skin’s tone, texture, and clarity.

1. IPL (Intense Pulsed Light): Targets pigmentation and redness caused by sun damage. Expect brown spots to darken temporarily, then flake off over 1–2 weeks for clearer skin.

2. Chemical Peels: Gently exfoliate the outer layer of skin, improving texture, tone, and radiance. They’re perfect for addressing uneven pigmentation and dullness.

3. Microneedling: Boosts collagen production while allowing skin-repairing serums (like VAMP™) to penetrate deeply. It helps with fine lines, texture, and post-summer recovery.

Not sure which is best for you? Book a consultation with our team and we’ll create a personalized treatment plan.

Our Top Product Picks

Here are the sun-safe must-haves we’re loving this month:

• Alumier MD Sheer Hydration SPF 40 – A lightweight, moisturizing sunscreen that comes in tinted and untinted formulas.
• PCA Skin Body Therapy – Perfect for repairing dry, sun-exposed skin on the body.

Protect, Prevent, Repair

Your skin deserves daily care, and that starts with protecting it from the sun. Whether you’re looking to prevent future damage or reverse what’s already visible, we’re here to help every step of the way.

Stop by the clinic or book a free skin consult — we’ll help you build your perfect summer skin routine.