You know I never miss an opportunity to talk about sunscreen as skincare.  It is key component of even the most basic routine and I believe it is one product no one should go without.  So when social media told me that May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, I knew this was my chance to return to my favourite topic.

Let me start by stating the obvious: I hope you never get skin cancer (or any type of cancer, frankly).  Using sunscreen, seeking shade and wearing protective clothing are three great ways to prevent this.  I’ve already started my summer SPF stockpile and am adding to my protective clothing beachwear collection with long sleeve UPF shirts, tunics and high-neck bathing gear.

And while avoiding sunburns is a key outcome of these actions, ALL UV rays from the sun damage skin DNA. not just the ones that burn us. When this happens, our cells have a harder time doing what they’re meant to do, specifically keeping our skin firm and plump.  And since skin has trouble keeping up on this front from about age 25, inviting damage from sun doesn’t seem like the wisest move.

UV exposure happens every day, which is why I encourage daily sunscreen application, no matter the season or the weather.  Sure, we may not burn on a cloudy day, but 95 per cent of the sun’s rays those that age. These reach our skin every single day and dramatically increase the ageing process.

And while I may not enjoy admitting my age, I do love it when people tell me I don’t look my age.  And I can definitely say that this has a lot to do with my daily sunscreen application.

So please take some time this month to find a sunscreen BFF.  Heliocare is the backbone of my collection for my face (Mineral Tolerance) and body (Invisible Spray), plus an oral supplement in the summer months keeps red sun bumps at bay.  I’ve also found great options from Volition and Bioderma for face.  And my love for La Roche-Posay continues.

How will you protect your skin this summer?