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Do I still need to wear sunscreen after Summer?

SPF Isn't Seasonal

by Virginie Morin in Blog: Everything Under the Sun

Why You Still Need to Wear SPF in Fall and Winter: Your Year-Round Sunscreen Guide

For most of us, summer and SPF go hand in hand. Long beach days, sunny hikes, and afternoons by the pool practically demand it. But what happens when the leaves change color, the temperatures drop, and your summer wardrobe goes into storage? Do you still need to wear sunscreen in the fall and winter?

Short answer: Yes! 100% yes.
And not just a “yes if you have time” kind of answer. A “yes, every single day” kind of answer.

The truth is, UV rays don’t take a seasonal vacation. Just because your skin doesn’t feel like it’s burning in the colder months doesn’t mean it isn’t at risk. UV damage can occur year-round, even when it’s cloudy, rainy, or snowing. If you want to protect your skin from premature aging, sunburn, and skin cancer, sunscreen should remain part of your daily routine, long after summer ends.

Why Sunscreen Is Essential Beyond Summer

Many people think sunscreen is only for hot, sunny days, but that’s one of the biggest skincare myths out there. The reality is:

  • UVB rays (the ones that cause sunburn) are stronger in the summer,
  • But UVA rays (the ones that cause long-term skin damage and premature aging) stay consistent all year and they penetrate clouds, glass, and even some clothing.

That means you can get skin damage while driving to work, walking to your car in the morning, or sipping coffee near a sunny window. Snow and ice can even reflect up to 80% of UV rays, making them more intense in winter than you might expect.

Bottom line: If you skip SPF in the colder months, you’re leaving your skin exposed to the same invisible, aging, and damaging rays as in summer.

The Year-Round Benefits of Wearing Sunscreen

Wearing sunscreen every day isn’t just about preventing sunburn. The benefits extend far beyond the obvious, and they’re worth committing to year-round:

  1. Protects Against Skin Cancer: Consistent SPF use is proven to lower your risk of developing skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the U.S.
  2. Prevents Premature Aging: UVA rays break down collagen and elastin, causing fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.
  3. Keeps Skin Tone Even: Sunscreen helps prevent sun spots, hyperpigmentation, and redness caused by UV exposure.
  4. Supports Overall Skin Health" Many modern sunscreens (especially mineral-based ones) include antioxidants, vitamins, and hydrating ingredients for extra skin benefits.

4 Easy Ways to Keep Your Skin Protected Beyond Summer

The good news? Wearing sunscreen daily doesn’t have to feel like a chore. With the right products, SPF can enhance your skincare routine and even replace certain makeup products, giving you a healthy, radiant finish no matter the season.

1. For Your Body: Mineral Crème SPF 50

If you’ve been avoiding mineral sunscreens because you’re worried about white cast, this is the game changer. Our Mineral Crème SPF 50 blends seamlessly with mineral white cast and a silky, “your-skin-but-better” finish.

Why you’ll love it:

  • Broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection
  • Infused with powerful antioxidants like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, green tea, cranberry, and pomegranate extracts
  • Smooths skin texture while delivering a luminous glow
  • Works as both a daily sunscreen and a light complexion enhancer

Wear it under makeup or on its own for a natural sun-kissed look, minus the sun damage.

2. For Your Face: MD Mineral BB Crème SPF 50

Swap your traditional foundation or primer for our MD Mineral BB Crème SPF 50. This ultra-creamy, tinted formula comes in three shades, light, medium, and deep, and offers enough coverage to conceal redness from conditions like melasma or rosacea, while still looking natural.

The ultimate skin-loving trifecta:

  • A natural-looking matte finish for the perfect no-makeup look
  • Anti-aging ingredients like brightening niacinamide and de-puffing caffeine
  • High broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection that can even be reapplied over makeup during the day

For some, it has enough coverage to replace their foundation.

3. For Your Lips: Hydrating Sheer Lip Balm SPF 30

Your lips are one of the most overlooked areas when it comes to sun protection, and they’re just as vulnerable to UV damage. Our Hydrating Sheer Lip Balm SPF 30
 offers color, care, and coverage in one.

Why it’s a must-have:

  • SPF 30 broad-spectrum protection
  • Major hydration from shea butter, avocado oil, and olive oils
  • Available in 7 gorgeous shades, from sheer and glowy to bold and rich

Perfect for keeping lips soft, smooth, and safe year-round.

4. For On-the-Go Protection: Tinted Solar Stick SPF 40

When it comes to sun protection, reapplication is non-negotiable. Our Tinted Solar Stick SPF 40 is perfect for touch-ups on the go, no mirror or messy hands required.

Fast facts:

  • Portable and mess-free
  • Glides on silky smooth with no white cast
  • Can be used on lips, cheeks, nose, forehead, ears, shoulders, anywhere the sun touches
  • Ideal for quick coverage when you’re out and about

Keep one in your bag, car, or jacket pocket so you’re never caught unprotected.

Your All-Season SPF Routine

If you want to keep your skin healthy, youthful, and glowing, SPF is non-negotiable, no matter the season. Here’s your easy checklist for making sunscreen a daily habit:

  1. Apply SPF as the last step of your morning skincare routine (before makeup).
  2. Use enough product, about a nickel-sized amount for your face, and a shot-glass amount for your body.
  3. Don’t forget often-missed areas: ears, neck, hands, and lips.
  4. Reapply every 2 hours if you’re outdoors, and after swimming or sweating.

By keeping SPF in your routine year-round, you’re not just preventing sunburn, you’re investing in the long-term health and beauty of your skin.

Fall and winter may bring cooler air and cozier outfits, but they don’t bring a break from UV exposure. By using high-quality, multi-benefit SPF products like our Mineral Crème SPF 50, MD Mineral BB Crème SPF 50, Hydrating Sheer Lip Balm SPF 30, and Tinted Solar Stick SPF 40, you can protect, nourish, and beautify your skin every single day of the year.

Because healthy skin is always in season.

Tags: skincare suncare

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Why Retinol and SPF are an Essential Beauty Duo

Why Retinol and SPF are an Essential Beauty Duo

Why Retinol and Sunscreen Are the Ultimate Skincare/Suncare Duo When it comes to skincare, no two routines are exactly alike. What works wonders for one person may leave another feeling dry, irritated, or underwhelmed. Your skin’s needs depend on many factors, your skin type, age, lifestyle, and even where you live. But there are a few universal truths in skincare, and one of the biggest is this: two products belong in everyone’s daily routine, no matter your skin type, gender, or age. Those products are retinol and sunscreen. Dermatologists around the world recommend them as the gold-standard combination for keeping your skin healthy, youthful, and glowing. Retinol helps undo signs of aging, and sunscreen prevents new ones from forming. Used together, they’re like the skincare world’s dream team , the power couple that can transform your skin’s future. Why Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable Let’s start with the one that hopefully needs no introduction: sunscreen. By now, most of us know that daily SPF isn’t optional, it’s a necessity. Sunscreen is your first line of defense against the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause skin cancer, sunburn, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, and overall skin aging. But the benefits of daily sunscreen use go beyond just reducing skin cancer risk. Sunscreen protects your skin from: Premature aging: UV rays are the leading cause of visible signs of aging. Dermatologists estimate that up to 90% of skin aging is caused by sun exposure. Sun spots and uneven tone: Hyperpigmentation, melasma, and blotchy patches are often triggered by UV damage. Loss of skin elasticity: Sun exposure breaks down collagen and elastin, leading to sagging over time. Think of sunscreen as your skin’s personal bodyguard, blocking the invisible but powerful rays that can undo years of good skincare habits. Why Retinol Is the Gold Standard for Anti-Aging If sunscreen is your bodyguard, retinol is your personal trainer — working hard behind the scenes to help your skin perform and look its best. Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, is one of the most researched and proven skincare ingredients in the world. Dermatologists call it the “gold standard” for anti-aging for good reason. Here’s what retinol can do for your skin: Boost cell turnover: Retinol helps your skin shed old, dull cells more quickly so newer, fresher cells can take their place. Stimulate collagen production: Collagen is the protein that keeps skin plump and smooth. Retinol helps slow collagen breakdown while encouraging your skin to make more. Reduce fine lines and wrinkles: Over time, retinol visibly softens the appearance of crow’s feet, forehead lines, and smile lines. Brighten skin tone: By speeding up cell renewal, retinol helps fade dark spots and post-acne marks. Refine texture: Retinol smooths rough patches and minimizes the look of large pores. If your skin is already showing signs of sun damage, think fine lines, uneven tone, or texture changes, retinol can help reverse and repair much of it. Why Retinol and Sunscreen Go Hand-in-Hand Retinol and sunscreen are most powerful when used together, but not at the same time of day. Retinol works best at night, and sunscreen is essential during the day. Here’s why they’re such a perfect pair: 1. Retinol Makes Your Skin More Sensitive to the Sun One of retinol’s key benefits is that it brings fresher skin cells to the surface faster. The flip side? These new cells are more delicate and vulnerable to UV damage. Without proper sun protection, you could undo the benefits of retinol and end up with more sun spots or irritation. 2. Sun Exposure Can Degrade Retinol UV light doesn’t just damage your skin, it also breaks down retinol. That’s why dermatologists recommend applying retinol only at night, when there’s no sunlight to interfere with its potency. 3. Sunscreen Protects Your Progress If you’re investing time and money into a retinol routine, you don’t want to lose your progress to new sun damage. Daily SPF ensures you protect your investment in healthier, smoother skin. The Two Golden Rules of Using Retinol If you remember nothing else from this article, remember these: Apply retinol only at night. This keeps it safe from sunlight and gives it time to work while you sleep. Wear sunscreen generously every morning (and reapply). At least SPF 30, preferably SPF 50 if you’re outdoors for extended periods. Traditional retinol can sometimes cause dryness, redness, and peeling, especially if you have sensitive skin. That’s why we love Evening Retinol Serum. This dermatologist-developed formula uses encapsulated retinol, which stays protected until it penetrates deeper into the skin, reducing the risk of surface irritation. It’s also packed with soothing ingredients like: Chamomile – calms redness and irritation Seaweed extract – hydrates and nourishes Caffeine – reduces puffiness and wakes up tired skin Aloe – deeply soothes and hydrates Niacinamide – strengthens the skin barrier and improves tone The result? All the benefits of retinol with fewer side effects. Can You Use Retinol in the Summer? Absolutely. You can (and should) continue using retinol year-round, just be extra diligent with your sunscreen in the summer months when UV intensity is higher. Apply retinol at night, follow with SPF every morning, and reapply SPF every two hours when outdoors. The Best Skincare Routine When Using Retinol When you’re using retinol, your skin needs extra hydration and gentle care. Harsh scrubs and stripping cleansers can worsen irritation, so look for formulas that cleanse, soothe, and protect. Here’s a dermatologist-approved routine to maximize your results: Evening Routine (Retinol Time) Step 1: Wash Away One Step CleanserThis gentle but effective cleanser removes dirt, oil, waterproof makeup, and even mineral sunscreen, all without leaving skin feeling tight. Bonus: it lightly exfoliates, so your skin is fresh and ready to absorb retinol. Step 2: Evening Retinol SerumApply a pea-sized amount to your face, avoiding the delicate eye area. Let it work overnight to smooth, tone, and revitalize your skin while you sleep. Morning Routine (SPF Protection Time) Step 1: Wash Away One Step CleanserGently cleanse away any nighttime products or oils. Step 2: Daily Perfecting Moisturizer SPF 30This is your first layer of sun defense. It hydrates with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and nourishing oils, all while providing broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection. Step 3: Mineral Tinted Creme SPF 30 or MD Mineral BB Creme SPF 50For a makeup-like finish with extra sun protection, layer on a tinted SPF. These formulas even skin tone, grip makeup, and provide another shield against UV rays. Choose the Mineral Tinted Creme for light coverage or MD Mineral BB Creme for medium coverage. That Settles It Retinol and sunscreen aren’t just “nice-to-have” skincare products, they’re essentials. Retinol works to repair and renew your skin overnight, while sunscreen protects your progress during the day. Used together, they’re one of the most powerful duos in dermatology for keeping your skin healthy, youthful, and radiant for years to come. Whether you’re just starting your skincare journey or upgrading your current routine, this is the perfect time to commit to these two hero products. Your future skin will thank you.

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What is BB Crème?

What is BB Crème?

BB Cream Benefits: Why Everyone’s Obsessed  There are so many reasons BB Cream deserves a permanent spot in your routine. Here's what you get in just one product:  💛 1. Skincare Meets Makeup  BB Cream bridges the gap between skincare and cosmetics. It gives you just enough coverage to blur imperfections, while still letting your natural skin shine through. If you’ve ever wished your foundation did more for your skin, BB Cream is the glow-up you’ve been waiting for.  💛 2. Light-to-Medium Coverage  Unlike heavy foundation, BB Cream gives you a breathable, weightless finish. It's perfect for everyday wear, whether you're running errands, hopping on Zoom, or heading out for brunch.  💛 3. Skin-Loving Ingredients  Some BB creams go above and beyond. For example, our MD Mineral BB Crème SPF 50 is packed with ingredients that nourish while you wear:  Vitamin C to brighten  Niacinamide + Caffeine to reduce redness and even tone  Squalane for hydration  Green tea, cranberry, and pomegranate extracts for antioxidant protection  Basically, your skin gets a spa day every time you apply.  Why You Should Choose a BB Cream with SPF  Now let’s talk sun protection, because here’s the thing: sun damage is one of the top causes of early skin aging, not to mention more serious concerns. That’s why incorporating SPF into your daily routine is non-negotiable. The best way to make it a habit? Use a BB cream with sun protection, like, say, a BB cream with SPF 50.  Let’s break it down even further:  ☀️ A BB Cream Sunscreen = Effortless Protection  We get it, layering multiple products every morning isn't always realistic. But with a sun protection BB cream, you get your tint, skincare, and SPF 50 in one easy step. That’s huge. You’re no longer skipping sunscreen because you “don’t have time” or “don’t like the feel.” BB Cream handles it all while giving you a glowy finish.  ☀️ Why SPF 50?  We love a BB cream with SPF 50 because it offers a higher level of defense against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. It’s especially great if you’re spending any time outdoors, even just commuting or sitting by a sunny window.  ☀️ Daily Use Is Key  Wearing SPF shouldn’t be just a beach-day thing. UV rays can do damage 365 days a year. By using a BB cream sunscreen every morning, you’re investing in your future skin, reducing the risk of wrinkles, discoloration, and other signs of photoaging.  What’s the Deal With Mineral BB Cream?  Okay, now let’s talk ingredients. Not all BB creams are created equal, especially when it comes to sunscreen. That’s where mineral BB creams come in.  What is a Mineral BB Cream?  A mineral BB cream with SPF uses physical (mineral) sunscreen filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, rather than chemical filters. These ingredients sit on top of the skin and physically block the sun’s rays, rather than absorbing them.  Our pick? MD Mineral BB Crème SPF 50, which uses naturally-derived, EcoCert zinc oxide for clean, reef-safe protection that’s gentle on even sensitive skin.  Why Go Mineral?  Better for sensitive or acne-prone skin  Less likely to cause irritation  Environmentally friendly (yay for coral reefs!)  Broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays  If you’ve struggled with sunscreen reactions or breakouts in the past, switching to a mineral BB cream sunscreen might be a game-changer.  BB Cream vs. Foundation vs. Tinted Moisturizer vs. Tinted SPF  Let’s clear up the confusion. These products may look similar, but they serve different purposes:  Foundation  Full coverage  More pigment, less skincare  Typically no SPF  Great for special occasions or glam looks  Tinted Moisturizer  Hydrating with a hint of color  Skincare-first, lightest coverage  Often no or low SPF  Feels like a moisturizer  Tinted SPF  Sunscreen first, tint second  Minimal coverage, more for tone-evening  SPF-focused  BB Cream  All of the above in one: tint, skincare, hydration, and SPF 50  Slightly more coverage than tinted moisturizer  More skin benefits than foundation  Perfect for everyday use and no-makeup makeup days  So if you’re asking “Is BB Cream better than foundation?” the answer depends on what your skin needs. For everyday wear with maximum skin benefits and protection? BB Cream takes the cake.  What’s the Best BB Cream?  Honestly, we’re a little biased, but we’re also kind of obsessed with our MD Mineral BB Crème SPF 50. Why? Because it’s:  Dermatologist-developed  100% mineral-based  Available in three versatile shades: Light, Medium, and Dark  Whipped, airy texture that blends beautifully  Packed with powerhouse ingredients for skin health  Matte, non-greasy, and non-comedogenic  This isn’t just a makeup product, it’s your entire skincare + SPF routine in one. Perfect for busy mornings, travel, or just simplifying your life.  BB Cream or Mineral Tinted Crème, Which Should You Choose?  Here’s the scoop:  MD Mineral BB Crème SPF 50: more tinted coverage, more skincare actives, matte finish, velvety texture  Mineral Tinted Crème SPF 30: sheerer tint, creamy lightweight feel, focused on sun protection  TL;DR: Want a sheer veil of tint and sunscreen? Go Tinted Crème. Want more coverage and skincare benefits? BB Crème all the way.  The Bottom Line BB Creams are the ultimate hybrid product, and choosing a mineral BB cream with SPF makes them even more powerful. Whether you're after a dewy, healthy glow or just want to cut your morning routine in half, BB cream sunscreen is your glow-to.  So now that you know what BB cream is, and you’re all caught up on the BB cream benefits, the only thing left is… picking your shade!  Ready to meet your new favorite BB Cream? Try our dermatologist-developed MD Mineral BB Crème SPF 50 and see the difference for yourself.  ☀️ Your skin, but glowier. With SPF. ☀️   

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Is Mineral Sunscreen Better?

Is Mineral Sunscreen Better?

When it comes to sun protection, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. What works for your skin might not work for someone else, and that’s completely okay. But one thing is universal: you need to find a sunscreen you actually like to wear every single day. That’s where the real magic happens. Between mineral and chemical sunscreen, is mineral sunscreen better? For many people, especially those with sensitive skin or an eye on eco-conscious living, the answer is yes. In today’s blog, we’ll help you understand the difference between the two, dive into what mineral sunscreens are, and highlight the key mineral sunscreen benefits that make them such a fan favorite. Let’s unpack everything you need to know to make the best SPF choice for your skin. What Are Mineral Sunscreens?Mineral sunscreen, also known as physical sunscreen, uses zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as its active ingredients. These naturally occurring minerals sit on top of the skin to form a protective barrier that reflects and absorbs harmful UV rays. In fact, they absorb approximately 95% of UV rays and reflect the remaining 5%, providing comprehensive protection the moment you apply it. So, how does mineral sunscreen work? Unlike chemical formulas that absorb into the skin and then convert UV rays into heat, mineral sunscreen acts as a shield, blocking UV radiation before it penetrates your skin. It’s a gentle, effective, and reliable form of protection, specially when formulated correctly. What Is Chemical Sunscreen?Chemical sunscreen is made from synthetic UV filters like avobenzone, oxybenzone, octinoxate, homosalate, and others. These ingredients absorb into the skin, where they chemically react with UV rays, converting them into heat that’s then released from the body. While chemical sunscreens can also offer broad-spectrum protection, they tend to blend more easily and feel lighter. However, some filters can cause irritation for sensitive skin types or exacerbate skin conditions like melasma or rosacea. Is Mineral Sunscreen Better?Is mineral sunscreen better? For many people, yes. Dermatologists often recommend mineral sunscreens for sensitive, acne-prone, or post-procedure skin, because they don’t absorb into the skin and are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. They’re also considered safer for marine life. Many beachgoers and eco-conscious consumers choose mineral sunscreens to help reduce their environmental footprint, especially in destinations that have banned chemical filters like oxybenzone and octinoxate. Benefits of Mineral SunscreenLet’s dive deeper into the benefits of mineral sunscreen and why it continues to grow in popularity. Broad Spectrum Protection: Mineral sunscreens naturally protect against UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays without needing extra ingredients. This means fewer chemicals on your skin and fewer chances of irritation. Skin-Calming and Non-Irritating: Because mineral sunscreens sit on top of the skin rather than being absorbed, they’re less likely to cause redness, breakouts, or allergic reactions. That’s a major reason why mineral sunscreen is better for sensitive skin types, children, and anyone recovering from cosmetic procedures. Reef-Safe and Planet-Friendly: 100% mineral sunscreens do not contain reef-damaging ingredients like oxybenzone or octinoxate, making them safer for marine ecosystems. Many mineral formulas also come in eco-conscious packaging, like ours. Immediate Protection: Unlike chemical SPF, which can take 20–30 minutes to become effective, mineral sunscreen works instantly. That means you’re protected from the moment you apply. BBetter for Reapplication: Formulated properly, mineral sunscreens can be worn on top of makeup and re-applied throughout the day without disrupting your look. They're also less likely to sting eyes when sweating. How to Tell If Your Sunscreen Is 100% MineralLook for zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide listed under “active ingredients” at the top of the ingredient label. If those are the only actives, you’re good to go. Any mention of avobenzone, octinoxate, or other filters indicates the presence of chemical ingredients. Pro tip: just because a product says “mineral-based” doesn’t mean it’s 100% mineral. Always check the label! Are There Benefits to Chemical Sunscreens?Yes! Chemical sunscreens have advantages too: They tend to blend in faster and leave no white cast, which is important for darker skin tones. They’re often more water- and sweat-resistant, which can be helpful for active lifestyles. Some formulas, like our Daily Perfecting Moisturizer SPF 30, double as lightweight skincare with hydrating and anti-aging benefits. Just like with mineral sunscreen, the quality of the formula makes all the difference. At MDSolarSciences, we’ve taken great care to ensure both our mineral and chemical formulas are clean, effective, and skin-loving. Does Sunscreen Expire?Yes, both types of sunscreen expire. Using expired sunscreen can lead to burns, sun damage, and signs of premature aging. Always check the expiration date and store your SPF in a cool, dry place to maintain its effectiveness. What Makes MDSolarSciences’ Mineral Formulas Different?At MDSolarSciences, we’re redefining how mineral sunscreen benefits your skin. Gone are the days of thick, chalky, ghostly formulas. Our dermatologist-developed mineral sunscreens are: Lightweight and invisible on all skin tones Made with sustainably-sourced zinc oxide Packed with powerful antioxidants and calming botanicals Cruelty-free, reef-safe, and vegan Plus, we use our exclusive ProVention-R® Antioxidant Complex, a proprietary blend that helps fight free radicals, prevent premature aging, and support skin recovery over time. Whether you choose our mineral or chemical formulas, you’re getting more than just SPF, you’re getting skincare that protects and improves your skin’s health. And we don’t just talk the talk: Our products are EWG top-rated, come recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, and are formulated with recyclable packaging to reduce environmental impact. Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Sunscreen for You?Still wondering what are mineral sunscreens best for, or which type of SPF you should choose? Here’s our advice: the best sunscreen is the one you will use every single day. If you want something that’s clean, calming, reef-safe, and dermatologist-approved, mineral sunscreen might be the right choice. The benefits of mineral sunscreen, from instant protection to environmental kindness, are hard to beat. And if you prefer a lightweight feel with zero blending time, one of our chemical SPFs might be a better match for your routine. No matter your preference, you deserve sun protection that works for your skin, lifestyle, and values, and we’re here to help you find it. Mineral Sunscreen For Your Face Mineral Moisture Defense SPF 50 Mineral Crème SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen For Your Body Solar Stick SPF 40 Mineral Tinted Crème SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen For Your Kids Mineral KidStick SPF 40 Mineral KidCrème SPF 50 Send us your questions at info@mdsolarsciences.com, we would love to help you find the perfect SPF for your skin needs.

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