As the weather warms up and spring break approaches, many of us are eager to spend more time outdoors—whether it’s lounging by the pool, hitting the beach, or simply enjoying longer, sunnier days. But as we welcome the sunshine, it's essential to ensure our skin is properly protected. At NM Aesthetics, we believe that SPF is a year-round necessity, but as outdoor activities increase, so does the need for diligent sun care. In this guide, we’ll break down why SPF is crucial in spring, how to keep your skin safe from UV damage, and the best skincare products to support a radiant, healthy glow.

Why SPF is Essential in Spring

Springtime may feel milder than the peak summer months, but the sun’s UV rays are still powerful enough to cause skin damage. In fact, UV exposure intensifies as the days get longer, and with more time spent outside, our skin becomes increasingly vulnerable.

Here’s why sunscreen should be a non-negotiable part of your skincare routine:

• UV Rays Are Always Present: UVA rays, which penetrate deep into the skin and accelerate aging, remain strong year-round. UVB rays, responsible for sunburns, become more intense in spring, increasing the risk of immediate and long-term skin damage.
• Increased Outdoor Activities: Whether you're at the beach, hiking, or simply dining al fresco, the more time spent outside means more exposure to UV radiation.
• Water and Sand Reflect UV Rays: If your spring break plans include the beach or a lake, remember that water and sand reflect UV rays, intensifying their impact on your skin.

How To Protect Your Skin This Spring

Protecting your skin from UV damage requires more than just applying sunscreen once and forgetting about it. Follow these steps to ensure your skin stays healthy and radiant all season long:

Start With a Strong Skincare Base

Before applying SPF, your skin should be well-prepped with hydrating and antioxidant rich products to keep it balanced and resilient.

• Hydration First: A lightweight, hydrating serum helps your skin retain moisture before sunscreen application. We love the Hydrinity Restorative HA and Alastin HA Immerse for their deeply hydrating benefits.

• Antioxidant Protection: Reach for Alastin C-Radical Defense, iS Clinical Pro-Heal, or a budget-friendly option with Face Reality Antioxidant Peptide Serum. These Vitamin C rich serums are going to help promote collagen production while fighting free radicals and brightening hyperpigmentation. 

• Lock in Moisture: A well-moisturized complexion is key for smooth sunscreen application. Some of our favorite moisturizers include Alastin Ultra Nourishing, and Hydrinity Hydri-C to support skin barrier health while keeping skin soft and supple.

Choose the Right Sunscreen

Not all sunscreens are created equal. When selecting an SPF, look for a broad-spectrum formula that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF of at least 30.

For daily wear, opt for a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that layers well under makeup, while for outdoor activities, a water-resistant formula is best to withstand sweat and water exposure. Explore our SPF product picks.

Apply SPF Generously and Reapply Often

Sunscreen needs to be applied generously to be effective. Use two finger lengths for your face and a shot-glass-sized amount for your body.

Since SPF wears off throughout the day—especially with sweating or swimming—it’s essential to reapply every two hours. If you're at the beach or engaging in outdoor sports, you’ll need frequent reapplication.

Don’t Forget Your Lips, Eyes and Hands

While we often focus on protecting our face, other areas are just as prone to sun damage:

• Lips: The skin on your lips is delicate and susceptible to sunburn. Use a lip balm with SPF to keep them protected and moisturized.
• Eyes: The skin around your eyes is thin and highly sensitive. Wearing SPF under your eyes, along with sunglasses that offer UV protection, helps prevent fine lines and wrinkles.
• Hands: Our hands are exposed to the sun more than we realize. Applying SPF to your hands daily helps prevent premature aging and sunspots. We love the Daily Prevention Ultra Defense Moisturizer SPF 50 because it hydrates and softens hands while protecting them from the sun.

Seek Shade and Wear Protective Clothing

While sunscreen is essential, it’s not the only defense against sun damage. Take additional precautions by:

• Wearing wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses
• Opting for lightweight, long-sleeved clothing with UPF protection
• Seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 AM – 4 PM) when UV rays are the strongest

We recommend the EltaMD UV AOX Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF40 and UV AOX Mist Broad-Spectrum SPF40. 

Keep Your Skin Radiant All Season Long

Spring is a time for fresh starts, and taking care of your skin should be a top priority. By incorporating SPF into your daily routine, staying hydrated, and choosing high-quality skincare products, you can enjoy the sunshine safely without compromising your skin’s health.

At NM Aesthetics, we’re here to help you achieve glowing, protected skin all year round. Whether you need personalized SPF recommendations or a refreshed skincare routine for the season, we’re happy to assist.

Ready to upgrade your sun protection? Visit NM Aesthetics to shop our expert-selected SPF products or schedule a consultation with our team today. Let’s make this spring break the season of healthy, radiant skin!