Summer is getting closer, and for many of us that means one essential item quietly moves to the top of our beauty routine: sunscreen. Most people already know the usual reasons for using it. Prevention of premature wrinkles, protection from sunspots, and maintaining an even skin tone are often the first things that come to mind. But I also think it is important not to fall into the trap of becoming overly afraid of the sun or treating it like an enemy. Sunlight is a natural part of our lives, and our bodies need it more than we sometimes acknowledge.

Vitamin D is a perfect example. It is vital for our overall health, supporting everything from our immunity to our mood. And while supplements can help, sunlight remains the most natural and effective source. That is why I believe people should not be terrified of being in the sun. You can absolutely spend a short amount of time outside without sunscreen. The key is understanding your skin tone and sensitivity. For lighter complexions, this safe window can be somewhere around fifteen to twenty minutes. It also helps to avoid the strongest sunlight hours between late morning and early afternoon.

Speaking from my own experience, my skin tends to develop pigmentation quite easily. Because of that, I prefer to use sunscreen daily with a high level of protection, usually SPF 50. It gives me peace of mind and helps me enjoy being outdoors without worrying about long-term damage. I treat it simply as a part of my routine rather than something restrictive or complicated. I still love the sun, I still love being outside, and I try to find that balance where I can benefit from sunlight without putting my skin at unnecessary risk.

The conversation about sunscreen often becomes extreme on both sides. Some people avoid the sun almost completely, while others refuse to use SPF at all. As with many things in life, the healthiest path is somewhere in the middle. Listen to your skin, learn how it reacts, and adjust your habits accordingly. Sun exposure can be both healing and harmful depending on how you treat it, so awareness is the most reliable guide.

I am always curious how others approach this topic. Do you apply sunscreen every day? Do you reapply during the day, especially in summer? Or do you prefer a more intuitive approach depending on where you are and what you are doing?