☀️ Sunscreen 101: What You Need to Know This Summer

It’s common knowledge that sunscreen should be part of everyone’s daily routine—women, men, and children alike. But with so many types and formulas on the market, how do you know which one is right for you?

Let’s break it down so you can make the best choice for your skin and lifestyle this summer.

🧴 Understanding SPF: What Do the Numbers Mean?

The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) rays that can damage your skin, leading to sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Sunscreen bottles are labeled with SPF (Sun Protection Factor), which tells you how much protection the product offers against UVB rays—the kind that cause sunburn.

Here’s a quick SPF breakdown:

SPF	% of UVB Rays Blocked	Protection Time
SPF 15	~93%	15x your natural burn time
SPF 30	~97%	30x your natural burn time
SPF 50	~98%	50x your natural burn time

Which SPF Should You Use?

• SPF 15: Great for short, everyday exposure (e.g., walking to your car or quick errands).

• SPF 30: The recommended minimum for extended outdoor activity.

• SPF 50: Ideal for fair skin, beach days, high altitudes, or intense sun exposure.

  
  

🧪 Types of Sunscreen: Mineral vs. Chemical

There are two main types of sunscreen, and each protects your skin differently.

🌿 Mineral (Physical) Sunscreens

• How they work: Sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays.

• Active ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide

Pros:

• Broad-spectrum protection

• Less likely to irritate sensitive skin

• Start working immediately

• Often reef-safe

Great for kids, people with sensitive skin, and those looking for a more natural product.

🔬 Chemical Sunscreens

• How they work: Absorb UV rays and convert them into heat.

• Common ingredients: Avobenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, oxybenzone, octinoxate

Pros:

• Lightweight and transparent

• Easier to apply without a white cast

• Often found in sprays and gels

These are popular for daily wear and active lifestyles due to their smooth, invisible finish.

💄 SPF in Makeup: Is It Enough?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, makeup that contains SPF is helpful—but it shouldn’t be your only protection.

Here's why:

• SPF in makeup is often too low: Most formulas don’t meet the recommended SPF 30 minimum.

• Coverage is inconsistent: Makeup is applied unevenly, especially around the face's edges.

• Reapplication is tough: Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours, which is hard to do with makeup alone.

💡 Think of SPF makeup as a bonus layer—not your main defense.

✅ Final Thoughts

Choosing the right sunscreen depends on your skin type, how long you’ll be outside, and personal preferences. Whether you prefer a mineral or chemical formula, the most important factor is consistency.

Sunscreen best practices:

• Apply it every day—rain or shine.

• Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors.

• Don’t forget spots like your ears, neck, hands, and scalp.

• Seek shade during peak sun hours when possible.

At Malama Health, we believe in the power of caring—for ourselves and those we love. Choosing and using sunscreen daily is a simple but meaningful way to mālama your skin, your health, and your family’s well-being—because true care means protecting what matters most.