If I Had to Choose Just One Product…

April 2026

One of the top questions I get asked is If I could only have one skincare product, what would it be?

The answer is always the same… sunscreen!

Sun protection is my love language, because like Skin Salvation Aesthetics and Wellness Med Spa; it’s dedicated to both aesthetics and wellness. Helping maintain elasticity, collagen, texture, and tone and preventing premature aging and fine lines, wrinkles, sunspots, and most importantly, skin cancer. Added Bonus: the proper sunscreen can extend the results of many skin treatments keeping you looking and feeling your best even longer.

SUNSCREEN WARS

Let’s get ‘reel’ and call social media what it is…  online shopping.

A constant bombardment of ads and influencers cashing in by convincing you to buy products. Some you don’t even need with claims that aren’t always true and the  rise of AI isn’t helping.

One of their clever tricks this time of year is ramping up sunscreen wars pitting SPF and sun protection products against each.

Remember, they’re salespeople, not scientists and no matter how authentic or convincing they seem, they’re getting paid. Don’t worry, I’m here to help read between the hype.

TRUTH VS TREND

Let’s demystify the internet’s favorite cage matches: “clean”, “mineral vs. chemical”, and “spray” sunscreens.

 “Clean” / “Non-toxic”

These are feel-good terms not scientific ones. Branding choices, not medical truths.

There is no credible evidence that approved sunscreen ingredients are harmful in the way social media sometimes suggests.

Meanwhile, UV damage? Very real. Very proven.

Takeaway:  If a brand is selling fear, they might not be selling facts. Always worth researching claims before purchasing products.

Mineral vs. Chemical

Mineral (a.k.a. physical) - Ingredients: zinc oxide, titanium dioxide. Works by reflecting/scattering UV rays. Best for sensitive skin, post-procedure skin

Chemical - Ingredients: avobenzone, octocrylene, etc. Works by absorbing UV and converting it to heat. Best for: lightweight feel, seamless wear.

Takeaway:  Chemical sunscreens often provide better UVA + UVB coverage. (Stanford Medicine) Mineral sunscreens are often gentler—but not automatically “better.” (Consumer Reports)

Plot Twist:Many “mineral-only” sunscreens actually contain chemical boosters anyway. (UNSW Sites)

Spray

Convenient? Yes   Reliable? Debatable. They’re easy to underapply, uneven, and often more airborne than on your skin.

Takeaway: Spay sunscreens are helpful and effective as touch-ups, but not as your primary defense.

THE NON-NEGOTIABLES

Here’s where dermatologists, researchers, and public health experts agree.

Sunscreen prevents skin cancer. Period. Daily use has been shown to reduce melanoma risk by up to 50%. (The Skin Cancer Foundation)

Broad-spectrum is everything.

You need protection from both UVB (burning) UVA (aging, pigmentation, deeper damage—even through windows) (Good Housekeeping)

SPF 30+ is your baseline.

Anything less is basically a suggestion, not protection. (Children's Hospital of Philadelphia)

Takeaway: The most effective sunscreen is a  broad-spectrum with SPF 30 or higher. You don’t need a perfect sunscreen; you need a strong reliable habit.

UPGRADES

Water resistant - Important if you’re going to be sweating, shvitzing, or swimming.

A zinc-based option is recommended for sensitive skin and to use after skin treatments and procedures.

SUNLESS

You don’t have to sacrifice your skin to be a sunkissed siren, golden girl, or bronzed babe.

Tinted sunscreens and moisturizers with broad-spectrum protection have a come a long way in looks, feels, and wearable with or without makeup - patient favorite

There are also a wide array of tan wipes, lotions, sprays, and mousses available these days.

ACCESSORIES

Hats, visors, and quality sunglasses to protect your eyes and contact lenses are always recommended.

Let’s Glow!

Jamie