Sunscreen, Sunscreen, Sunscreen: Why It’s the Ultimate Glow-Up Essential

Let me say it louder for the people in the back: Sunscreen. If I could only recommend one skincare product to use every single day, rain or shine, winter or summer, it would be sunscreen. This isn’t just aesthetic advice—it’s health advice, it’s longevity advice, and it’s one of the easiest, cheapest ways to preserve your skin.

Yes, even on cloudy days. Yes, even if you’re indoors most of the time. Yes, even if your skin is darker. And yes, especially if you live somewhere with high elevation or spend time driving to and from work daily.

I’ll be honest. I’ve been guilty of skipping sunscreen because it was cloudy, I was rushing, the bottle wasn’t right in front of me, or I didn’t feel like looking ashy. But now? Now sunscreen is part of my daily ritual, as essential as brushing my teeth. And if I forget in the morning (which is rare these days), I have a backup bottle in my purse.

Let’s break down why this one step is non-negotiable.

1. UV Rays Don’t Take a Day Off

Clouds might block visible sunlight, but don’t block those sneaky UV rays (UVA and UVB). Did you know that up to 80% of UV rays can still go through cloud cover? That’s why people can still get sunburned on overcast days. UVA rays are especially tricky—they dig deep into your skin and cause things like:

● Premature aging

● Fine lines and wrinkles

● Hyperpigmentation

● Skin laxity

UVB rays, meanwhile, are more about sunburns and skin cancer. And get this—these rays are present even in cold weather. So, whether it’s sunny or chilly, sunscreen is a must.

2. Elevation = Greater Exposure

Here in Canada, especially in elevated regions like Calgary, UV exposure increases by about 10–12% for every 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) in elevation. That’s a lot of extra radiation hitting your skin, even if it doesn’t feel hot. If you ski, hike, or live in a mountain area, your sunscreen game must be strong.

3. The Commute Tan Is Real

I call it the “driver’s tan.” If you drive to work or spend significant time commuting—even just running errands—you are still exposed to UVA rays through your car windows. These rays don’t cause sunburns but do cause long-term damage. It’s not uncommon to see more pigmentation and aging on the left side of the face (for North American drivers) because of this very reason.

Sunscreen every morning isn’t just about outdoor days at the beach—it’s about the daily grind.

4. Skin is Your Glow. Protect It.

Let’s get real: your skin is your glow. You can’t fake proper skin health. Yes, we love our peels, microneedling, facials, and lasers, but none of them matter if you’re not protecting the investment with proper SPF.

Think of sunscreen as the sealant over a fresh coat of paint. Would you spend time and money repainting your home and then leave the walls exposed to the elements? No! The same goes for your face.

5. Get Your Kids in the Habit Early

In our house, sunscreen is always within reach—whether it’s a spray or cream. My kids are still little, but they’ve got the routine down. The trick is starting early. Once those good habits are in place, they become part of everyday life. It’s all about showing them healthy habits so they pick them up naturally. Skin health starts young, and as parents, we can guide them along the way.

6. Don’t Waste It—Use What You’ve Got

I’m a skincare junkie, I’ll admit it. I have a drawer (okay, maybe two) full of skincare. And yes, some of it is from last year. If it’s been stored properly—away from direct sunlight and in a cool area—it’s usually still effective. The key is to look at the expiration date and the consistency. Use it if it hasn’t separated, smells normal, and the SPF is still intact!

And seriously, don’t let sunscreen go to waste. Dig through your stash and use it up before it expires. Because honestly, the best sunscreen is the one you use.

7. So Many Options, So Little Excuse

Gone are the days when sunscreen felt like a sticky, chalky mess. These days, we’ve got:

● Creams for dry skin

● Gel formulas for oily or acne-prone skin

● Tinted SPFS for added coverage

● Sprays for kids and hard-to-reach spots

● Sticks for on-the-go touch-ups

● Sunscreens in primers, foundations, and powders

No matter your skin type or routine, there’s a sunscreen out there that fits like a glove. No excuses left, my friend.

8. Life Hack: Keep Sunscreen Everywhere

Here’s my little trick: I keep sunscreen in my purse, my office, my gym bag, and even in my kids’ backpacks. Reapplying throughout the day is key, especially if you’re outside for hours. One application in the morning won’t cut it if you’re still out when the sun’s going down.

Just a heads up—don’t store your sunscreen in the car if you live somewhere with extreme heat or cold (hello, Canadian winters and summers!). High temperatures can break down the active ingredients, making them less effective.

Final Thoughts: Sunscreen Is Self-Respect

Sunscreen is more than just a skincare product—it’s a daily habit. It’s a symbol of self-care and self-awareness. As someone who’s been in the aesthetic world for decades, trust me when I say this: the people who age gracefully, who have glowing, resilient skin? They wear their SPF. 

Every. Single. Day.

Don’t wait for sun damage in your 30s, 40s, or 50s. Protect your glow now.

One last time (because you know I mean it): Sunscreen. Sunscreen. Sunscreen.

To your health and radiance,  

Dr. Tomi Mitchell  

Founder, Bonsai Medical Aesthetics