Daily sunscreen is NON-NEGOTIABLE.

We love the sun, don't we? Its brightness, its light, that comforting warmth that puts us in a good mood. But, as they say, not everything that shines is gold. Beneath that radiance hides an invisible danger: ultraviolet rays (UV) that harm our skin without us realizing it.

That's why sunscreen is not just a beauty recommendation, it's a necessity to keep our skin healthy.

Today, we're diving into the world of sunscreens and why they should be your best friend. Not only for keeping wrinkles and premature aging at bay, but more importantly, they reduce the risk of skin cancer. Stay tuned to discover why this seemingly simple product is a true skin care hero.

• Protection against UV rays: The sun bombards us with two types of UV rays, UVA and UVB, which can wreak havoc on our skin. UVA rays are like those stealthy villains that cause premature aging, while UVB rays are the culprits behind those unpleasant sunburns. A good broad-spectrum sunscreen is like your armor, it protects you from both and allows you to enjoy the sun worry-free!
• Prevention of premature aging: Want to maintain that radiant, youthful skin? Then, it's time to embrace sunscreen. Sun exposure without protection can accelerate the aging process, causing wrinkles, dark spots, and loss of firmness. With sunscreen, you're saying "stop!" to those unwanted signs of aging and keeping your skin fresh and youthful.
• Reduction of skin cancer risk: Skin cancer is a real danger, but sunscreen can be your best defense. By protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, you're significantly reducing the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma. It's like wearing a protective shield against those malignant rays!
• Prevention of sunburns: Sunburns are like the sun's bad mood, nobody wants them! But with the right sunscreen, you can avoid those painful and unpleasant burns. Its magical formula absorbs and disperses UV rays before they can wreak havoc on your skin, leaving you free to enjoy the sun without worries.
• Protection against environmental damage: In addition to UV rays, our skin has to deal with other environmental foes, such as pollution and free radicals. Sunscreen acts like a superhero that protects your skin from these harmful elements, creating a barrier that keeps the skin safe and happy.

Sunscreens are your skin's best friends, always there to protect and take care of you. Not just when you're going to the beach or pool, the sun's light impacts your skin even on the cloudiest days, even if you don't leave the house... do yourself a favor and apply sunscreen every day, 365 days a year. You'll see how your skin thanks you for it.

Within the world of sunscreens, there are various types based on their composition and how they work. Here's a brief summary to make it clearer for you.

Types of sunscreen protectors

1. Physical filters (minerals): These sunscreens contain natural ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which create a physical barrier on the skin to reflect and scatter UV rays. They used to be denser and leave a whitish layer on the skin years ago, but formulas have improved a lot now and may not leave a trace. They're ideal for sensitive and allergy-prone skin, as they tend to be less irritating and gentler.
2. Chemical filters (organic): These sunscreens contain chemical compounds that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, thus preventing them from damaging the skin. They are lighter in texture and easier to apply, making them popular for daily use. However, some people with sensitive skin may experience irritation with these filters.
3. Broad-spectrum sunscreens: These consist of a mix of physical and organic filters and offer protection against the two main types of UV rays, UVA and UVB. They are the best choice to ensure comprehensive coverage against sun damage and premature skin aging.
4. Water-resistant sunscreens: These sunscreens are specially formulated to be more durable when exposed to water or sweat, making them ideal for outdoor activities and water sports. However, it's important to reapply the sunscreen after swimming or sweating excessively to maintain effective protection.
5. Colorful sunscreens (BB Creams, CC Creams): These products combine sun protection with makeup, providing light to moderate coverage along with UV protection. They're ideal for simplifying your daily skincare routine and are especially popular among those who want a natural and radiant look. If you opt for these, apply enough... Sometimes we don't want to overdo the makeup coverage and leave our face halfway protected. In my case, I use them as a "second sunscreen," meaning I first apply my broad-spectrum sunscreen and then a BB cream with sun protection.

Each type of sunscreen has its own advantages and considerations, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your individual needs and usage preferences. But always choose one with an SPF of 50.

We've covered the different compositions of sunscreens, and each of them can come in various textures, so you can choose and have no excuse. Don't tell me "the texture is horrible on my skin" anymore, I won't believe that...

Different sunscreen textures:

1. Creams:
• Pros: They offer very even coverage and long-lasting protection. They're like a protective layer of hugs for your skin, perfect for keeping it hydrated and soft if you have dry or sensitive skin.
• Cons: They can leave a greasy or sticky feeling on the skin, especially if they are very dense. Some people may find them too heavy for their skin type.
2. Lotion or fluid:
• Pros: They offer even coverage and long-lasting protection. Like creams, they form a protective layer on the skin and keep it hydrated. More suitable for oily skin or warm and humid environments. They usually work well as a makeup base.
• Cons: If you have dehydrated skin, they may be too light for you. Let a few minutes pass from when you apply it until you apply makeup, so it settles well and doesn't form "pellets."
3. Sprays:
• Pros: They are lightweight and easy to apply, and they absorb quickly, leaving a refreshing sensation on the skin. They are ideal for people with oily skin or those who prefer a light texture.
• Cons: They are less durable than creams or lotions and provide less coverage, especially if used in conditions of sweating or water exposure. It's also more difficult to apply them evenly. I would recommend them for "touch-ups" in sun protection, but not as the primary sunscreen.
4. Powder textures:
• Pros: They are convenient and easy to apply over makeup. Ideal for quick touch-ups during the day without altering your makeup, to maintain that matte finish without shine.
• Cons: They do not provide complete protection, especially if not applied in thick layers... and if you apply a thick layer, your skin may have a strange texture. They can leave a matte finish that is not suitable for all skin types.
5. Mousse or foam:
• Pros: They are lightweight and absorb quickly, leaving a smooth and silky feeling on the skin. They are ideal for people looking for a fresh, non-greasy texture.
• Cons: Sometimes they can be less durable than other textures, especially if used in conditions of sweating or water exposure. They may also require a larger amount of product for adequate coverage.

The choice of texture depends on your personal preferences, your skin type, and the activity you're going to do. You have to use sunscreen every day of the year, but you're not going to use the same sunscreen every day... The most important thing is to find several sunscreens that you like and can alternate depending on the day and that they have an SPF of 50.

Remember that in addition to sunscreen, photoprotection also involves photoavoidance, that is, avoiding direct sun exposure during peak radiation hours (usually between 10 in the morning and 4 in the afternoon), wearing hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing, and seeking shade when possible.

For daily use (when I don't usually wear makeup), I use a cream one (from L'Oréal revitalift), but if I'm going to wear makeup, I prefer to use a more fluid one (Isdin age repair). If I'm going to the beach, then one that is fluid and has mineral filters (I love the ones from Heliocare)… What about you? That way I can include it in my sunscreen arsenal.