Sun Protection, Without the Perfectionism
Spring is slowly trickling in, and our warm, sunny days will be here in no time! I am already finding myself drifting into the sun whenever I can. And while I love the sun, I am also notorious for being the person totally covered up in fear of a sunburn. In my practice, as well as in my younger years, I have seen just how anxiety-provoking choosing a sunscreen can be. We worry about chemical vs. mineral, about endocrine-disrupting chemicals, about whether we’re making the “right” choice.
And while those concerns often come from a thoughtful place, I also think they can get in the way. So let’s start here: you do not have to be perfect with sunscreen to be protected. What matters most is that you use it consistently, realistically, and in a way that fits your actual life.
Because a “less ideal” sunscreen that you’ll actually apply is far more protective than the “perfect” one sitting in your bag.
Why Sun Protection Still Matters
Skin cancer remains the most common cancer in the U.S., and much of that risk comes from UV exposure over time. The biggest concern isn’t just daily sun, moreso it is those intense, intermittent exposures: beach days, long afternoons on the water, or that first sunny weekend where we underestimate just how strong the sun is.
Research shows that just one blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence can double the lifetime risk of developing melanoma. Five or more blistering burns, especially between ages 15 and 20, can increase melanoma risk by 80%. This damage is cumulative and often results in life-altering skin cancers. Protection against both UVA and UVB is an essential form of preventative medicine.
A More Realistic Approach to Sun Safety
Instead of striving for perfection, think in layers:
Daily baseline protection (especially for the face)
More intentional protection during long outdoor days
Extra support like shade, hats, and clothing when possible
And yes, reapplying matters. But again, we’re aiming for better, not perfect.
Let’s Talk Sunscreen (Mineral vs. Chemical)
When you walk down the sunscreen aisle, you’ll typically see two categories: mineral and chemical. The difference comes down to how they protect your skin.
Mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) act as a physical barrier
Sits on top of the skin and reflects UV rays
Often preferred for sensitive skin
Tends to be thicker (though formulations have improved a lot)
Chemical sunscreen (ingredients like avobenzone, octinoxate, etc.) act as a sponge
Absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat
Usually lighter, easier to spread, and often less likely to have a whitecast
Often comes in sprays or sheer lotions
One thing I see often in practice is patients feeling really stressed about choosing the “right” sunscreen, especially when it comes to concerns about endocrine disruptors and ingredient safety. And while it’s completely valid to be thoughtful about what you’re putting on your body, this is a place where we can gently zoom out.
What matters most, first and foremost, is sun protection. This means, if you will use it, then it is a great option for you. If you find it at all cumbersome, then you are less likely to use it, which puts you at risk for sunburns.
What I Personally Do
For my face, I use a tinted mineral sunscreen daily. It’s part of my routine, it works well with my skin, and it’s easy to stay consistent. There are so many options for these, ranging from pretty inexpensive to quite costly. This where we need to choose what makes sense for you and your skin. Personally, my skin does totally fine with CeraVe Tinted Mineral. I like that it is easy to find and pretty affordable.
For my body, especially in the summer, I use both mineral and chemical, depending on the situation. Because honestly, sometimes a spray sunscreen is what makes reapplication happen. And for me, that tradeoff is worth it for the added protection. For mineral sunscreen, my favorite is Blue Lizard, which comes as a cream, spray, and stick. This is also my preferred recommendation for babies, kids, and those with sensitive skin. As for chemical sunscreen, I usually buy a value pack of Neutrogena Beach Defense spray to keep in my various bags. I also always keep a .
Small Things That Make a Big Difference
Aim for SPF 30–50, broad-spectrum. Higher SPF numbers are not as important. Instead, try to reapply the 30-50 SPF every 2 hours or so.
SPF lip balm is a must to protect your lips, especially when out on the water!
UV protective clothing provides some of the best sun protection. On beach or lake days, I always have my UV long sleeve and hat to provide that extra protection.
We all know that midday sun is the strongest, so try to get shade when you can.
Kids can really struggle with sunscreen application. Some parents find the Solar Buddy to be a great option for making this easier. Also, the more covered up a child’s bathing suit can be, the less you will need to reapply.
Final Thought
Sun protection doesn’t need to feel rigid or overwhelming. It’s not about doing everything perfectly. It’s about building habits that actually stick.
Wear the sunscreen. Reapply when you can. Choose what works for your life.
And then go enjoy the sun!
About the Author
Dr. Hannah is a naturopathic doctor providing whole body adjunctive healthcare to families in Maine. She believes every patient has their own unique health journey, which influences her personalized treatment approach. She has a passion for helping women, mothers and families heal and thrive, all while uncovering the root cause of whatever ails them. Her goal is to empower and guide her patients on the path towards healing the mind, body and soul through natural methods of healing. Dr. Hannah sees patients locally in both Brewer, Maine and Portland, Maine. Through telehealth, she is happy to serve the people of Lewiston, Ellsworth, and all the towns in between!
Disclaimer
The information provided on or through this website is for educational and informational purposes only. This information is not a substitution for proper and personalized medical diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or trusted healthcare provider before making an adjustments or changes to your healthcare regimen. Natural medicine is not inherently harmless, and therefore it is important to speak with your healthcare providers for personalized medical advice.