Though it’s vital all year, summer is the perfect time to remember the importance of sun protection. This year feels particularly relevant as I watch in horror as social media is flooded with a prevalence of tanmaxxing—deep tans and extensive, unprotected sun exposure as a badge of beauty honor. As someone who has had a few pre-cancerous spots zapped and several friends and family members who have had to have invasive Mohs surgeries to remove cancerous lesions on their bodies, it’s a trend I simply can’t get behind.
A new national survey by the Melanoma Research Alliance reveals there is currently widespread misinformation and confusion about sunscreen, which is leading many Americans to question or skip sun protection altogether, increasing their risk for melanoma.
Here are a few stats to consider:
Melanoma Risk Is Misunderstood
- 55 percent do not realize that repeated short periods of sun exposure increase melanoma risk
- 67 percent do not recognize that everyday exposure—like driving—can contribute to melanoma risk
Sunscreen Skepticism Is Prevalent
- 53 percent of Americans say they’ve seen claims that sunscreen ingredients may be harmful
- 59 percent are concerned about chemicals in sunscreen
Protection Isn’t Consistent
- Only 50 percent regularly use sunscreen outdoors
- Just 38 percent wear sunscreen during everyday activities
- 33 percent of Black respondents say people with darker skin tones generally do not need sunscreen.
Melanoma is one of the most preventable cancers, yet confusion about sunscreen and misunderstanding of daily sun exposure are making prevention more difficult. One of the easiest ways to protect yourself is with effective suncare.
Here are a few new offerings that I’ll be tossing into my bag as I head to the pool and the beach this summer.
PoolBar London
You can keep your skin safe and look chic in the process with this adorable and effective line of sun solutions that combine fabulous packaging with scrumptious scents. The line, which includes sunscreen sprays, mineral face and body creams, and more, is made up of non-greasy mineral broad-spectrum sunscreens that combine SPF protection with skincare benefits, courtesy of ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, shea butter, non-nano zinc oxide, vitamins C and E, and cocoa butter.
Each of the products in the line is formulated and manufactured in the U.S. and is vegan, cruelty-free, and reef-safe. Plus, they offer added blue-light protection from modern tech and environmental stressors while hydrating and strengthening the skin barrier. For beyond the beach, there is also a fabulous after-sun lotion formulated to hydrate, soothe, and moisturize skin.
ZO Skin Health Daily Mineral SunShade Broad Spectrum SPF 45 ($56)
Founded by renowned dermatologist Dr. Zein Obagi, ZO® Skin Health is known for its science-backed formulas and physician-dispensed protocols that support long-term skin health while targeting visible signs of aging. The new Daily Mineral SunShade delivers all-mineral protection in six buildable shades, offering a second-skin finish that enhances the complexion while defending against environmental damage—no white cast or heavy feel. Key benefits include full triple-spectrum protection against UVA/UVB, HEV (blue light), and IR-A rays; up to 12 hours of antioxidant protection; advanced all-mineral formula that is gentle and skin-compatible; and a non-greasy texture for comfortable, all-day wear.
Riversol Daily Glow Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ ($31)
This 100 percent mineral SPF 50 protects while delivering lightweight hydration and a natural, healthy glow without irritation or a white cast. Dermatologist developed and 100-percent mineral broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection, this sunscreen is formulated with non-nano zinc oxide for UVA/UVB defense, as well as niacinamide, which brightens and evens skin tone while boosting hydration and supporting barrier function. It is available non-tinted or in two tinted shades, making in an ideal BB cream replacement. Suitable for sensitive skin, this sunscreen is vegan, cruelty-free, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic
Actiiv Defense SPF 30 Hair, Scalp + Skin Spray ($20)
In-the-know sun seekers realize that head-to-toe suncare is the gold standard for protection, which makes this spray the perfect option to shield the hair and scalp from sun exposure. (It is formulated as an all-over sunscreen, so you can safely use it on your face and body, as well.) Using broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection (avobenzone and octisalate), it protects and nourishes with lightweight conditioning agents, as well a cold-pressed microgreen red clover, which helps maintain softness and manageability while the hair is exposed to the sun’s rays. With no chalky finish, this lightweight, non-greasy mist absorbs instantly and won’t weigh hair down or disrupt styling. According to Dana Rollo, head of education and hairstylist for ACTIIV, this product is particularly important in the summer and for those with color-treated hair. “Color tends to fade most from UV exposure. The sun breaks down the tone and vibrancy of the hair over time,” she says. “Without protection, you’ll see blondes go dull or brassy, brunettes lose richness, and vivid colors fade much faster. It’s not always dramatic—though sometimes hair can even burn—but damage adds up quickly when you aren’t protecting your hair from sun damage.”
Thinkdaily Everyday Sun Serum SPF 30 ($24.99)
Thinkdaily Everyday Sun Serum delivers mineral SPF 30 protection for everyday wear. Enriched with skin-nourishing ingredients like aloe vera to soothe and jojoba seed oil to hydrate, this lightweight serum boosts natural radiance and is perfect alone or under makeup, as it blends easily for all skin types and tones. It will leave skin with a lightweight finish that never feels heavy, greasy, or chalky. Plus, it’s water and sweat resistant for up to 80 minutes and is vegan, reef-friendly, and free from BPA and harmful chemicals. Other standout suncare options in the line include Thinksport All Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Spray SPF 50 ($18.99) and Thinkkids Brush-On Sunshield SPF 30 ($24.99), which is perfect for kiddos who fight traditional spray and lotion applications.
MDSOLAR SCIENCE Daily Perfecting Moisturizer ($76.00)
This lightweight, antioxidant-rich daily moisturizer with SPF 30 does more than hydrate, it transforms morning routines into a powerful act of protection and renewal. Formulated to visibly brighten, smooth, and deeply hydrate, it helps defend against sun damage and premature aging while restoring the skin’s natural radiance. The texture absorbs effortlessly into skin, leaving a soft, luminous finish. Infused with naturally derived lavender and rose herbal antioxidants, this formula helps calm, comfort, and rejuvenate stressed skin while delivering a subtle, botanical aroma without synthetic fragrances. This SPF moisturizer is safe for sensitive skin and recommended for daily use by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
SunSolveMD FIRM + REPLENISH SPF50 ($88.00)
Particularly effective for menopausal skin that can lose structure and hydration, this skin-firming SPF is designed to rebuild resilience using the company’s patented CeraPol-3 Technology™ peptides, ceramide-rich hydration, and 12 percent non-nano zinc oxide, helping restore firmness and radiance while protecting skin from UV-induced collagen breakdown. it delivers broad-spectrum protection while targeting fine lines, wrinkles, and signs of aging. Enriched with zinc oxide, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and soothing botanicals, it helps repair past UV damage, restore moisture, and boost elasticity as it restores, fortifies, and nourishes the skin barrier
