Top 10 Sunscreen Tips (from a nurse and med spa owner)

Essential knowledge from an expert injector and Registered Nurse

Summer is in the air! And with all that beautiful sun on the horizon, it’s time to educate and refresh your knowledge on sun protection 🕶️

Did you know that 80-90% of viable aging on the face is from the sun? Yikes! Getting into an SPF routine is so important, along with having the right knowledge and products.

☀️Here are my top 10 sunscreen tips, from an APRN (registered nurse), skincare expert, and expert injector!

Let me know what you learned or any questions you have in the comments 💬

Ready to get serious about your skin and sun protection? Book an in-person consultation with me, and we can work on your personalised skincare plan together!

Colorescience has some awesome new SPF makeup- shop through my retailer link here for special offers.

1. SPF 30 or Higher, Always

Look for broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. Consistency is key. SPF is your daily defense. Sun damage alone is responsible for 85% of aging.

2. Yes. Melanin-Rich Skin Needs Sunscreen Too

While darker skin tones have more natural protection against UVB (burning) rays, they're still vulnerable to UVA (aging) rays which cause aging, hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and skin cancer.

DID YOU KNOW that 1 in every 5 people get skin cancer, regardless of skin color? While many people of color have a misconception that they dont need to be wearing sunscreen, skin cancer is usually deadliest in POCs because its more difficult to see, making it even more important to be wearing SPF.

3. Reapply Throughout the Day. No Exceptions

Sunscreen wears off, especially with sweat, water, or rubbing your face. Keep a travel-size SPF in your bag or car for easy reapplication-yes, even over makeup (powder or spray SPFs can help here!).

Let’s be real, reapplication is hard one to remember. We’re all busy and on the run. The Board of Dermatology recommends reapplying every 2-4 hours. My rule of thumb for her clients is to get a re-application in one time a day. I recommend the Colorescience brush on sunscreen, it makes this quick and easy!

4. Don't Let Clouds Fool You

Up to 80% of UV rays still penetrate cloud cover. That "overcast day" can sneak up on you with sun damage. Sunscreen isn't just for beach days-it's an everyday essential.

5. Mineral VS. Chemical?

Mineral (physical) sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide sit on the skin's surface and are great for sensitive or acne-prone skin. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays but may irritate some skin types. The best one? Talk to your injector or skincare specialist!

6. Avoiding White Cast

Many folks, especially those with darker skin, avoid sunscreen to avoid white cast. Tinted mineral sunscreens blend better with melanin-rich skin. Brands are finally stepping up-look for shades that match your undertones for a smooth, invisible finish. (Psst- looking for great products we recommend? See our trusted retailers here)

7. Neck, Ears, Chest & Hands

These often-neglected spots are quick to show signs of aging and sun damage. They are also common skin cancer spots. Extend your skincare beyond your face-protect the whole canvas.

8. Makeup with SPF? Not Enough Alone

SPF in foundation or moisturiser is great, but not enough on its own. You'd need to cake on way more than you think to reach the labeled protection. Always layer dedicated sunscreen underneath or use a tinted sunscreen.

9. Expired Sunscreen = Weak Protection

Check those expiration dates! Old formulas can lose effectiveness and stability. When in doubt, toss it out. Better safe than sun-damaged.

10. Nighttime is Skin Recovery Time

Sunscreen does its job during the day-your job is to wash it off before bed. Cleanse thoroughly, moisturize, and use active ingredients like hyaluronic acid or retinol (if appropriate) to repair and replenish.

Did you find this post helpful? Let me know what you learned in the comments, send this post to someone who needs to ditch the tanning bed for the med spa, or book a consultation, I’d love to meet you!