SUNSCREEN: The Sacred (and Seriously Underrated) Step in Skincare

Let’s be honest most people don’t think about sunscreen until summer hits or they’re headed to the lake. But here at Remedy Alley, we see sunscreen for what it really is: the quiet guardian of your skin’s health, beauty, and longevity.

It doesn’t matter what your skin type is, what shade your melanin is, or whether the sun is blazing or hiding behind clouds, daily sunscreen is a non-negotiable. Not because we’re trying to sell you something, but because your skin deserves to be protected every single day.

☀️ THE TRUTH ABOUT SUN DAMAGE (IT’S NOT JUST SUNBURNS)

The sun gives life, warmth, and joy but too much of its energy breaks things down, especially our skin. And it’s sneaky. Damage builds slowly, often invisibly, until it shows up in ways we don’t love:

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Uneven tone and stubborn hyperpigmentation

• Collagen breakdown (aka skin starts feeling “loose” or “tired”)

• Redness and sensitivity

• Slower healing after breakouts or treatments

• And yes, increased risk of skin cancer

UV rays don’t take a day off just because it’s cloudy or you’re indoors. UVA rays pass through windows. Reflection from snow, water, concrete, or sand amplifies the exposure. Think of it as low-level radiation that chips away at the skin barrier, even when you’re not “sunbathing.”

“BUT IT’S WINTER. I’M INSIDE MOST OF THE TIME.”

We hear it all the time. But here’s the thing: if you can see daylight, UVA rays are hitting your skin. Sitting by a window. Driving. Running out to grab coffee. Every bit adds up.

Daily SPF isn’t seasonal it’s sacred. It’s the anchor in your skincare ritual that keeps everything else working the way it should.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A SUNSCREEN

Not all sunscreens are created equal. In fact, we’ve spent years searching for ones that don’t clog pores, don’t leave a cast, and actually help the skin feel better. Here’s what we believe matters most:

• Broad-spectrum protection (UVA and UVB)

• SPF 30+ (50+ for longer sun exposure)

• Non-comedogenic and lightweight

• Comfortable to wear especially under makeup

• Bonus if it has calming ingredients, like Cica (Centella Asiatica)

That’s why we offer products like Cica-infused SPF and Rona’s CC Cream with SPF here at Remedy Alley. They’re Korean-formulated, gentle, and multifunctional perfect for barrier repair, redness-prone skin, and anyone who wants a subtle glow without heavy coverage.

AFTERCARE ESSENTIAL: SPF + TREATMENTS

If you’ve had a facial, wax, peel, or microdermabrasion with us, we’ll always remind you: Wear your sunscreen. Your skin is more vulnerable while it’s healing, and even brief exposure can lead to long-term pigment changes or sensitivity.

Sunscreen during recovery isn’t just protective it’s restorative. It lets your glow stay glowing.

FOR EVERY SKIN. EVERY SHADE. EVERYONE.

There’s a dangerous myth that deeper skin tones don’t need SPF. While melanin does offer some natural protection, it’s not enough to prevent damage. In fact, skin cancers in darker skin are often diagnosed later because people weren’t told they were at risk.

No matter your complexion, you deserve to age gracefully and protect your skin’s brilliance.

And for those with sensitive, reactive, or acne-prone skin? The right sunscreen soothes, rather than irritates. Formulas like Cica-based SPF are designed with skin harmony in mind nurturing the barrier, not suffocating it.

HOW TO USE SPF RIGHT

Here’s the simple truth: most people don’t use enough. Or reapply. Or think about the forgotten spots.

A few tips we live by:

• Use a nickel-sized amount on your face and neck

• Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure

• Reapply every 2 hours, or after sweating or swimming

• Don’t forget your ears, lips, hands, and chest

Bonus: Apply it to the backs of your hands before you drive. One of the most sun-exposed spots, and the first places we see aging.

SPF ISN’T VANITY. IT’S VITALITY.

At Remedy Alley, our philosophy is rooted in restoration, ritual, and results. Whether you’re coming in for a facial, a massage, a wax, or a moment of sacred stillness you’re investing in yourself. Daily sunscreen makes sure that investment continues working long after you leave.

It’s not about fear. It’s about respect. For your skin. For your health. For your future.

If you’re ever unsure what SPF is right for your skin or want one that pairs beautifully with your facials and daily routine ask us next time you visit. We’re here to educate, not upsell.

Until then, go forth and glow, but wear your armor.

— Stormy