When you think about your daily skincare routine, sunscreen might feel like an optional step before a beach day or outdoor event. But what if we told you that skipping daily sunscreen could be sabotaging all your other skin care efforts?

Daily SPF is one of the most powerful tools you have for maintaining healthy, beautiful skin and preventing premature aging. Let's dive into why sunscreen is a non-negotiable.

WHAT SUNSCREEN ACTUALLY DOES (AND DOESN'T DO)

The sun emits two types of harmful rays: UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays cause sunburn and play a major role in developing skin cancer. These rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and vary by season and location.

The effects of UVA rays are more subtle; they penetrate deeper into your skin and are present year-round, even on cloudy days. UVA rays slowly break down collagen and elastin, causing fine lines and dark spots to appear.

To protect your skin against both types of rays, it is important to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 daily. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, while broad-spectrum indicates protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

THE REAL-WORLD EFFECTS OF SKIPPING SUNSCREEN

Maybe you're thinking, "I don't burn easily, so I'm fine." Unfortunately, the damage from UV exposure goes far beyond sunburn. Here's what daily unprotected sun exposure can do to your skin:

• Accelerated signs of aging happen faster than you might expect. UV rays break down collagen very quickly, leading to fine lines, wrinkles and loss of skin elasticity, but you might not see that at first. Instead, you may see what you think is a “healthy glow” from sun exposure when it’s actually your skin's inflammatory response to damage.
• Increased risk of skin cancer remains the most serious concern. According to extensive research, daily UV exposure (even in small amounts) accumulates over time and increases your risk of developing skin cancer later in life.
• Worsening of existing skin conditions affects many people. If you're dealing with melasma, rosacea or hyperpigmentation, UV exposure can make these conditions significantly worse and harder to manage. This is especially true for pregnant women, since melasma is commonly triggered by hormonal changes and UV exposure.

WHY DAILY USE MATTERS MORE THAN OCCASIONAL USE

Cumulative exposure adds up in ways that might surprise you. Think about all the incidental sun exposure you get throughout the day: walking to your car, sitting by a window during lunch or running errands. These brief moments of exposure accumulate and can equal hours of direct sun exposure over time. Additionally, UVA rays penetrate clouds and windows, which means you're getting UV exposure even when you don't realize it.

Consistency is key to prevention and long-term results. Damage builds up over years and decades; however, consistent daily sunscreen protection can help prevent further damage and allow your skin's natural repair processes to work more effectively.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SUNSCREEN FOR DAILY WEAR

Not all sunscreens are greasy, smelly or pore-clogging. If you've been dealing with unpleasant sunscreen experiences, it's time to rethink your options and find a sunscreen that works for you. Here are some traits to look for in a daily sunscreen:

BROAD-SPECTRUM PROTECTION

Make sure your sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for ingredients like Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, Avobenzone or Oxybenzone on the label.

SPF 15 OR HIGHER

SPF 15 or higher provides adequate daily protection for most people. While higher SPF numbers offer slightly more protection, the difference between SPF 15 and SPF 50 is minimal in real-world use.

LIGHTWEIGHT, NON-COMEDOGENIC FORMULAS

You want a daily sunscreen that feels comfortable under makeup and won't clog your pores or feel heavy on your skin. Non-comedogenic means the product is formulated not to block pores, reducing the risk of breakouts.

PURE, PHARMACEUTICAL-GRADE INGREDIENTS

It's important to prioritize high-quality, pure ingredients in your sunscreen. This means avoiding harsh chemicals and opting for professional formulas that aren't oily or heavy. Look for trusted products that are clinically tested and gentle on even the most sensitive skin.

CHOOSE A PRODUCT FOR YOUR SKIN TYPE

Choosing a product tailored to your skin type will make a huge difference in the effectiveness of your sunscreen. Here are the professional GlyMed Plus products we recommend:

• Oily or Acne-Prone Skin: Try the lightweight Oil-Free Protective Moisturizer with SPF 15, which won't clog pores or add unwanted shine.
• Dry or Sensitive Skin: Choose the Moisturizing Protection Cream with SPF 15 for both protection and hydration.
• Combination Skin: Opt for the Hydrating Protection Gel with SPF 15 to balance protection without over-moisturizing oily areas.

INCORPORATING SUNSCREEN INTO YOUR ROUTINE

Making daily sunscreen a habit is easier than you think. Apply sunscreen as the final step in your morning skincare routine, after moisturizer but before makeup. Use about a quarter teaspoon for your face and neck.

Reapplication matters too. If you're outdoors for extended periods, reapply every two hours. For daily indoor activities, morning application is usually sufficient, though you may want to reapply if you'll be near windows for a long time.

PARTNER WITH A GLYMED PROFESSIONAL

Ready to make daily sun protection a priority? A GlyMed Plus aesthetician can help you choose the perfect sunscreen for your specific skin type and concerns. They can also recommend complementary products to enhance your overall skin care routine and address any existing sun damage. To find a GlyMed professional near you, visit the interactive map on our website!