SPF: A BevelUp Non‑Negotiable

SPF: Your Daily Shield Against Skin Aging and Damage

At BevelUp, skin health is the foundation of every aesthetic decision we make. Our approach to anti-aging is grounded in science—focused on prevention, protection, and long-term skin function. As we observe Skin Cancer Awareness Month this May, it’s the perfect reminder that daily sunscreen use isn’t optional, it’s essential. UV exposure is one of the leading external contributors to skin aging and cellular damage. Protecting your skin with a high-quality SPF is one of the most effective steps you can take to maintain a healthy, youthful complexion and preserve the results of your aesthetic treatments.

Sun Damage Doesn’t Just Show Up as a Tan

While genetics, hormonal changes, and lifestyle all contribute to how we age, UV radiation remains one of the most preventable causes of premature aging. Over time, unprotected sun exposure breaks down collagen and elastin, leading to fine lines, uneven texture, sagging, and pigmentation - particularly in patients prone to melasma.

And if you’ve had a baby recently or plan to become pregnant soon? Your risk of heat- and sun-triggered melasma increases. We see this often in postpartum patients trying to “reset” their skin before conceiving again.

SPF Is Your Daily Defense—But Not All Sunscreens Are Created Equal

We often hear patients say, “I use SPF in my makeup.” Unfortunately, that’s not enough. You need a dedicated, broad-spectrum sunscreen applied to clean skin—ideally with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide—and reapplied every 2 hours if you’re outside or exposed to heat and light.

At BevelUp, we carry sunscreens that are well-formulated and supported by dermatologic research. Here’s what we recommend, depending on your skin type and lifestyle:

SkinBetter SunBetter TONE SMART SPF 75 Sunscreen Lotion – High protection with a tone-adapting tint for most skin tones.

SkinBetter SunBetter SHEER SPF 70 Sunscreen Lotion – Lightweight and completely untinted, ideal for sensitive skin or those post-procedure.

SkinBetter SunBetter SHEER SPF 56 Sunscreen Compact – Pressed-powder format for easy mid-day reapplication.

SkinBetter SunBetter SHEER SPF 56 Sunscreen Stick – Travel-friendly for touch-ups or high-risk areas like lips and nose.

Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36 – Light tint and hydration in one, great for normal to dry skin types.

Alastin SilkSHIELD All Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 with TriHex Technology – Fragrance-free, lightweight mineral SPF - an excellent option for post-treatment or reactive skin.

If you're not sure which is right for you, we’re happy to help guide your selection.

Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreens: Which Is Right for You?

When choosing a sunscreen, you may have noticed the two main types: chemical and mineral. Here’s how they differ:

Chemical Sunscreens: These contain active ingredients like avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone, which absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, preventing them from penetrating the skin. They tend to be lightweight and invisible, however, some people may find chemical sunscreens irritating, particularly those with sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea.

Mineral Sunscreens: These use physical blockers like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to create a barrier that sits on top of the skin and physically reflects UV rays away from the skin. They provide immediate protection and are less likely to irritate, making them an excellent option for sensitive or post-treatment skin.

At BevelUp, we prefer mineral-based sunscreens because of their broad-spectrum protection, gentle formulation, and immediate effectiveness. For patients with sensitive skin or those recovering from aesthetic treatments, mineral sunscreens provide a safer, more reliable option to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Understanding SPF Ratings: What They Really Mean

You may have noticed sunscreens come in different SPF ratings—so what’s the difference? Here's a breakdown:

SPF 15 – Blocks 93% of UVB rays.

SPF 30 – Blocks 97% of UVB rays.

SPF 50 – Blocks 98% of UVB rays.

SPF 70+ – Blocks 98.6% of UVB rays.

The higher the SPF, the more UVB protection it offers. However, SPF is not a linear scale. The difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50 is only about 1-2% in terms of additional protection. What really matters is how often you reapply.

What About Reapplication?

SPF isn’t a “set it and forget it” step. It breaks down with heat, sweat, and light exposure. Reapplying every 2 hours, especially if you're outdoors, is essential to maintaining protection. That’s why we always suggest pairing your morning sunscreen with an on-the-go option like the SunBetter Stick or Compact.

A Final Reminder: Prevention Is the New Anti-Aging

Your annual skin exam with a dermatologist is just as important as your facial treatments and skincare regimen. While injectables, lasers, and medical-grade products all have a place, sun protection remains the foundation of skin longevity.

If you need help building an anti-aging plan that starts with prevention, we can help!