When cooler weather arrives and days get shorter, many people put sunscreen back in the cabinet. But here’s the truth: your skin still needs daily protection in the fall. UV rays don’t disappear when it’s cloudy, chilly, or less sunny. In fact, UVA rays—the ones responsible for premature aging, collagen breakdown, and DNA damage—are present all year long, silently affecting your skin whether you’re outside or sitting by a window.
If you’ve been tempted to skip sunscreen this season, here’s why it’s a mistake—and how to choose the right one for your skin type.
SPF Explained: What the Numbers Really Mean
SPF, or “sun protection factor,” measures how well sunscreen protects against UVB rays, the rays that cause visible burns and pigmentation.
-
SPF 30 → blocks about 97% of UVB rays
-
SPF 50 → blocks about 98%
While higher numbers sound more powerful, the difference beyond SPF 50 is minimal. What really matters is how much you apply and how often you reapply.
Pro tip: Use two finger lengths for your face and neck, and a shot glass amount for your body when wearing swimwear.
Why Broad Spectrum Matters More Than Higher SPF
It’s easy to assume that the higher the SPF, the better the protection. But SPF only tells half the story because it measures UVB protection (burns) and says nothing about UVA protection (aging, DNA damage, skin cancer).
Here’s the key difference:
-
UVB rays → Cause redness, sunburn, and visible damage
-
UVA rays → Cause wrinkles, sagging, dark spots, and invisible long-term harm
A sunscreen labelled “broad spectrum” protects you from both UVA and UVB rays. Without this label, even an SPF 100 sunscreen might protect you from burning but still leave you vulnerable to premature aging and DNA damage.
That’s why dermatologists recommend choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+ you’ll wear daily, instead of chasing the highest SPF number.
Pro tip: All of our Coola sunscreens are broad spectrum, reef-safe, and 70%+ organic — so you’re covered on every front.
Mineral vs. Chemical: Which Sunscreen Works for You?
Sunscreens fall into two main categories:
-
Mineral (Physical): Uses zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to reflect rays. Best for sensitive, post-treatment, or easily irritated skin.
-
Chemical: Uses active filters like avobenzone or octocrylene to absorb rays. Lightweight, invisible, and great for active lifestyles.
Both are safe and effective when used correctly. Your choice depends on your skin needs, lifestyle, and personal preference.
What About Blue Light?
Blue light (HEV light) from screens and sunlight can speed up aging, worsen pigmentation, and stress your skin. Some sunscreens are now fortified with iron oxides or antioxidants to protect against this often-ignored culprit. If you spend hours on screens, look for tinted sunscreens with HEV defense.
When Should You Apply Sunscreen in the Fall?
Every. Single. Day.
-
Indoors or outdoors
-
Cloudy or sunny
-
Spring, summer, fall, and winter
Apply sunscreen as the final step of your morning skincare routine and reapply every 2–3 hours if you’re outdoors, sweating, or swimming.
Expert-Recommended Sunscreens for Every Skin Type
Here are expert-approved favorites:
Sensitive or Post-Treatment Skin:
Oily or Acne-Prone Skin
Dry or Dehydrated Skin
Pigmentation or Melasma
Mature or Aging Skin
Active or Outdoor Lifestyle
And don’t forget your body! Explore our full Coola sunscreen collection for reef-safe, broad-spectrum protection enriched with plant cell actives.
Bottom Line: Don’t Skip Sunscreen This Fall
There’s no serum, moisturizer, or facial that can replace sunscreen. It protects your skin from aging, damage, and disease while preserving the results of every other product and treatment you invest in.
This fall, keep your sunscreen front and center. Your skin will thank you—not just today, but years from now.
Shop Broad-Spectrum Protection
Ready to upgrade your fall routine?
Explore our full range of Coola sunscreens — organic, reef-safe, and always broad spectrum.