With summer in full swing, it's the perfect time to talk about sun protection. Sunscreen is an absolute must-have for anyone who wants to keep their skin healthy and youthful. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hitting the beach, or just going about your daily routine, understanding sunscreen can make a huge difference.

What is sunscreen 

So, what exactly is sunscreen? In simple terms, it’s a product you apply to your skin to protect it from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. These come in creams, sticks, gels, and sprays, and are sometimes ingrained in your makeup or skincare products themselves. Sunscreen forms a barrier on your skin, helping to prevent sunburn, and premature aging, all while reducing the risk of skin cancer. 

In addition, many sunscreens come enriched with skin-loving ingredients, like Pomegranate and Chamomile extract present in Minori's Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30. These ingredients help boost collagen production and protect against skin inflammation.

How sunscreen works 

When it comes to sunscreen, there are two main types: chemical and mineral. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV radiation and turn it into heat, which your skin naturally releases. Mineral sunscreen, like Minori's Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 physically blocks and reflects UV rays using natural ingredients such as Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. Think of it as a shield keeping the nasty sun rays at bay.

Understanding SPF

Let’s break down SPF. It stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it measures how well a sunscreen can protect you from UVB rays, the main cause of sunburn and skin cancer. For instance, SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, and SPF 50 offers just a bit more protection by blocking an extra percent. 

Choosing the right SPF depends on your skin type, activity level, and sun exposure. For daily use, SPF 30 or SPF 35 is generally sufficient, but for extended outdoor activities or sensitive skin, opting for SPF 50 provides extra protection.

How often sunscreen should be reapplied 

Here’s the big question: How often should you reapply sunscreen? Ideally, every two hours—and more often if you’re swimming, sweating, or toweling off as these activities can dilute or remove sunscreen even if it’s water-resistant. When using water resistant sunscreen for water activities make sure to reapply every 40-80 minutes, depending on the products instructions.

How long sunscreen is going to be effective on your skin varies according to different formulations, generally sunscreens of all SPFs are formulated to be effective for up to 2 hours. It is recommended to reapply sunscreen more often if engaging in physical activities such as rubbing or wiping your face can wipe off the sunscreen leaving you unprotected. Prolonged sun exposure also requires frequent application as sunscreen ingredients can break down when exposed to sunlight. This photodegradation reduces their effectiveness over time.

If you work indoors near windows, you may still need to apply and reapply sunscreen every two hours. UV rays can penetrate through windows, and even fluorescent bulbs can emit UV radiation.

Having a visual reminder or checklist for reapplication times can be incredibly helpful, ensuring continuous protection throughout the day. Always keep a bottle of sunscreen nearby to stay shielded from harmful UV rays whenever needed.

Written by Zoya Virani
Photography by Jackie Ma