☀️ Ah, Summer

Summer’s here—and with it comes poolside lounging, cookouts, and overpriced outdoor concerts (looking at you, Ticketmaster). But it also brings the kind of sunburn that overstays its welcome well into fall. 

Before you head out into the sun, let’s break down everything you need to know about sunscreen: how much SPF you actually need, how it works, and a few of our favorite clean options to keep your skin protected all season long.

🧴 Why Sunscreen Matters

Every time you're out in direct sunlight, you're exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays. These rays don’t just cause sunburn—they’re the leading cause of skin cancer and can fast-track signs of aging like wrinkles and sunspots. Sunscreen helps block these harmful rays, acting as a literal protective barrier between you and long-term damage.

In short? A little SPF goes a long way toward keeping your skin healthy.

⏳ What Does SPF Actually Mean?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, which measures how long it takes for UV rays to burn your skin when you’re wearing sunscreen compared to when you’re not.

• SPF 20 = 20x longer protection (if applied correctly)
• Higher SPF = more protection, but reapplication is still key

Sweating, swimming, and time can all wear it off, so experts recommend reapplying sunscreen every two hours (or more often if you’re doing cannonballs at the pool).

🔢 How Much SPF Do You Need?

• SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays—great for daily use
• SPF 50+ is better for prolonged exposure or sensitive skin
• Anything higher than 50 offers slightly more coverage but isn’t bulletproof

Hot take: In summer, I’m personally reaching for SPF 80 and living my best vampire life. 😎

🌤 Can You Still Tan With SPF 50?

Yes, you can still tan—SPF 50 doesn't block all UV rays. But just so we’re clear: tanning is technically skin damage. So if you’re still out here trying to bronze, maybe go back and reread this article… please. 🙂

🕓 When Is It Safest to Be in the Sun?

The UV index is typically highest between 10 AM and 4 PM, so your safest bet is to limit direct sun exposure during that time. That doesn’t mean you have to become a full-time hermit—but maybe seek shade when you can. Your future skin will thank you.

💡If you don’t listen to our advice and your skin’s feeling sensitive, sun-stressed, or just a little cranky after being outside, give your skin a little extra love with Gladskin. It’s a soothing, microbiome-friendly cream that helps reduce redness, breakouts, and irritation—perfect for pairing with your SPF.

😬 Does SPF Clog Pores?

Sometimes. Sunscreens that contain oil or heavy moisturizers can clog pores and lead to breakouts—especially higher-SPF formulas, which tend to be thicker.

To help your skin stay clear:

• Look for non-comedogenic, oil-free formulas
• Wash your face after sweating
• Try a mineral-based sunscreen (we’ve got recs coming your way)

💡Pro tip: Want your glow to come from hydration, not oil? Try supporting your skin from the inside out with HUM’s Daily Cleanse or SEED’s Daily Synbiotic—both designed to help with clearer, healthier-looking skin.

🔍 Best Clean, Mineral Sunscreens for Summer

When picking a sunscreen, keep your eyes peeled for:

✅ Mineral-based formulas (like zinc oxide)
✅ Oil-free and non-comedogenic
✅ SPF 30 or higher for solid protection

Here are some of our favorite clean sunscreens—good for your skin and your summer plans:

🔵 Blue Lizard Mineral Sunscreen
A longtime favorite, Blue Lizard is a clean, mineral-based sunscreen that’s gentle on skin and strong on protection. Offers SPF up to 50. No weird chemicals. No excuses.

💎 ATTITUDE Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide
Great for daily use with clean, minimalist ingredients. SPF 30 max—perfect for everyday errands but maybe not your beach volleyball tourney.

🌞 CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen
Oil-free, hydrating, and non-comedogenic. This one won’t clog your pores—and SPF 50 keeps you covered even on the sunniest days.

🤍 Proactiv Clear Skin SPF 30 Face Sunscreen  Made for acne-prone skin, this mineral sunscreen gives you protection without the breakouts. SPF 30 and oil-free, so your face stays calm, cool, and collected.

🏖 Final Thoughts

You don’t have to hide indoors all summer (unless you want to), but you do have to protect your skin. Stick with SPF 30 or higher, reapply regularly, and go for clean, mineral sunscreens that won’t clog your pores. Bonus points if you actually enjoy putting them on.

Now get out there, find some shade, and don’t forget your sunscreen. Your skin will thank you.