May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to talk about the skincare essential that should be in everyone’s daily routine: sunscreen. Whether you’re a sun worshipper or a shade seeker, SPF isn’t just for beach days—it’s a year-round must for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. To help you find your perfect match, we asked our Haute Beauty experts to share their go-to SPF products and why they believe daily sunscreen is non-negotiable.
Dr. Aya Ahram, Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Skin | New York, NY
I love the Avène Mineral Tinted Compact SPF 50, which is a 100% mineral-based sunscreen in a convenient cream-to-powder compact form, designed for sensitive skin. It contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which are mineral filters that provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection by reflecting and scattering UV rays to prevent sunburn, skin aging, and skin cancer. It also contains pre-tocopheryl, which is a photostable Vitamin E precursor that delivers powerful antioxidant protection, neutralizing free radicals caused by UV exposure and environmental stressors like pollution. This is a great product because it can be used to reapply sunscreen throughout the day, without smudging makeup. We recommend sunscreen reapplication every 2 hours if you're going to be outside!
For more information, visit Dr. Ahram's website and Instagram!
Renata Almeida, Medical Aesthetician, Naples Aesthetic Institute | Naples, FL
Wearing SPF daily is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your skin from premature aging, sun damage, and skin cancer. Yet it’s often overlooked in everyday routines. When choosing an SPF, look for a broad-spectrum formula with at least SPF 30, preferably mineral-based, to provide safe, effective protection without irritating the skin. The truth is, the best sunscreen is the one you’ll reach for every morning without thinking twice. At our practice, we love SkinCeuticals’ Physical Fusion 50 and Daily Brightening SPF 30 for their elegant finishes and added skincare benefits. For reapplication on the go, SkinBetter’s compact mineral SPF is a favorite among our patients and staff alike.
For more information, visit the Naples Aesthetic Institute's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Kiran Mian, Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Skin | New York, NY
My favorite SPF product is a broad-brimmed hat. While sunscreen application is very important, it is only a screen with variable protection based on adequate application. Sunscreen protection lasts for about 90 minutes and needs to be reapplied, especially when sweating or swimming. Physical protection from the sun is the most effective way to protect your skin. A UV protective broad-brimmed hat that physically blocks UV rays from reaching the skin, in addition to wearing sunscreen, is very helpful. I advise all my patients to wear hats whenever they step outside, to keep one in their car, and to have multiple options that go with different outfits. The amount of sun exposure we get, even from a five-minute walk from our car to the store, accumulates and can lead to skin damage. This includes not only sunburns and signs of aging, but also skin cancers. Protecting our skin from the sun is crucial to avoid UV damage to our DNA and skin cells. Our skin is the largest and vulnerable organ on our body, whose job is to protect us. Protecting it from UV damage is really important for skin function.
For more information, visit Dr. Mian's website and Instagram!
Dr. Sarah Khan, ARA Med Spa | Medical Spa | Los Angeles, CA
Sunscreen is a vital warrior in promoting good skin health and should be an essential step in every skincare routine. The two formulations of sunscreen are chemical sunscreen and mineral sunscreen, each comes with distinct advantages. Mineral sunscreens provide a physical barrier and sit on top of the skin. Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin and absorb UV rays by through a chemical process.
A common hesitation about mineral sunscreen is the white cast that can be left behind after application. This problem is easily solved with a chemical sunscreen with invisible or clear properties.
A cult favorite, best-selling invisible chemical sunscreen is the Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen. It is clear, scent-free, and non-irritating, and even doubles as a primer underneath makeup to leave a non-greasy, natural finish. This favorite product also offers ultimate skin protection at SPF 50 and is suitable for all skin types, including acne prone skin.
For more information, visit ARA Med Spa's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Victoria A. Cirillo-Hyland, MD, FAAD | Skin | Philadelphia, PA
Eryfotona® Actinica is an ultralight, cosmetically elegant, fast-absorbing emulsion providing all-mineral broad-spectrum sun protection for daily use. Its innovative formula contains patented DNA Repairsomes®, clinically proven to help repair existing sun damage. This unique formula contains zinc oxide, an inorganic mineral sunscreen, which effectively blocks the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. The DNA Repairsomes® are plankton-derived and have been shown to help repair existing damage caused by the sun. Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, is also included, which helps to boost the skin’s natural defenses, protecting against environmental damage, and to fight the early signs of skin aging.
Eryfotona® Ageless is another ultralight formulation that is tinted. It contains zinc oxide, DNA Repairsomes®, and Vitamin E like Eryfotona® Actinica. It also contains a peptide complex and peptide Q10, which support collagen and improve elasticity, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and to keep skin cells healthy. The tinted formulation helps the skin look more even in tone and corrects visible flaws.
You don’t have to stay out of the sun to be safe. Just remember to:
- SLIP on protective clothing.
- SLOP on sunscreen with SPF 30+.
- SLAP on a wide-brimmed hat.
- SLIDE on wrap-around sunglasses.
- SWALLOW Heliocare® Ultra.
- SEEK shade during midday hours.
For more information, visit Dr. Cirillo-Hyland's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Heather Merlo, Sei Tu Bella Aesthetics | Medical Spa | Tampa, FL
At Sei Tu Bella Aesthetics, our favorite SPF is the new EltaMD UV Skin Recovery Red Correcting Green Tint formula that not only protects with but also neutralizes reds and improves the skin barrier. This amazing formula is powered by a patented 2% AA Complex; this lightweight, green-tinted SPF calms and protects even the most sensitive skin, including rosacea-prone types. It uses color-correcting technology to instantly reduce visible redness while Zinc Oxide shields against UVA/UVB damage. With soothing Centella Asiatica and a ceramide-rich blend, it helps strengthen the skin barrier and defend against future irritation. Already a NEWBEAUTY AWARD WINNER for 2025, this post-procedure approved SPF is our go-to when our clients are in a Morpheus 8 series and post ablative and non-ablative treatments like our New Solaria C02 by INMODE.
SPF does more than prevent sunburn—it protects against premature aging, pigmentation, and skin cancer. We tell every patient: If you’re investing in your skin, you need to protect it. Skipping sunscreen puts your results at risk, whether it’s from facials or lasers. Think of SPF as skin insurance. You’ve worked hard for that glow and to reverse damage that has been done; now is the time, more than ever, to make sunscreen a daily habit.
For more information, visit Sei Tu Bella Aesthetics' website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Iani Silveira, Bella Vida Aesthetics & Wellness | Medical Spa | Miami, FL
As an Aesthetic Medicine and Skin Specialist, one of the most frequent questions I receive is about the best way to protect our skin, especially from the sun. With May being Skin Cancer Awareness Month, it's the perfect time to reinforce a crucial message: daily sunscreen use is non-negotiable for skin health. It's not just about preventing sunburn; it's about safeguarding against skin cancer and premature aging, 365 days a year, rain or shine, indoors or out.
So, what's my go-to product that I recommend to patients and use myself? It's the Sunbetter Tone Smart SPF 75 Sunscreen Lotion.
Here's why this product stands out and why more people should integrate it into their everyday routine:
- Superior Mineral Protection: This sunscreen boasts an impressive SPF 75, offering robust broad-spectrum protection against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. What truly sets it apart is its 100% mineral, non-nano active ingredients: 3.5% Titanium Dioxide and 10.0% Zinc Oxide. Mineral sunscreens provide immediate physical protection by sitting on the skin's surface and deflecting UV radiation, making them an excellent choice, especially for those with sensitive skin. It also has a PA++++ rating, indicating the highest level of UVA protection.
- Beyond UV—Comprehensive Environmental Defense: The sunbetter TONE SMART SPF 75 goes beyond traditional UV blocking. It's formulated to offer additional protection against modern environmental aggressors like blue light, infrared radiation, and pollution. This multi-faceted defense is increasingly important as our understanding of daily skin stressors evolves.
- Tone-Adapting and Cosmetically Elegant: One of the most common hesitations people have with mineral sunscreens is the fear of a white cast. This product brilliantly addresses that concern with its tone-adapting, lightly tinted formula. It blends seamlessly into most skin tones, providing a hint of color that can act as a perfect primer under makeup or even a light coverage foundation on its own. This makes daily application a pleasure, not a chore.
- Added Skincare Benefits: Beyond its protective qualities, this lotion is oil-free and includes beneficial ingredients designed to reduce skin redness and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, adding another layer of confidence for active individuals.
Why Daily Use Is Essential:
Many mistakenly believe sunscreen is only for beach days or intense outdoor activities. However, UV radiation penetrates clouds and windows, meaning your skin is exposed even when you're commuting, working by a window, or running errands on an overcast day. Consistent daily application of a broad-spectrum SPF like Sunbetter Tone Smart SPF 75 is your best defense against:
- Skin Cancer: Includes basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer.
- Premature Aging: Such as fine lines, wrinkles, sunspots, and loss of skin elasticity.
- Sunburn: This is not only painful but also significantly increases your risk of skin cancer over time.
This May, let's make a conscious effort to prioritize our skin health. Incorporating a high-quality, broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen like Sunbetter Tone Smart SPF 75 into your daily routine is a simple yet powerful step towards a lifetime of healthier, more radiant skin. Your skin will thank you for it.
For more information, visit Bella Vida Aesthetics & Wellness's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
S. Manjula Jegasothy, MD, FAAD | Skin | Coral Gables, FL
When it comes to sunscreen, Blue Lizard®️ is one of those underrated gems. It’s affordable, easy to find at most drugstores, and uses physical blockers like zinc oxide, which are often considered safer and gentler, especially for sensitive skin. They even have toddler-friendly options. And one of its more unique features? The formula actually leaves a subtle tint on the skin when it’s time to reapply, so even if the bottle’s tucked away in your beach bag, your skin gives you the reminder.
For more information, visit Dr. Jegasothy's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Jason Bloom | Face | Philadelphia, PA
With this being skin cancer awareness month, it is incredibly important to stress wearing sunscreen with an appropriate SPF daily. I have always been a huge fan of EltaMD UV Clear 46 SPF sunscreen for myself. My skin tends to be on the oilier side, and I used to break out from some other sunscreens. UV Clear has been the best for me in that it is non-comedogenic and is an incredibly light feeling on my skin.
Additionally, it contains niacinamide, which is a fantastic antioxidant found in skin care, that not only protects but rejuvenates the skin. Personally, I always pick sunscreens that use a physical blocking agent like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for me and my family. EltaMD UV Clear 46 SPF uses a transparent zinc oxide, which goes on without making your skin incredibly white looking and dries clear.
We always stress the importance of daily SPF to patients, family, and friends. As a facial plastic surgeon, I have spent years reconstructing facial defects and from skin cancer excisions. We know that there is an effective way to prevent skin cancers, and it is as easy as wearing your daily SPF coverage. We offer so many different options in our office, and our aestheticians are always there to recommend something that will work with your particular skin type.
For more information, visit Dr. Bloom's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
PA Reana Myers, Careaga Plastic Surgery | Miami, FL
One of my favorite SPF products is the EltaMD Physical Sunscreen. I love it because it provides broad-spectrum protection using zinc oxide, making it a great option for even the most sensitive skin types. It’s lightweight, blends in well, and doesn’t leave a heavy or greasy finish—perfect for daily wear.
Everyone should be using sunscreen every single day, not just when they’re at the beach or spending time outdoors. Daily SPF use helps prevent sunburns and lowers the risk of skin cancer, but it also plays a huge role in protecting your skin from premature aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.
Sun damage is cumulative, so even short periods of exposure, like walking to your car or sitting near a window, can add up over time. Incorporating sunscreen into your daily skincare routine is one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your skin healthy, youthful, and protected.
For more information, visit Careaga Plastic Surgery's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Anna Chacon | Skin | Miami, FL
One of my favorite SPF products is EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46. It’s lightweight, non-comedogenic, and ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin. What sets it apart is its high percentage of zinc oxide, a physical blocker that provides excellent protection against UVA and UVB rays without leaving a white cast. It also contains niacinamide, which helps calm inflammation and improve skin texture over time.
Many people still view sunscreen as a “beach day” product, but the reality is that UV exposure happens every single day, whether it’s sunny, cloudy, or even when you're indoors near windows. Daily use of SPF not only helps prevent skin cancer, which is the most common type of cancer in the U.S., but also slows signs of premature aging like fine lines, dark spots, and loss of elasticity. Incorporating a good sunscreen into your morning routine is one of the simplest yet most powerful steps you can take for long-term skin health.
For more information, visit Dr. Chacon's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Husam Almunajed | Smile | New York, NY
You wouldn’t dream of skipping sunscreen on your face, but what about your lips? Your lips are delicate, constantly exposed, and surprisingly vulnerable to sun damage. In fact, the lower lip is one of the most common spots for lip cancer, a type of oral cancer caused by prolonged UV exposure. And just like your skin, your lips can suffer from premature aging, discoloration, and even cancer without proper protection.
The fix is simple and chic: make SPF lip balm part of your daily beauty routine. Choose a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher, preferably one with broad-spectrum protection. Swipe it on before heading out, and reapply throughout the day—especially after eating or sipping that iced coffee. Bonus points if it’s tinted or packed with nourishing ingredients like shea butter or vitamin E.
If you spend time outdoors—whether on a beach, a hike, or a coffee run—pair your SPF lip balm with sunglasses and a wide-brim hat for effortless, sun-smart style. Remember: your lips are part of your look and your health. Protect them like you do your skin. SPF isn’t just a skincare essential—it’s a beauty must-have for lips, too. At your next dental visit, ask about oral cancer screenings. Your lips are a part of your smile - keep them safe, protected, and healthy.
For more information, visit Dr. Almunajed's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Carina Yates, APRN, FNP-BC, Dr. Jose Rodríguez-Feliz | Miami, FL
As a nurse practitioner injector working in aesthetics, I see firsthand how cumulative sun exposure impacts the skin. From premature aging, pigmentation, and even skin cancer. Daily SPF is one of the most effective ways to protect your skin and preserve its health long-term.
I always tell my patients: sunscreen isn’t just for beach days—it should be part of your everyday routine, year-round. And here’s my hot tip: don’t stop at your face. I apply SPF to my neck and the backs of my hands every morning—two areas that are often forgotten but tend to show signs of aging early!
There are plenty of quality sunscreens out there. One I personally use and often recommend to patients is SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50—a lightweight mineral formula that works well for a variety of skin types, including post-procedure or sensitive skin.
No matter which product you choose, the priority is consistency. Daily sun protection is one of the simplest and most important investments you can make in your skin’s long-term health.
For more information, visit Dr. Rodríguez-Feliz's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
