Sunscreen Explained: How to Choose, Use, and Protect Your Skin

When it comes to protecting your skin, few products are as important as sunscreen. It does far more than prevent a summer sunburn — it shields against long-term damage that can impact both your appearance and health. Making sunscreen part of your daily routine is one of the simplest but most effective ways to care for your skin.

Why You Need Sunscreen

The benefits of sunscreen go well beyond the surface:

• Slows aging: Regular use reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and sun spots caused by UV exposure.

• Prevents sunburn: Protects against the immediate pain and redness from too much sun.

• Lowers skin cancer risk: Shields your skin from harmful UV rays that can lead to serious conditions over time.

And remember — sunscreen isn’t just for your face. Your arms, legs, hands, and even ears need protection too.

Sun burnt and Skin cancer

How to Pick the Best Sunscreen for You

• By SPF:

  • SPF 15–30 is usually enough for short indoor exposure or quick errands.

  • SPF 30–50+ is better for outdoor activities or long hours in direct sunlight.

  • Higher SPF means stronger protection, but you still need to reapply throughout the day.

• By type:

  • Mineral (physical) sunscreen contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. It sits on top of the skin and reflects UV rays. This makes it ideal for sensitive skin, children, or anyone prone to irritation. The trade-off? It can leave a slight white cast, though newer formulas are improving this.

  • Chemical sunscreen works by absorbing into the skin and transforming UV rays into harmless heat. It feels lighter, blends easily, and is often more water- and sweat-resistant. However, it may cause irritation for very sensitive skin types.

    

• By protection:

  • UVA rays cause premature aging, fine lines, and dark spots.

  • UVB rays are responsible for sunburn.

  • Look for “broad spectrum” on the label to ensure your sunscreen covers both.

• Water-resistant formulas:

  • Sunscreens are labeled as water-resistant for either 40 or 80 minutes, depending on the formula.

  • No sunscreen is completely “waterproof,” so you’ll need to reapply after swimming or heavy sweating.

  

When to Use Sunscreen

• Every day: Even indoors, your skin is exposed to light from windows and blue light from computer screens, which contribute to skin damage.

• Final skincare step: Apply sunscreen as the last step of your skincare routine and before makeup.

• Touch-ups: Reapply every 2 hours, especially if you’re outside or working at a screen for long stretches. Spray and stick formulas make it easier to reapply without disturbing your makeup.

• Don’t rely on makeup SPF alone: While helpful, it isn’t strong enough for full protection.

• Expiration awareness: If you notice your sunscreen has expired, it’s often a sign you’re not applying it generously or frequently enough. Daily, proper use should mean you finish a bottle before the expiration date.

  

Professional Skin Care at ABC Beauty College

At ABC Beauty College, our Esthetician course trains students in all aspects of skincare — from understanding products like sunscreen to delivering customized treatments. For clients, our discounted student services make it easy to receive professional-level care and learn how to keep your skin healthy and protected.

We’re open for client services during the following hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM

• Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Call now to book (714) 530 - 2131