When you think of sunscreen, you might picture summer days, the beach, and trying to avoid getting sunburned. But sunscreen is much more than just a summer essential – it’s a crucial part of protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, no matter the season. Whether it’s a bright summer afternoon or a cloudy winter morning, sun protection should be part of your daily skincare routine.
At Kristina Marie Beauty, we often emphasize the importance of sunscreen, especially after treatments that enhance and rejuvenate your skin. Treatments like microneedling, hydrafacials, and chemical peels leave you feeling glowing and refreshed, but they also make you more sensitive to the sun’s rays. Let’s explore why sunscreen is so important all year round and how you can choose the best one for your skin type to keep your skin safe and healthy!
Why Sunscreen is Crucial in Every Season
While many people associate sunscreen with protecting against sunburns during the hot summer months, UV rays can damage your skin no matter the time of year. Even on cool, overcast days, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate your skin. There are two main types of UV rays that we need to protect ourselves from:
UVA Rays: These rays penetrate the skin more deeply and are the leading cause of premature aging, wrinkles, and fine lines. They are present all year round and can even pass through windows.
UVB Rays: These rays cause sunburn and play a key role in the development of skin cancer. UVB rays are stronger in the summer but are still present in the winter, especially at high altitudes or on reflective surfaces.
Daily exposure to UV rays without protection can result in long-term skin damage. This is why incorporating sunscreen into your everyday skincare routine is so important, regardless of the weather. Not only does this help prevent sunburn, but it also reduces your risk of skin cancer, minimizes signs of aging, and protects your skin from discoloration, dark spots, and other sun-induced damage.
Sunscreen After Beauty Treatments: Protect Your Glow
After investing in skincare treatments, it’s essential to maintain the health and appearance of your skin. Treatments such as microneedling, hydrafacials, and microblading can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight in the days and weeks following your session. This is because these treatments often involve exfoliating or removing the top layer of skin, revealing fresh, more delicate skin underneath.
For example, after microneedling, which stimulates collagen production and creates tiny micro-injuries to promote skin repair, your skin is more vulnerable to environmental factors like sun exposure. Without proper protection, you risk developing dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and even reversing the benefits of the treatment.
Similarly, after a hydrafacial, which deeply cleanses and exfoliates your skin, it’s important to shield your skin from the sun to prevent irritation or damage to your fresh, radiant complexion.
The surrounding skin can become more sensitive even for services focused around the eye area, like lash extensions or microblading. Using sunscreen ensures that your skin remains smooth and youthful while allowing the results of these treatments to last longer.
We recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect your skin following any of our services.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin Type
Not all sunscreens are created equal. The right one for you depends on your skin type, personal preferences, and any treatments you’ve recently had. Here’s a breakdown of the best sunscreen options based on different skin types and concerns.
Oily or Acne-Prone Skin
For oily or acne-prone skin, you’ll want a sunscreen that controls shine without clogging your pores. Look for a lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic formula that won’t leave your skin feeling greasy. Gel-based or water-based sunscreens are great options because they absorb quickly and don’t contribute to excess oil. Mineral sunscreens, which contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are also excellent for oily skin types because they sit on the skin's surface and act as a physical barrier to UV rays.
Dry or Sensitive Skin
If you have dry or sensitive skin, finding a sunscreen that doesn’t irritate or further dry out your skin is key. Opt for a moisturizing sunscreen with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are also more gentle on sensitive skin, as they are less likely to irritate than chemical sunscreens. Avoid formulas with fragrances or alcohol, as these can dry out the skin and trigger sensitivity.
Normal or Combination Skin
Finding a well-balanced sunscreen that provides sufficient protection without feeling too heavy is important for those with normal or combination skin. A lightweight lotion or fluid sunscreen with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher will work well for daily use. If your skin is prone to becoming oily in certain areas, consider a mattifying sunscreen that helps control excess shine throughout the day.
Post-Treatment Skin
After undergoing treatments like microneedling or a facial, it’s essential to be extra cautious about sun exposure. Choose a sunscreen that is gentle, fragrance-free, and provides broad-spectrum protection. Sunscreens designed for sensitive skin or post-procedure care often include soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile to calm any redness or irritation while protecting your skin from UV damage.
Tips for Incorporating Sunscreen into Your Routine
To get the most out of your sunscreen and keep your skin protected year-round, follow these simple tips:
Apply Enough: Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen. You should use about a nickel-sized amount for your face and a shot glass worth for your body. Make sure to cover areas that are often forgotten, like your ears, neck, and the back of your hands.
Reapply Often: Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating, swimming, or spending extended time outdoors. Make it a habit to keep sunscreen in your bag or car for easy reapplication.
Use SPF 30 or Higher: A broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 protects against UVA and UVB rays. Remember that SPF 50 offers only a slight increase in protection compared to SPF 30, so focus on reapplication rather than choosing the highest SPF possible.
Don’t Skip Cloudy Days: Up to 80% of UV rays can still reach your skin on cloudy days, so be sure to wear sunscreen even when the sun isn’t shining.
Conclusion
Sunscreen is the unsung hero of skincare, offering year-round protection against the harmful effects of UV rays. Whether you’re lounging on the beach in summer or taking a walk in the crisp autumn air, your skin is constantly exposed to damaging sun rays. By making sunscreen a daily part of your routine, you protect your skin from premature aging, sunburn, and skin cancer and preserve the results of the professional treatments you receive.
Your skin deserves the best care possible. Protect it by wearing sunscreen every day, all year round, and after any beauty treatments. At Kristina Marie Beauty, we’re committed to helping you maintain beautiful, healthy skin. Whether you’ve received a microneedling treatment or a facial, applying sunscreen is the best way to keep your skin glowing and protected.
If you’re ready to book your next service or need personalized skincare advice, contact us today. Together, we can help you achieve and maintain the radiant skin you deserve.
