Guide to Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Summer 2025

(Glow Smart, Stay Protected with Colorado Beauty RN)

If there’s one non-negotiable in skincare—especially heading into another beautiful Colorado summer—it’s sunscreen. And not just any sunscreen, but the right sunscreen for your skin, your lifestyle, and your goals.

At Colorado Beauty RN, we know you’re serious about your skin health. (We are, too.) You’ve invested time and care into treatments that boost your confidence and bring out your natural glow—and sunscreen is the key to protecting that investment.

Whether you’re planning long hikes, patio brunches, beach trips, or backyard barbecues this season, here’s your complete guide to choosing the perfect sunscreen for Summer 2025—and how to actually enjoy wearing it.

Let’s glow (safely) together!

☀️ Why Sunscreen is More Than Just "Protection"

We all grew up hearing that sunscreen helps prevent sunburns—and that's absolutely true.

But if you're in your 30s, 40s, or 50s, you know your skincare goals have evolved beyond avoiding a little redness after a beach day.
Today, sunscreen is so much more than just protection. It’s your daily anti-aging powerhouse.

Here’s why sunscreen deserves a front-row seat in your everyday skincare routine:

📊 90% of visible skin aging is caused by sun exposure (yes, 90%!)

Fine lines, wrinkles, sagging, sun spots... Most of these changes that we associate with "getting older" are actually directly tied to cumulative UV exposure over time—not just aging itself.

Every moment your skin is exposed to the sun without protection, UV radiation damages the DNA in your skin cells. Over time, that damage shows up in the mirror—and not just in the ways you expect.

🧬 UV rays break down collagen and elastin—the building blocks of firm, youthful skin

Collagen and elastin are like the scaffolding that keeps your skin smooth, plump, and resilient.
When UV rays hit your skin, they create free radicals—unstable molecules that attack and break down these vital proteins.

Result?

• Fine lines deepen
  
  

• Skin starts to sag
  
  

• Texture becomes rougher and less elastic
  
  

Without consistent sun protection, your collagen bank account drains faster than you can replenish it—even if you’re investing in treatments like microneedling or resurfacing.

🎨 Sun exposure can lead to pigmentation, uneven tone, and texture changes

If you've noticed more sunspots, melasma patches, or dull, uneven skin tone popping up, you can thank the sun.

Even a few minutes of unprotected exposure each day can trigger melanin production—and once pigmentation takes hold, it’s notoriously difficult (and expensive) to treat.

Prevention is your most powerful tool.
A good sunscreen isn’t just blocking sunburn; it’s protecting your even skin tone, your glow, and the investment you've made in your treatments and skincare products.

🔥 Without daily SPF, even the best skincare treatments won't last as long or work as well

Let’s be real—you’ve likely put time, money, and trust into achieving your current glow. Whether it's:

• Investing in microneedling to stimulate collagen
  
  

• Scheduling laser resurfacing to clear pigmentation
  
  

• Refreshing with tox (Botox/Dysport) to smooth fine lines
  
  

Without diligent sun protection, your results can fade faster than you want.

Post-procedure skin is especially vulnerable to UV damage.
Freshly resurfaced, microneedled, or treated skin is in a regenerative, sensitive state—meaning UV exposure can lead to complications like hyperpigmentation, scarring, or inflammation if you're not properly protected.

Think of sunscreen as the insurance policy that keeps your skin looking fresh, healthy, and youthful between treatments.

✨ Bottom line: sunscreen isn’t just a shield—it’s an essential part of your long-term skin strategy

At Colorado Beauty RN, we often tell our patients:
"SPF is the one product that guarantees a return on your investment."

It preserves the results you worked hard to achieve.
It supports your skin’s natural resilience.
It protects your future skin—the skin you’ll thank yourself for caring for now.

So this summer—and every season after—wear your sunscreen proudly.
Not just for today, but for the confident, radiant future you’re building.

Stay tuned for our favorite SPF recommendations that blend beauty, science, and protection perfectly—because glowing skin is smart skin! 🌞

📚 Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreen: Which One is Best?

Physical (Mineral) Sunscreens
✅ Made with ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide
✅ Sit on top of the skin and physically block UV rays
✅ Great for sensitive or post-procedure skin (after microneedling, resurfacing, or peels)
✅ Start protecting immediately after application

Chemical Sunscreens
✅ Made with ingredients like avobenzone, octinoxate, or oxybenzone
✅ Absorb UV rays and transform them into harmless heat
✅ Tend to be thinner, invisible, and easier to layer under makeup
✅ Require about 15–20 minutes to activate

Pro Tip:
👉 If you’re spending a lot of time outdoors or have just had a skin treatment, we usually recommend a physical sunscreen.
👉 If you want an invisible, ultra-light option for daily errands or under makeup, a chemical or hybrid sunscreen can be a great fit.

At Colorado Beauty RN, we offer both, depending on what works best for you!

🌟 How to Choose the Right SPF for You

Walking down the sunscreen aisle—or scrolling through endless options online—can feel overwhelming.
SPF 30, SPF 50, mineral vs. chemical, tinted vs. sheer... where do you even begin?

At Colorado Beauty RN, we believe choosing sunscreen should feel empowering, not confusing.
You deserve protection that fits your skin, your lifestyle, and your goals—without the guesswork.

When picking your summer sunscreen, here are the four major questions to ask yourself:

1. What's Your Skin Type?

Understanding your skin’s natural tendencies is key to choosing a sunscreen you’ll actually enjoy wearing every day (because the best sunscreen is the one you’ll use consistently!).

• Oily or acne-prone skin?
  Look for oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
  A great option for touch-ups is a light mineral powder like Noon Brush & Go, which sets makeup, controls shine, and re-ups your sun protection without feeling heavy.
  
  

• Dry or sensitive skin?
  Seek out sunscreens that offer hydration and soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or aloe vera.
  Your SPF should double as a moisture barrier, helping calm any redness or tightness while still providing powerful UV protection.
  
  

• Post-procedure skin (after laser, microneedling, chemical peels)?
  Your skin is especially vulnerable during the healing phase, so a 100% mineral sunscreen is a must.
  Look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients—they’re gentle, protective, and less likely to cause irritation.
  We typically recommend sticking to mineral-only formulas for at least 1–2 weeks after treatment to protect and nurture your newly renewed skin.
  
  

2. How Will You Use It?

Different days call for different sunscreens. Your daily lifestyle matters just as much as your skin type.

• Everyday errands, work, or light outdoor activity?
  A lightweight, breathable SPF 30–50 works beautifully.
  These formulas feel invisible on your skin and layer easily under makeup or moisturizer, so you won't even notice you’re wearing it (until you notice how fresh your skin looks years from now!).
  
  

• Beach days, hikes, or sweaty outdoor workouts?
  You’ll want a sunscreen that’s specifically labeled water-resistant and sweat-resistant.
  Look for certifications like "80 minutes of water resistance," which means it will hold up better against pool dips, lake trips, and sweat sessions in the Colorado sunshine.
  
  

• Need easy reapplication?
  Reapplication every two hours is crucial if you're outside for extended periods—even with the best formulas.
  Powder SPFs (like Noon Brush & Go) and SPF sprays are perfect for mid-day refreshers without messing up your makeup or skincare.
  
  

Pro Tip:
👉 Keep a powder SPF in your purse and a spray sunscreen in your car—you’ll never have an excuse to skip reapplying!

3. Do You Want Additional Skin Benefits?

Today’s best sunscreens do a lot more than just block UV rays.
They can brighten, calm, and even strengthen your skin while they protect.

At Colorado Beauty RN, we love multi-tasking sunscreens that treat and shield at the same time. Some bonus ingredients to look for:

• Vitamin C:
  Antioxidant power that brightens skin tone, neutralizes free radicals, and boosts the effectiveness of your sunscreen.
  
  

• Niacinamide:
  A gentle, powerhouse ingredient that reduces redness, improves skin texture, and supports your skin barrier—especially good if you tend to flush easily.
  
  

• Peptides:
  Tiny proteins that help stimulate collagen, firm the skin, and soften fine lines.
  
  

Why not get a little extra love out of the product you’re using every single day?
A sunscreen that doubles as a mini skincare treatment is truly the ultimate summer glow hack.

4. What Finish Do You Prefer?

Texture and finish matter!
After all, if you love how a sunscreen feels and looks on your skin, you’ll be much more likely to apply it religiously—which is the real key to long-term results.

• Matte finish:
  Great for oily, combination, or acne-prone skin types.
  These formulas help control shine throughout the day without feeling heavy or chalky.
  Perfect under makeup or for outdoor events where you don't want to look "glistening."
  
  

• Dewy finish:
  Gorgeous for dry, mature, or dull skin.
  Dewy formulas impart a healthy, hydrated glow that looks youthful and luminous—without crossing into greasy territory.
  
  

• Tinted sunscreen:
  One of our absolute favorites, especially during the warmer months!
  A slight tint helps even out redness, blur imperfections, and can even replace your foundation for lightweight, low-maintenance days.
  Plus, tinted sunscreens often provide added protection against visible light (like from screens and smartphones), which can also contribute to pigmentation.
  
  

📝 Your Perfect SPF Is Waiting

Choosing the right sunscreen isn’t about guessing—it’s about understanding your skin, your needs, and your goals.
At Colorado Beauty RN, we’re here to help you make smart, simple choices that make protecting your glow easy, not overwhelming.

No matter where summer takes you—mountain trails, poolside cabanas, or backyard cookouts—your skin will be ready to shine (safely).

📲 Stop by Colorado Beauty RN or message us for personalized SPF recommendations—we'll help you find the perfect match so you can spend less time worrying and more time glowing!

🌞 Here’s to a beautiful, protected, and radiant Summer 2025!

🧴 Our Favorite Colorado Beauty RN Sunscreen Picks for Summer 2025

✨ 1. SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense SPF 30

• Lightweight hydration with a brightening boost
  
  

• Blends beautifully under makeup or on bare skin
  
  

• Formulated with niacinamide to calm and clarify
  
  

Perfect for:
Everyday wear, dull skin, post-winter skin refresh

✨ 2. Noon Brush & Go Powder SPF

• Easy-to-carry powder format for quick reapplication
  
  

• Oil-absorbing, non-comedogenic, and non-irritating
  
  

• Perfect for a full face of makeup or post-sweat sessions
  
  

Perfect for:
Active days, reapplying on the go, oily or acne-prone skin

✨ 3. SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50

• Tinted mineral sunscreen for sheer coverage + strong protection
  
  

• Water-resistant for up to 40 minutes
  
  

• Boosts radiance while guarding against UVA/UVB damage
  
  

Perfect for:
Sensitive skin, post-procedure care, beach and pool days

🚨 Common Sunscreen Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Even if you’ve been religious about your SPF game for years, these mistakes are super common—and easy to fix:

1. Using Too Little

You need about a nickel-sized amount for your face and a shot glass-sized amount for your body. Don’t be shy!

2. Skipping Reapplication

Even the best sunscreen wears off. Set a phone reminder every 2 hours when you’re outdoors.

3. Only Wearing Sunscreen When It’s Sunny

UV rays penetrate clouds—and even windows.
Sunscreen is an everyday essential, rain or shine.

4. Ignoring Key Spots

Don’t forget:
👃 Nose
👂 Ears
👋 Hands
👣 Tops of feet
💋 Lips (use a lip balm with SPF!)

🌞 Your Summer Glow Starts With Protection

At Colorado Beauty RN, we’re not just passionate about helping you look your best—we’re invested in helping you protect what you’ve worked so hard to achieve.
(Glowing, youthful, healthy skin is a lifetime project, not a one-time event!)

This summer, let’s work smarter together:

• Choose a sunscreen you love to wear
  
  

• Make SPF a non-negotiable part of your routine
  
  

• Protect your glow now so it can last for seasons—and years—to come
  
  

📲 Need help choosing the right sunscreen for your skin goals?
Stop by Colorado Beauty RN or message us for personalized recommendations!

Here’s to your best, brightest, most beautifully protected summer yet! 🌞💖