Dear Skin Divas!
And in case you are in the USA, just like me, you know we have been cheated of a good summer. It is overcast, 72 degrees, and there is no visible sunshine. But here is why: your skin still needs sunscreen even in this weather. I’ve been deep diving into how sensitive skin reacts to UV light, and it’s fascinating—talking sunscreen and sensitive skin? That’s today’s vibe.
Yes, UV rays don’t just cause sunburns—they worsen skin conditions like rosacea, eczema, acne, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, and lupus. Even soft sunlight sneaking through your window may be plotting against your glow-up. For example, rosacea? Studies show that UV radiation is one of its primary flare-up triggers (1). Eczema? The sun can dry it out and leave it a flaky, itchy mess. Acne? UV dries your skin → triggers excess oil → clogged pores → chaos.
Here’s the plot twist: sunscreen saves the day. Mineral sunscreens made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are derm-approved and sensitive-skin safe. They reflect UV rays without wrecking your barrier, and most are fragrance-free (2). Chemical sunscreens? Totally valid—but filters like oxybenzone can be spicy for reactive skin. Always patch test, besties (2).
Let’s talk longevity: sunscreen isn’t just for avoiding flare-ups. It helps stop wrinkles, pigmentation, and skin cancer. Yes, real data shows that regular sunscreen use significantly reduces melanoma and other UV-related cancers (3). SPF is the cheapest anti-aging product you’ll ever own.
Sunscreen isn’t optional. It’s skincare. It’s healthcare. It’s bottled self-love. Slather it on, reapply, and protect that main character energy.
See you on the SPF side, diva-wannabes 💋
References (APA Style):
(1). McCoy, W. H., IV. (2020). ‘Shedding light’ on how ultraviolet radiation triggers rosacea. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 140(3), 521–523. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jid.2019.10.030
(2).Gabros, S., Nessel, T. A., & Zito, P. M. (2020). Sunscreens and photoprotection. StatPearls Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7759112/
(3). Green, A. C., Williams, G. M., Logan, V., & Strutton, G. M. (2011). Reduced melanoma after regular sunscreen use: Randomized trial follow-up. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 29(3), 257–263. https://doi.org/10.1200/JCO.2010.28.7078