Skin Tips/Your Ultimate Guide to Smart Sun Protection

The shelf fills up quietly with good intentions, jars and bottles used just enough to hope they might work, then set aside when the dryness returns, the tightness lingers, and the promise fades—until care begins to feel less like ritual and more like disappointment. We invite you to explore the Westpoint difference and experience skincare designed to hold its lasting results over time.

Healthy, youthful skin includes daily sun protection. Follow these steps to preserve your glow and prevent UV damage:

1. Wear Sunscreen Daily 🔆

UVA rays (the "aging rays") penetrate through clouds and glass, accelerating fine lines, sagging, and uneven tone. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day: indoors or out.

☑️ Tip: Apply sunscreen as the final step in your morning routine, after serums and moisturizers.

☑️ Tip: SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It measures how well a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays; this is the type responsible for sunburn. For example, SPF 30 means it would take 30 times longer for your skin to become red/sunburned than if you were wearing no protection at all, assuming the product is applied exactly as directed.

2. Benefits of a Tinted, Mineral-Based SPF 30 + 🔆

Opt for a tinted, mineral sunscreen with SPF 30+. These protect against:

✅ UVA rays – Penetrate deeply, weakening the skin's immune system and aging it

✅ UVB rays – Cause sunburn and DNA damage

✅ Visible light – Contributes to hyperpigmentation

Need more information or recommendations?

☑️ Consult your primary care physician or dermatologist 

☑️ Check out Safe the Reef's Guide to sunscreens

3. Sunscreen Is Essential for All Skin Tones 🔆

UV exposure causes damage across all skin tones, leading to hyperpigmentation, premature aging, and a higher risk of skin cancer. SPF is necessary for everyone over 6 months of age.

Infant Sun Safety

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, babies under 6 months should be kept out of direct sunlight, as their delicate skin is especially vulnerable. Instead of sunscreen, rely on shade, protective clothing, and wide-brimmed hats to keep them safe.

4. How to Apply Sunscreen the Right Way: Because it Really Matters 🔆

Several factors influence how well your SPF works. Here's what you need to know to get the most out of your sunscreen:

Always apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every 80 minutes, especially if you're sweating, swimming, or spending extended time outdoors.

How Much to Use

• Face: Use about ¼ teaspoon daily. Using less can significantly reduce your SPF protection.
• Body: A full application requires 1.5 oz; this is about the size of a shot glass. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sam Ellis, most people only use 25–75% of the recommended amount, leaving skin underprotected and vulnerable to damage.

Geography, Altitude and UV Intensity

UV radiation is more intense near the equator and at higher altitudes; this means sun exposure can be significant whether you're lounging at the beach or skiing in the mountains. No matter the season or setting, daily sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin year-round.

Weather Conditions

Yes, sunny days require vigilance, but don’t let cloudy skies fool you. Up to 80% of UV rays can still penetrate clouds, meaning you need SPF even on overcast days. Check your daily UV exposure rating and plan ahead, especially when outdoors.

5. Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreens 🔆

• Physical (Mineral) Sunscreens: Contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which sit on the skin’s surface and reflect UV rays. According to the United States Federal Drug Administration (FDA) zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are inorganic and are generally recognized as safe and effective (GRASE).
• Chemical Sunscreens: These formulas use organic UV filters that absorb UV radiation. According to recent studies, some chemicals like oxybenzone can harm marine ecosystems and accumulate in aquatic life. As a result, places like Hawaii and Palau have banned certain ingredients to protect coral reefs. Another filter, octinoxate, is still under review for its safety in human use.

6. Safer Sunscreen Alternatives 🔆

Reef-Safe Protection

• For ocean-friendly sun care, choose mineral sunscreens made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients offer broad-spectrum UV defense, are gentle on sensitive skin, and are far less likely to disrupt marine ecosystems.
• According to Save the Reef, the term "reef-safe" is not regulated, so always read labels carefully. Avoid sunscreens containing harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, homosalate, PABA, parabens, triclosan, microplastics, or nano-sized particles. To protect your skin and the sea, opt for trusted mineral formulas and consult reputable guides like Save the Reef's recommended sunscreens.
  

7. Don’t Skip Sunscreen Indoors 🔆

UVA rays and blue light from screens still damage skin, even indoors. Protect your skin by applying SPF daily, especially if you're prone to hyperpigmentation.

8. Wear UV-Protective Clothing 🔆

Boost Your Sun Defense

Enhance protection with (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) UPF 50+ clothing that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Look for UV-protective swimwear, rash guards, wide-brimmed hats, and long-sleeved activewear. The Canadian Dermatology Association recommends avoiding peak sun hours: especially between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m., when Ultraviolet light intensity is at its highest.

9. The Bottom Line 🔆

Daily sunscreen is non-negotiable for defending against premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and long-term skin damage. Indoors or out, make SPF a daily habit. For optimal protection, pair it with sun-smart clothing and consciously chosen, skin and reef-safe ingredients.

RADIANCE REDEFINED

References

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Chatzigianni, M., Pavlou, P., Siamidi, A., Vlachou, M., Varvaresou, A., & Papageorgiou, S. (2022). Environmental impacts due to the use of sunscreen products: a mini-review. Ecotoxicology, 31(9), 1331–1345. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10646-022-02592-w

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