Why Sunscreen Is the Most Important Anti-Aging Product

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What does SPF actually mean?
What SPF should I use?
Can makeup with SPF replace my sunscreen?
Mineral or chemical sunscreen?
Do I really have to reapply sunscreen?
Our go-to sunscreen

If you ask any skincare professional the #1 product that protects your skin and keeps it looking youthful—it’s sunscreen. Every time.

At Let’s Face It Aesthetics and Med Spa in Cookeville, Tennessee, we see it all: sun damage, pigmentation, fine lines, and skin laxity. And while we offer amazing treatments to reverse those signs of aging, the truth is—prevention starts with SPF.

What does SPF actually mean?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It measures how well a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays, the kind that cause sunburns and contribute to skin cancer. But there’s more to the story—there are three types of UV rays:

UVC: These don’t reach the earth’s surface.
UVB: These cause burns and most skin cancers.
UVA: These penetrate deeper, accelerating aging and also contributing to skin cancer.

To guard your skin fully, look for a sunscreen labeled broad-spectrum. That means it protects against both UVA and UVB damage.

What SPF should I use?

For everyday wear, go with SPF 30 or higher. If you're spending extended time outdoors—at the lake, hiking, or working in the yard—opt for SPF 50 or 60. Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen to get the full protection listed on the label, so going higher helps close the gap.

How much sunscreen is enough?Think: more than you’d expect.

For your face and neck, use about half a teaspoon.
For your entire body, you’ll need about 1 ounce (roughly a shot glass full).
Don’t forget easy-to-miss areas like the ears, hairline, tops of the feet, and backs of the hands.

Where does sunscreen fit in my skincare routine?Apply sunscreen as the last step in your morning skincare routine—right after moisturizer and before makeup. If you’re using a water-resistant, broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, you’re set.

That said, some people prefer applying SPF on bare skin to keep things simple. The best routine is the one you’ll stick to consistently.

Can makeup with SPF replace my sunscreen?

In short: nope.

While makeup with SPF offers a little bonus protection, it’s not enough on its own. You’d have to apply far more than normal (think: 7x your usual amount) to get the labeled protection. Use a dedicated sunscreen underneath your makeup for reliable coverage.

What’s better—mineral or chemical sunscreen?

Both are effective, but they work differently:

Chemical sunscreens (like avobenzone, octisalate, and octocrylene) absorb UV rays and convert them into heat.
Mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) sit on the skin’s surface and reflect some UV rays while also absorbing them.

If you have sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens tend to be gentler. They’re also a good option if your skin reacts to certain ingredients. Just know that some mineral formulas may leave a white cast, especially on deeper skin tones.

Our advice? Pick the formula that feels best on your skin. The most effective sunscreen is the one you’ll wear daily.

Do I really have to reapply?

Yes! Especially if you’re outdoors. Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours, and always after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.

If you work indoors and away from windows, you might not need to reapply. But if you step outside—even for a quick lunch or coffee run—it’s smart to touch up. Keep a travel-sized bottle in your bag, car, or desk drawer so you’re always prepared.

Pro tip: Sunscreen works best alongside other forms of protection. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and seek shade when you can—especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Our Go-To Sunscreen

If there’s one product we believe every person should be using daily, without exception, it’s sunscreen. But not just any sunscreen will do.

At Let’s Face It Aesthetics and Med Spa in Cookeville, Tennessee, we proudly recommend ZO Skin Health’s Daily Sheer Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50. This medical-grade formula does more than just protect, it works overtime to defend your skin against the aging effects of sunlight, blue light, infrared rays, and pollution.

Here’s why we love it: Powerful sun protection

This ultra-lightweight, water-and-sweat-resistant sunscreen provides powerful broad-spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, and blue light, while also offering a matte, sheer finish that never feels greasy.

It’s perfect for daily wear, especially for active clients or those who spend time outdoors. With added antioxidants and skin barrier support, it not only defends against environmental damage but also leaves the skin feeling smooth, soft, and shine-free. It’s the sunscreen we reach for again and again.

Lightweight, Sheer, and Non-Greasy

Let’s be honest... Most people skip sunscreen because of the way it feels. Thick, greasy, or chalky formulas can make it hard to commit to daily use. That’s why we love ZO’s sunscreen products because they blends seamlessly and dry down without leaving a greasy film or white cast.

They wear beautifully under makeup or on bare skin, making it an easy final step in your morning routine.

Packed with Skin-Loving Ingredients

This isn’t just sun protection. It’s skincare.

The formula contains antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals caused by UV exposure and pollution. It also supports the skin barrier with ingredients that hydrate, soothe, and improve texture over time.

This means you’re not just preventing sunburn—you’re actively helping your skin stay healthy, radiant, and resilient.

For All Skin Types, All Year Long

Whether you have oily, dry, sensitive, or combination skin, this sunscreen works for everyone. It’s also fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores or irritate your skin.

Plus, it’s a must-have year-round—yes, even in winter or on cloudy days. UV rays can penetrate clouds and glass, so daily protection is key to preserving youthful skin and preventing long-term damage.

Available In-Store at Let’s Face It Med Spa

You can find ZO Daily Sheer Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50 right here at our med spa in Cookeville, Tennessee. Come by to test it out, ask questions, or let us help you build a full skincare routine that fits your lifestyle.