It’s a cloudy summer day and you aren’t planning on leaving your cool, air-conditioned interior. Seems like it’s safe to skip the sunscreen, right? Wrong – ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can filter through clouds and glass windows, causing sun damage that can lead to skin cancer.
Sun protection isn’t just for sunny days or beach days – it’s for every day. Here’s why sunscreen may be the most important step in your skin care routine.
Why SPF is essential year-round.
The sun emits two types of ultraviolet rays that reach the Earth’s surface and pose a threat to our skin:
- UVA = Aging: Characterized by longer wavelengths which penetrate deeply into the skin, these rays cause signs of aging including dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. UVA rays are a threat all year long, even in winter or on cloudy days.
- UVB = Burning: UVB rays have a shorter wavelength and target the top layer of skin, causing sunburn and skin cancer. These rays are most dangerous in the summer but can pose risks throughout the year.
Sun damage can appear invisible - until it’s not. Damage accumulates over time, showing up years later as dark spots, lines, wrinkles, and unfortunately, cancer. Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, but it is largely preventable with consistent use of SPF.
For maximum protection, look for a broad-spectrum sunblock, which shields against both UVA and UVB rays.
The Long-Term Benefits of Daily SPF Use
When used daily, broad-spectrum sunscreen can help prevent sunburn, skin cancer, and signs of premature aging, including fine lines, dark spots and loss of elasticity in the skin. A broad-spectrum SPF can also help maintain an event skin tone and support a healthy skin barrier.
Make sun protection a proactive, protective wellness habit - like brushing your teeth. Applied daily, it can make a big difference.
Mineral vs. Chemical: What You Should Know
You may have seen sunscreens referred to as either mineral (physical) or chemical. What’s the difference? The terms refer to the active ingredient(s) that help shield your skin from UV rays.
- Mineral sunscreens may include zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which reflect and scatter the sun’s rays before they can penetrate the skin.
- Chemical sunscreens may include ingredients such as avobenzone or octisalate. These absorb rays before they cause damage to the skin.
Both types of sunscreens are safe and effective, though mineral SPF may be less likely to cause skin irritation, particularly for people with sensitive skin.
Meet Daily Defense Mineral SPF 50 Body Sunscreen
Introducing new Daily Defense Mineral SPF 50 Body Sunscreen, a lightweight, easy to apply formula that offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection. Unlike some mineral sunscreens that leave a pasty – or chalky – texture, the non-greasy cream glides on smooth and dries to a sheer matte finish. Plus, it’s fragrance-free and un-tinted, ideal for those with sensitive skin.
Active Ingredients:
- Non-nano zinc oxide deflects UV rays & is gentle on marine ecosystems
- Shea butter moisturizes and softens
- Natural botanical extracts soothe and protect skin from free radical damage
Daily Defense Mineral SPF 50 Body Sunscreen is water resistant up to 80 minutes, so skin will be protected even if swimming or sweating. Make sure to reapply after towel-drying, or at least every two hours.
Complete your sun care routine
SPF is just the first step in caring for sun-exposed skin. Round out your summer sun care routine with these skin savers:
Daily Defense Mineral SPF 50 Facial Sunscreen draws on the same lightweight, zinc oxide-based formula as our body SPF, boosted by a hint of tint. Enriched with shea butter, green tea, olive leaf, and rosemary extracts, it shields facial skin from free radicals while nourishing and moisturizing.
Vitamin C Peptide Renewal helps restore skin’s radiance and provides protection from environmental pollutants. Our unique, stable form of Vitamin C boosts luminosity and smooths uneven skin texture, while advanced peptides hydrate and nourish.
After Sun Body Serum is a luxe, fast-absorbing serum that calms and replenishes skin after a day out in the elements. Hyaluronic acid helps skin retain moisture, while aloe, organic coconut oil and organic hemp seed oil hydrate and comfort.
Cucumber & Ginseng Facial Mist hydrates and revitalizes, drawing on an alcohol-free spritz infused with refreshing cucumber, ginseng and algae extracts. Pop one in your travel bag or wherever you need a pick-me-up.
Your Skin Will Thank You
Using a daily broad-spectrum SPF is essential for healthy skin, helping protect from sunburn, visible signs of premature aging, and skin cancer. Lightweight, mineral sunblocks like Daily Defense Mineral SPF 50 Body Sunscreen make it easy to stay protected from the sun’s UV rays.
Our top tip: look for a formula that blends easily and is comfortable enough to wear every day - not just on beach days.
Ready to make SPF part of your daily ritual? Learn more about Daily Defense Mineral SPF 50 Body Sunscreen and start protecting your skin today.
