An SPF Reset Guide for Summer Sun Protection

May 2026

Do’s and Don’ts for Healthier Skin All Summer Long

After months of covering up against the cold, the feeling of the sun on your skin can feel freeing. But if you forget proper sun protection, an early-season sunburn won’t feel good at all.

Even if you’ve been applying sunscreen throughout the winter (and we hope you have!) increased exposure in the summer months requires more attention to not only how frequently you’re applying the proper SPF, but what kind you’re using.

To be skin smart all summer long, use this SPF reset guide to ensure you’re choosing the right formula and applying it correctly. Good sun protection habits can be hard to restart after a long winter, but with the right information, you can roll it right into your existing skin care routine.

DO: Choose Broad-Spectrum Sun Protection

Not all sunscreens protect your skin in the same way, but products labeled “broad-spectrum” are designed to guard against:

UVA Rays: These harmful rays penetrate deep into the skin and can advance signs of premature aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots.

UVB Rays: These rays cause sunburns and are a major factor in the development of skin cancers.

UVA rays are present year-round, and even on cloudy days can still harm the skin. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before outdoor activities is a smart way to protect the skin and keep signs of aging at bay.

DON’T: Assume Last Year’s Sunscreen is Still Effective

Did you know sunscreens have expiration dates? The first thing you should do as the summer season starts is take a look at your sunscreen collection and toss any bottles and tubes that have passed their expiration date.

Similarly, sunscreens that have spent time in your car or garage likely have been exposed to drastic temperature swings, which can cause degradation and clumping of active ingredients that lead to uneven spread and inadequate protection. We recommend keeping sunscreens at room temperature during the off-season, and replacing any that:

Smell “off”

Have changed in texture

Were not kept at room temperature over the winter, even if the expiration date hasn’t passed

DO: Understand the Differences Between Chemical and Mineral Sunscreens

There are two main types of sunscreen, chemical and mineral, and the type you choose to use depends on your skin type and other factors.

What is Mineral Sunscreen?

Has zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as active ingredients. These compounds sit on top of the skin and act as a physical barrier, reflecting harmful UV rays away from the skin.

Offers immediate protection upon application, making it a great choice for people who need to apply and go.

Often recommended for sensitive or acne-prone skin types because it is less likely to cause irritation, clog pores, and trigger breakouts or allergic reactions.

Offered in matte or oil-free formulations that help absorb excess shine.

Provides immediate protection and is often water-resistant, making it a good choice for athletes or kids who move in and out of the sun and water frequently.

What is Chemical Sunscreen?

Contains active ingredients such as avobenzone, oxybenzone, and octinoxate, which are each able to absorb or block UVA and UVB rays by converting them into heat and releasing that heat from the skin.

Typically needs 15 to 30 minutes to become effective after application.

Are usually lighter-weight formulas than mineral sunscreens and are easier to rub in, often making them preferable for everyday wear, especially under makeup.

Often comes in moisturizing formulas with added humectants or emollients that hydrate while protecting.

Blends more seamlessly into skin than mineral sunscreens, making chemical sunscreens an ideal choice for darker skin tones or individuals looking for a more cosmetically-pleasing option.

Outside of these indications, the best type of sunscreen is one you’ll use consistently.

DON’T: Apply Too Little (Or Too Infrequently)

Common misconceptions about sunscreen are how much to apply and how long the protection lasts. Often, individuals apply too thin a layer of sunscreen, or perhaps skip certain areas of the body, or only apply sunscreen at the start of an outdoor activity and never reapply.

Let’s clear up exactly how much, how often, and where sunscreen should be applied.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, you should use two milligrams of sunscreen per square centimeter of the skin. Here’s an easy guide:

Face, neck, and ears: A strip of sunscreen that covers your middle and pointer fingers

Face alone: A nickel- or quarter-sized dollop

Exposed areas of the body: The equivalent of a shot glass (two tablespoons)

If you’re using a spray sunscreen, apply enough that the skin has a sheen once it’s fully rubbed in.

Naturally, these amounts vary based on the individual, but you should feel confident that your skin is covered and protected.

And don’t forget easy-to-miss areas of the body, like the ears, neck, chest, hands, lips, scalp, knees, skin around the underarms, and feet. UPF-protective hats and SPF lip balms are great options for added protection.

To remain effective, you need to reapply your sunscreen every two hours, or right after swimming, toweling off, or heavy perspiration. Even sport sunscreens need to be reapplied after a sweaty workout.

Sunscreen wears off during activity, breaks down in sunlight, and can be wiped away, and the longer your skin is left unprotected, the more vulnerable you are to sunburn and sun damage.

DO: Layer Your Sunscreen Properly Under Makeup

Don’t skip sunscreen because you’re wearing makeup. The two can go hand-in-hand. Here’s the best order to layer your sunscreen properly under makeup:

Facial cleanser

Moisturizer

Sunscreen

Makeup

Let the sunscreen absorb into the skin for 1-2 minutes before applying your makeup, and keep an SPF setting spray, powder, or tinted sunscreen on-hand for touchups throughout the day.

DON’T: Skip SPF on Cloudy Days

Cloudy days feel pretty “low risk” for sun exposure, but up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds, meaning your skin is not safe from the sun even though you’re not in direct sunlight.

UVA rays can also pass through windows – so if you’re sitting inside near a window or driving, the sun’s rays can do damage on both sunny and cloudy days. Daily sunscreen is a must, including throughout winter.

DO: Consider Your Skin Type When Choosing Your Sunscreen

Similar to choosing mineral or chemical formulas, you should consider your skin type when choosing any kind of sunscreen, as different ingredients and formulas work better for different needs:

Oily or acne-prone skin: Look for sunscreens labeled oil-free or non-comedogenic

Dry skin: Choose sunscreens that contain added moisturizers for hydration

Sensitive skin: Opt for mineral-based sunscreens with minimal ingredients

Optima’s Top Sunscreen Product Recommendations

If you’re wondering what type of sunscreen is best for you, consult your dermatologist before investing in a new product. Our team has contributed some product recommendations based on common indications:

Lightweight daily SPF moisturizers for easy morning routines

Mineral sunscreens for sensitive or more reactive skin

Water-resistant formulas for outdoor activities

Tinted sunscreens for added coverage and convenience

Here are some of the products we love:

Neutrogena Ultra-Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50

EltaMD UV AOX Mist Broad-Spectrum SPF 40

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60

Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Lotion Sunscreen With SPF 60

ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless (Tinted)

Actinica (Untinted) Mineral Sunscreens SPF 50

Sunscreen isn’t just for beach days. While it can be easy to forget to apply sun protection before walking the dog, going for a drive, or grabbing an outdoor table at the local cafe, it is important and can make a major difference for your long-term skin health.

Keep sunscreen in your bag or car for easy access on busy days when you might not have time to apply at home. For added backup, keep SPF clothing like shirts and hats on hand when you don’t have sunscreen at the ready.

By integrating sunscreen into your skincare routine, you’ll reduce your risk of sun damage while keeping your skin looking its best.

Want help or advice for your summer skincare plan? Optima Dermatology’s board-certified dermatologists are here to help. Request an appointment to speak with one of our expert providers about the best approach to healthy, protected skin.

FAQs: SPF and Sun Protection

What SPF level should I use every day?

Dermatologists recommend using a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher for daily protection, even if you’re mostly indoors.

Is mineral sunscreen better than chemical sunscreen?

Not necessarily—both are effective. Mineral sunscreen is often preferred for sensitive skin, while chemical sunscreen may feel lighter and blend more easily.

How often should I reapply sunscreen?

Every two hours, and immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.

Can I skip sunscreen if my makeup has SPF?

Makeup with SPF helps, but it’s usually not enough on its own. Apply a dedicated sunscreen underneath for full protection.

Does sunscreen really help prevent aging?

Yes—daily SPF use is one of the most effective ways to prevent premature aging caused by UV exposure, including wrinkles and dark spots.