HERE COMES THE SUN!

In Virginia Beach we like to welcome the sun’s warm rays in the morning from the beach. With summer underway, it is time to have the sun conversation. Sunscreen yes or no and if yes what? As a holistic esthetician who practices by the ocean, I get this question a lot this time of year. I want to start our conversation by saying this, the sun is key to vital living. Full Stop. We are solar powered beings and it is in many ways our life force. There is a great deal of science that supports this. The sun serves as a vital catalyst for Vitamin D production, which remains fundamental for maintaining robust bone density. It impacts our circadian rhythm supporting healthy sleep patterns. It improves vision and the right amount of sunlight promotes melanin production which is our bodies natural sun protection. Two things can be true, you can love the sun and you can also want to protect your skin. Below I will give you some tips and insight to help you do both this summer. 

How much sun is safe? 

I am a scientist by nature. I love the science behind the skin’s health and how I can support this amazing organ through my practice of Esthetics. Sun exposure is an important conversation. When the sun is low on the horizon you get the most ocular and circadian benefits. Going out at sunrise increases energy levels naturally,  and sunset triggers melanin production improving sleep. Basking in the early morning light helps regulate our internal chemistry by lowering melatonin and boosting cortisol levels. Although often misunderstood, cortisol is absolutely vital for achieving a state of morning alertness. This biological shift, referred to as the cortisol-awakening response, is a key component of our vitality; indeed, various scientific papers indicate that insufficient cortisol upon waking is frequently linked to persistent fatigue.

The big question is always midday sun. Midday is the challenge because this is normally when most of us are out in the sun, golfing, pickleballing, beach bathing and at the pool. So here is some important information that may help you de-villainize

the midday sun. 

Optimal vitamin D production occurs midday

A peer‑reviewed paper by Moan et al. (2014) analyzed UV spectra, fluence rates, and the differing action spectra for vitamin D synthesis vs. melanoma risk. Their conclusion:

• Vitamin D synthesis is most efficient when UVB rays are strongest, which is midday (10 a.m.–1 p.m.).

• This is because UVB wavelengths responsible for vitamin D production peak at this time.

• The authors argue that common public health advice to avoid midday sun may unintentionally reduce vitamin D levels.

Why midday is paradoxically safer for vitamin D

The study highlights that:

• Vitamin D action spectrum peaks at shorter UVB wavelengths.

• Melanoma action spectrum peaks at longer UVA wavelengths.

• Midday sun has a higher UVB-to-UVA ratio, meaning you can make vitamin D faster with less total UV exposure, reducing cumulative skin‑damage risk.

This means short, controlled midday exposure may be safer than longer morning or late‑afternoon exposure, which contains proportionally more UVA (linked to deeper skin damage and melanoma).

What SPF do I need and what brands do you recommend?

For optimal protection I say no chemicals. Either wear protective clothing, light linens and cotton blends in lighter colors and full coverage swimwear for the babies. If I am going to apply something midday, I choose a sun barrier not a sunscreen, this is for all ages. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, indicating the level of protection from UVB rays. A sun blocker reflects the light rays away from the skin while a sunscreen absorbs and scatters the rays. I like Blissoma Photonic Mineral Cream. It includes Astaxanthinin in its formula, a botanical ketocarotenoid, this vibrant red plant pigment is sourced from specific varieties of microalgae and yeast which can further shield your complexion from the impact of ultraviolet rays. As it settles within your dermal layers, this powerful antioxidant acts as an internal barrier to inhibit UV absorption while actively tempering signs of previous sun exposure. Shira Ultimate UV Defense Broad Spectrum Mineral Sunblock is also a great option. If you want a really golden glow without the sun exposure you can pop in here for a beautiful airbrush spray tan! 

The SPF number indicates how well a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays—the type of ultraviolet radiation that causes sunburn and contributes to skin cancer. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• SPF 15 filters about 93% of UVB rays

• SPF 30 filters about 97%

• SPF 50 filters around 98%

• SPF 100 filters about 99%

  
  

FAQs About SPF and Sunscreen

• Q: Is SPF 50 twice as strong as SPF 25?A: No. SPF protection increases incrementally. SPF 50 offers slightly more protection than SPF 25, but it’s not double.

• Q: Can I use last year’s sunscreen?

• A: Check the expiration date. Sunscreen can lose its effectiveness over time.

• Q: Do I need sunscreen on cloudy days?

• A: Yes! Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds.

• Q: What’s the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen?

• A: Mineral sunscreens (like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat.

  
  

What I want you to garner from this is, the sun is not to be feared. It is our ally in so many ways. Do always check with your medical professionals for any medical advice about your health. If you have experienced skin cancer yourself or with a loved one, know that we are here to support your journey in the ways that we can. 

At the Beauty Tree Spa we are committed to the health, vitality, and wellness of this community and all of our beloved travelers who are passing through. Our doors are open, our tables are warmed and comfy, and we are ready to serve you. As we say in the south, come sit a spell, take a breath, drink a cup of tea and let your soul rest. See you soon. 

In health ~ Cynthia Cipperly Owner, The Beauty Tree Spa.