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What you need to know about sunscreen.

Ashley M. Meyers
Jun 30, 2025
1 min read

DAMO Blog July 2025 edition. Photo of woman putting sunscreen on a baby.
SUNSCREEN YOUR EVERYDAY ARMOR AGAINST
According to the American Cancer Society, an
estimated 104,960 new melanomas will be
diagnosed in 2025. The good news? Most skin
cancers are preventable. Unlike many other
cancers, we have a powerful and accessible
tool for prevention— and it usually costs
under $20: Sunscreen.
Why Daily Sunscreen Use Matters
Whether it’s a sunny afternoon in July or a
cloudy day in January, daily sunscreen use is
essential to protect your skin from the
damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Despite its proven benefits, sunscreen
remains one of the most underused tools in
skincare. Many people either skip it altogether
or apply it incorrectly. Continue reading to learn more. Photo of sunscreen lotion. Photo of woman applying sunscreen.

SUNSCREEN
MORE THAN CANCER PREVENTION
SUNSCREEN NOT ONLY HELPS PREVENT SKIN CANCER—IT’S ALSO ONE OF
THE MOST EFFECTIVE ANTI-AGING TOOLS AVAILABLE. DAILY USE CAN
SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE THE APPEARANCE OF WRINKLES, SUN SPOTS, AND
OTHER SIGNS OF PHOTOAGING.
Photo of 4 woman sitting in a field in the sun.
COMMON SUNSCREEN
MISTAKES INCLUDE:
•Using a sunscreen with too low an SPF
•Applying too little
•Forgetting to reapply every two hours
•Neglecting commonly missed areas
(ears, neck, scalp, feet)
In addition to regular sunscreen
use, annual full-body skin exams by
a licensed dermatology provider are
critical for early detection and
prevention of skin cancers.
THE SCIENCE BEHIND SUN DAMAGE
UV radiation from the sun comes in two
primary forms:
•UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skin,
accelerating signs of aging like fine lines and
pigmentation.
•UVB rays affect the skin’s surface, causing
sunburn and playing a significant role in skin
cancer development.
Both types contribute to skin cancer, including
melanoma—the deadliest form.
Photo of the sun in the sky.

What to Look for in a Sunscreen SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures protection against UVB rays. SPF 30, when applied properly, blocks about 97% of UVB radiation. While higher SPFs offer slightly more protection, no sunscreen can block 100% of rays. To provide protection against UVA and UVB rays look for broad spectrum sunscreen.
Photo of sunscreen and SPF written in the sand.
Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreens: What’s the Difference? Understanding the two main types of sunscreen can help you choose the best product for your skin type and lifestyle.
Physical (Mineral) Sunscreens These sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays. They work immediately upon application and are ideal for sensitive skin, children, and those with conditions like rosacea. Key Ingredients:•Zinc Oxide: Excellent broad-spectrum protection •Titanium Dioxide: Broad-spectrum, though slightly less UVA coverage.
PROS •Gentle and non-irritating •Less likely to clog pores •Effective immediately
CONS •Can leave a white cast, especially on deeper skin tones •May feel thicker on the skin
Chemical Sunscreens These absorb into the skin and convert UV rays into heat, which is then released. They must be applied 15–30 minutes before sun exposure. Key Ingredients:•Avobenzone: UVA protection, often needs stabilizers •Octinoxate, Octocrylene: UVB protection and formulation stability •Oxybenzone: Broad-spectrum, but with potential environmental and hormonal concerns
PROS Lightweight and invisible finish •Ideal under makeup •Easier to apply and blend
CONS
•May irritate sensitive or acne-
prone skin
•Not effective immediately
•Some ingredients raise
environmental concerns
Photos of sunscreen, woman applying sunscreen on a child with white marks, woman applying makeup, and a 15 minute timer.

Dermatology Associates of Macomb-Oakland, PC

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