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Why Sunscreen Matters, No Matter Your Age
Sun damage adds up over a lifetime. Repeated exposure raises your risk for squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, while sunburns — even just a few in childhood — significantly increase your risk for basal cell carcinoma. And before you think, “It’s just basal cell, it’s the good cancer,” Miller wants to push back on that.
“There is no such thing as a good cancer,” he says. “I’ve had patients die from basal cell carcinoma.” He also notes that although squamous cell carcinoma kills more people each year than melanoma, that’s largely because it’s so much more common.
The good news is, it’s never too late to start protecting yourself. “Research and studies show that as you protect your skin, you reduce the risk of further skin cancers,” Miller says. That means changing your habits at 50, 60, or 70 still makes a difference.
Choose the Right Sunscreen
Miller recommends at least SPF 30 for everyday use. Fair-skinned or red-haired? Go higher. But he says the type of sunscreen matters just as much as the number.
There are two main types: chemical blockers and mineral blockers (zinc and titanium). Miller’s preference is zinc. “By far, zinc outperforms all the other sunblocks,” he says. Look for “mineral,” “zinc,” or “titanium” on the label. If it just says “broad spectrum,” it’s likely a chemical formula.
Worried about looking like you’ve painted your nose white? Modern zinc sunscreens rub in clearly, and many brands now offer tinted versions for a range of skin tones.
One more thing to watch for is avobenzone. It’s the most common allergen in sunscreens, and it breaks down quickly in heat and sunlight, losing its effectiveness. So don’t store sunscreen in a hot car or on a sunny dashboard. And check your expiration dates, since the active ingredients in creams and liquids break down over time.
How to Apply It and What People Miss
Timing matters. Put sunscreen on at least 20 minutes before you get in the water or break a sweat. If you jump in right after applying, it’s essentially gone.
For swimming or sweaty activities, reapply every two hours and use a formula labeled “sport” or “water resistant.”
Cream sunscreens tend to work better than sprays because they go on thicker. That said, Miller likes spray for one specific spot, the scalp. “I can’t tell you how many cancers I’ve taken off on the scalp,” he says. In women especially, the part of the hair gets constant sun exposure with zero protection.
Other spots people miss include ears (front, back, and top), calves, and the backs of hands. And if you live or work outdoors, Miller says even a cowboy hat and long sleeves provide significant protection.
Sunscreen for Kids and Everyone
Sunscreen is safe for all ages. Zinc-based formulas are especially gentle for babies and young children. Since most sun damage happens in childhood, earlier is better. For little ones who aren’t ready for sunscreen, shade and UV-protective clothing work great.
For unconvinced teens, Miller has a simple pitch. “Hey, look — you want to stay looking young and beautiful? Protect your skin from the sun.”
It’s OK to Enjoy the Sun
Miller isn’t here to ban sunshine. He notes that sunlight lifts your mood, and that vitamin D deficiency is a concern for a lot of people. His personal rule is to reach for sunscreen or protective clothing whenever he’ll be outside more than 20 minutes. Under that, he’s not stressed about it.
The goal is balance. Protect yourself consistently, skip the baby oil, and don’t let being perfect be the enemy of taking care of your skin.
