Summer is a beautiful contradiction: longer days and warmer weather invite us outdoors—but the same sunshine that lifts our spirits can also do serious damage to our skin. At Vellum Wellness, we believe in protecting your skin without sacrificing your glow. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to stay sun-safe, hydrated, and balanced—inside and out.
Why sun protection matters more than you think
UV exposure is responsible for up to 80% of visible skin aging. That means fine lines, dark spots, uneven texture, and sagging skin are often the result of accumulated sun damage, not just the passage of time. And while sunburn may seem like a temporary discomfort, repeated overexposure increases the risk of long-term conditions like hyperpigmentation and skin cancer.
But don’t worry, this isn’t a fear-based post. It’s an empowerment-based one.
The truth is: suncare is self-care, and protecting your skin is one of the most loving things you can do for yourself.
1. Choose the right sunscreen and use it correctly
Sunscreen isn’t just for beach days. It should be part of your daily skincare ritual, no matter the weather. Look for:
- Broad-spectrum protection (protects against both UVA and UVB rays)
- SPF 30 or higher
- Mineral-based formulas (with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) for sensitive skin
And don’t forget: reapply every two hours, especially if you’re swimming, sweating, or spending extended time outdoors.
Pro tip: Keep a mini SPF stick in your bag or car for quick top-ups on the go.
2. Don’t skip the “forgotten” zones
It’s easy to overlook certain areas when applying SPF, but these zones are especially vulnerable:
- Ears
- Lips
- Scalp (use a powder, spray, or wear a hat)
- Tops of feet
- Back of the knees
- Hands and décolletage
We recommend making SPF application a mindful practice by taking a full minute to really connect with your body and cover every part that might get kissed by the sun.
3. Layer in physical protection
Even with the best sunscreen, physical barriers add an extra layer of defense:
- A wide-brimmed hat
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing
- UPF-rated fabrics for outdoor workouts or hikes
UPF 50 clothing blocks up to 98% of harmful rays and is a great tool for anyone spending hours in direct sun.
4. Hydration is non-negotiable
Sun exposure depletes your skin’s moisture, which can leave it looking dull, dry, or irritated. Hydrate on all fronts:
- Internally: Drink water throughout the day—more than you think you need
- Topically: Apply hydrating oils and mists post-sun (we love Lavender, Jojoba, and Almond)
- Nutritionally: Snack on water-rich fruits like watermelon, cucumber, and berries
Hydrated skin is healthy skin, and it holds onto that summer glow longer.
5. After-Sun recovery is just as important
After a long day outdoors, your skin needs time to cool, calm and recover. Start with a cool shower to remove sweat, sunscreen, salt, and pollutants. Then:
- Apply a calming, restorative oil like Lavender or Ylang Ylang
- Avoid actives like retinol or strong exfoliants for at least 24 hours
- Drink herbal teas like chamomile or mint to soothe from within
Post-sun care is where real skin healing happens. It’s also a beautiful time to slow down and reconnect with your body.
Bonus: the mind-skin connection
Here’s something most skincare guides don’t talk about: how the sun affects your mood—and how scent can help balance it.
Being in the sun can lift serotonin levels, but overexposure can leave us feeling drained, irritated, or anxious. That’s why we recommend incorporating aromachology into your summer routine:
- Use uplifting oils like Grapefruit or Mandarin in the morning
- Wind down with grounding blends like Lympha or Lavender in the evening
- Add essential oils to a diffuser after a day outdoors to help your nervous system reset
Your skin and your emotions are deeply connected. Summer suncare should support both.
Our favourite tools for summer wellness
- Carrara Aroma Diffuser – Clean, calming, and perfect for summer nights in.
- Dreamscape Diffuser Blend – A grounding blend of lavender, ylang ylang, and cedarwood.
- Jojoba & Grapeseed Oils – Light, nourishing, and ideal for post-sun care.
Final thoughts
Summer is meant to be enjoyed—but it’s also a season that asks for mindfulness. A few intentional steps can make all the difference in how your skin looks, how your body feels, and how your energy holds up over time.
At Vellum, we believe that suncare is a daily act of devotion—a quiet way to honour the skin you're in. So go ahead: soak in the season, stay protected, and let your inner glow lead the way.