If you’ve ever stood in front of the sunscreen aisle wondering if SPF 100 is better than SPF 30—or if wearing a hat means you’re covered—you’re not alone.

Sunscreen can be confusing. And in skincare, confusion leads to inconsistency—which is exactly what we’re here to clear up.

At SPIRAL, we believe in simple strategies with real results. So let’s break down what matters when it comes to sunscreen, what the numbers really mean, and how to actually protect your skin this summer—from UV rays and heat-induced stress.

First Things First: Not All Sunscreens Are the Same

There are two main types of sunscreen:

Mineral (aka physical) SPF

• Ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
  
• Sits on top of the skin and reflects UV rays
  
• Great for sensitive or reactive skin
  
• Often labeled as “reef safe” or “broad spectrum”

Chemical SPF

• Ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, octinoxate
  
• Absorbs UV rays and converts them to heat
  
• Tends to be more sheer and cosmetically elegant
  

Needs to be applied 15–30 minutes before sun exposure

At SPIRAL, we often recommend mineral formulas—especially for those with pigmentation, melasma, or sensitized skin. They’re gentle, effective, and start working immediately.

SPF Numbers: Bigger Isn’t Always Better

We know it’s tempting to grab the highest number on the shelf (hello, SPF 100), but here’s what you really need to know:

• SPF 30 blocks ~97% of UVB rays
  
• SPF 50 blocks ~98%
  
• SPF 100? Only about ~99%
  

So yes, higher SPF can offer slightly more protection—but the real issue? Most people don’t apply enough or reapply often enough.

That’s the game-changer.
👉 Apply a generous layer—and reapply every 2 hours if you’re outside or sweating.

Pigmentation Isn’t Just Caused by the Sun—It’s Also Caused by Heat

If you’ve been struggling with dark spots, melasma, or redness, listen up:
Summer skin stress doesn’t just come from sunlight—it comes from heat.

Even if you’re wearing a hat, avoiding direct sun, or staying in the shade, your skin still responds to heat with inflammation—which can trigger excess pigment production and re-activate melasma or stubborn spots.

That’s why we always recommend layering your protection:

• Vitamin C – strengthens (and protects) skin + boosts SPF effectiveness
• Melanin suppressants – like kojic acid, arbutin, or tranexamic acid help prevent new pigment from surfacing
• Skin brighteners – like niacinamide or licorice root help fade existing pigmentation and even skin tone
• Cool-down strategies – like skipping hot yoga or overly steamy environments after sun exposure

Your Summer Skin Stack: Morning Routine Edition

Here’s how we layer it, step by step:

✔ Cleanser – start with something gentle, non-stripping, and pH-balanced
✔ Melanin suppressing + brightening actives – these target pigment at the source and help keep skin tone even
✔ Vitamin C serum – strengthens the skin, boosts antioxidant protection, and enhances SPF performance
✔ Moisturizer – if your skin needs it, go for lightweight hydration that won’t congest or compete with your SPF
✔ Mineral SPF (SPF 30–50) – apply generously (like two finger-lengths), and reapply every 2 hours when outdoors
✔ Gentle exfoliation – 1–2x per week to keep skin smooth and clear without disrupting your barrier

Note: Save your retinol, exfoliating acids, and other actives for your PM routine when your skin can rest and rebuild.

Bottom Line

Higher SPF doesn’t always mean more protection—but consistency does.
The key is finding a sunscreen you actually like using, reapplying regularly, and pairing it with ingredients that calm, protect, and regulate your skin in the heat.

If you’re not sure what sunscreen is right for your skin—or how to build your summer skin stack—we’d love to help.

✨ Book a Virtual Skin Coaching Session or send us a message—we’re always here for the skin chats.