Sun’s out, healthy skin’s in: a guide to summer skin wellness
We love sharing the science behind your skincare routine. Our approach is always research over hype, so you can make informed, confident choices for your skin.
If you’ve been thinking about how to keep your skin healthy while enjoying summer, you’re not alone. Conversations around ingredient safety, sun exposure, and sunscreen can feel especially confusing. We’ve done the research from a practical, skin-science perspective to help simplify it.
A holistic approach to sun protection
Healthy sun care goes beyond sunscreen alone. Supporting skin health in the sun means combining smart habits with thoughtful protection.
Sun safety essentials
- Avoid sunburn by limiting unprotected sun exposure and using broad-spectrum sunscreen with safe ingredients
- Check your skin regularly and schedule routine skin checks with a dermatologist
- Cover up when needed with protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses during peak sun hours
Seek shade and plan wisely
- Create shade during extended outdoor time with umbrellas or canopies when natural shade is limited
- Choose early mornings or late afternoons when UV exposure is lower
- Be extra mindful near water, snow, or at high altitudes, where UV exposure can feel stronger
Build foundational skin health
- Prioritize daily skincare that supports skin comfort and resilience
- Choose high-quality botanical ingredients that help support the skin barrier
- Support skin from within with hydration, balanced nutrition, movement, and rest
Healthy skin responds better to environmental stress when its foundation is supported year-round. View our plant-powered routines.
Choosing a healthy sunscreen
Tips for choosing the right sunscreen:
- Look for broad-spectrum protection to help guard against both UVA and UVB rays
- Choose SPF 15–50+, and reapply every two hours during prolonged sun exposure
- Opt for mineral filters like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are widely recognized as safe and effective
- Use lotions or sticks rather than sprays for more even application
- Reapply consistently, especially after swimming or sweating
If ingredient transparency matters to you, Environmental Working Group offers a public database where sunscreen ingredient safety can be reviewed.
Enjoy the sun, thoughtfully
Sunlight can be part of a healthy, active lifestyle when approached with intention. By combining smart habits, consistent skincare, and reliable sun protection, you can enjoy summer while supporting your skin’s long-term health.
Healthy skin isn’t about avoiding the sun entirely. It’s about understanding how to work with it.