Let's Glow Responsibly- Sunscreen Tips in Honor of Skin Cancer Awareness Month

At Sweet Mana, we're all about radiant skin, nourishing rituals, and wellness from the inside out. But did you know that the glow you love can come with serious risks if you're not protecting your skin from the sun? May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and it's the perfect time to talk about one of the simplest, most powerful ways to care for your skin— daily application of sunscreen.

☀️ Why Sunscreen Matters

Sunlight brings life, but too much unprotected exposure can be harmful. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, yet it's also one of the most preventable. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun (and tanning beds!) damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to premature aging, sunspots (aka- hyperpigmentation) and yes—skin cancer.

It's not just a beach-day essential; it's an everyday skincare superhero. Using sunscreen daily (yes, even when it's cloudy) is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce your risk of cellular damage. Just like brushing your teeth or drinking water, applying SPF should be part of your daily ritual—an act of love for your future skin, and self.

💧 What SPF Should You Use In A Sunscreen?

For everyday use, dermatologists recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. Whether you're spending the day at the beach, hiking your favorite trail, or just running errands—your skin deserves that layer of protection. Dermatologists recommend reapplying every 1.5 -2 hours, or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.

Look for mineral-based options with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for a healthier choice. These are reef-safe too, which eliminate coral reef bleaching and structural damage. When in doubt, look at baby sunblock labels, as many of these use zinc and titanium dioxide, which are kind to both your skin and the planet—just like everything we stand for at Sweet Mana.

🌴 What Makes a Sunscreen Reef-Safe (and Hawaii-Approved)

A reef-safe sunscreen is one that does not contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been shown to contribute to coral bleaching and damage marine ecosystems. These ingredients can disrupt the growth and reproduction of coral reefs, even in small amounts. For this reason, Hawaii has banned the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, and travelers are encouraged—often required—to use reef-safe options made with mineral-based active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These natural minerals sit on the skin’s surface to block UV rays without washing off into the ocean and harming marine life. Choosing a reef-safe sunscreen isn’t just a travel requirement—it’s a simple way to help preserve fragile and beautiful coral reefs for future generations.

🌿 Sweet Mana’s Commitment to Sun-Safe Beauty

At Sweet Mana, we're passionate about blending beauty with wellness. That's why we encourage our community to embrace habits that nourish body and spirit—including our sunscreen tips. Even though we don't offer our own branded sunscreen at this time, we want to encourage our community to incorporate sunscreen with our other skincare products. For example, our Mana Mists are a wonderful way to sooth and hydrate sun-kissed skin, with organic aloe vera juice and humectant ingredients. Enjoying a day at the beach or out in nature doesn't need to come at a cost. Ee hope you'll take a moment to put on your SPF and protect the beautiful skin you're in.

Sunscreen Tips For Staying Sun-Safe:

• Reapply sunscreen every 1.5- 2 hours, especially if you're swimming or sweating.

• Don’t forget easy-to-miss spots like your ears, neck, hands, and tops of your feet.

• Wear hats, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing when spending extended time outdoors.

• Make SPF part of your morning routine—before makeup, before coffee.

At Sweet Mana, we believe skincare is sacred. It’s a ritual. And like any ritual, it should be intentional. Adding sunscreen to your morning routine is a small act with huge impact—not just for how your skin looks, but for your long-term health.

Pair your SPF with our hydrating Pineapple Glow Facial Mist Elixir or your favorite Sweet Mana body butter for a nourishing, protective layer and glow that honors your skin, before or after sun.

💛 Spread the Word

Skin Cancer Awareness Month is about more than just prevention—it’s about education and empowerment. Encourage your loved ones to get annual skin checks, wear hats and sunglasses, and make sunscreen a non-negotiable. Because glowing skin is beautiful—but safe glowing skin is powerful.

This May, let’s love the skin we’re in—by protecting it, honoring it, and giving it what it truly deserves. A Sun Lover's Guide To Sunscreen with share more insights on this important topic.

With love and safe sunlight,

Sweet Mana