Summer Skin Tip: The One Mistake We See Most Often
- Dr. Johnson
- Jul 14
- 2 min read
Summer is all about sunshine, vacations, and spending time outdoors—but one of the biggest skincare mistakes people make is not wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day.
What Does SPF Actually Mean?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It measures how well a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays, the rays responsible for:
Sunburns
Damage to your skin's outer layers
Cellular DNA damage
The majority of skin cancers
Here's how common SPF levels compare:
SPF 15 blocks about 93–95% of UVB rays.
SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays.
SPF 50 blocks about 98% of UVB rays.
While higher SPF offers more protection, no sunscreen blocks 100% of UV rays.
SPF vs. Broad-Spectrum: What's the Difference?
This is where many people get confused.
SPF only measures protection against UVB rays. To protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays, choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and are a leading cause of:
Premature aging
Fine lines and wrinkles
Dark spots
Loss of skin elasticity
Broad-spectrum sunscreen helps defend your skin against both types of harmful UV rays.
How Often Should You Reapply?
Even the best sunscreen doesn't last all day.
For the best protection, reapply your broad-spectrum sunscreen every 2 hours while outdoors, and more often if you're swimming or sweating.
How Atlanta's Summer Heat Affects Your Skin
Atlanta's heat and humidity can cause your skin to produce excess oil (sebum), which may lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Pairing daily sunscreen with a consistent skincare routine helps keep your skin healthy, balanced, and protected all season long.
Why Does Your Skin Change After Vacation?
Ever notice your skin looks different after a trip? Changes in climate, humidity, sleep, water, and your daily routine can temporarily disrupt your skin barrier, leaving your skin feeling dry, oily, irritated, or prone to breakouts.
A professional facial can help restore balance and get your skin back on track.
Healthy Skin Starts with Daily Protection
The simplest way to protect your skin this summer is to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day, rain or shine. Your future skin will thank you with fewer sunburns, less premature aging, and a healthier, more radiant complexion.
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