Glow All Year: Your Ultimate Guide to 365 Days of SPF Protection

spoiler alert: SPF isn't taking a vacation when summer ends – and neither should your protection game. (get into the chat with The Drop's recommendations)

By: Stasia

1/5/20255 min read

Think SPF is just for summer? Think again! This skincare superhero deserves a permanent spot in your daily routine — no matter the season.

Many people only reach for sunscreen when heading to the beach or during hot summer days. However, protecting your skin from harmful UV rays isn't just a seasonal consideration—it's a year-round necessity. Here's why you should make SPF an essential part of your daily skincare routine, regardless of the season or weather.

Understanding UV Radiation

Let's talk about the dynamic duo you never asked for: UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are like that summer fling – they show up strong during peak seasons and sunny days. But UVA rays? They're the clingy ex that never gets the hint – showing up year-round, sliding into your DMs (aka your skin) through clouds, windows, and yes, even your favorite outfit. These persistent rays aren't just annoying – they're the sneaky culprits behind premature aging, skin damage, and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Winter Isn't Your Get-Out-of-SPF-Free Card

"But it's cloudy!" Sorry bestie, but that's not the flex you think it is. Those UV rays are still doing their thing even when you can't see the sun living its best life. Here's the shocking plot twist: up to 80% of UV rays are out there doing the most even through cloud cover. And if you're hitting the slopes? That gorgeous snow is basically a natural reflector, bouncing up to 80% of those rays right back at your face. Mountain girlies, listen up – for every 1,000 feet you climb, UV exposure gets 5% more intense. The audacity, right?

Indoor Girlies Aren't Off the Hook

Working that WFH life (of office life)? Don't think you're exempt from the SPF chat. Those UVA rays are basically the ultimate stalker – following you through windows during your commute, creeping through your office view, and yes, even during your hard-earned window seat on that flight to paradise. The damage might be playing the long game, but trust – it's adding up faster than your online shopping cart.

The Ultimate Anti-Aging Hack

Let's spill the real tea – daily SPF is literally the best anti-aging product you're probably sleeping on. The science girlies have receipts: people who make SPF their ride-or-die showed 24% less skin aging than the occasional users. Name another product that delivers those kinds of results – I'll wait.

Finding Your SPF Soulmate

The experts are coming in hot with these non-negotiables:

Broad-spectrum protection (because we're blocking ALL the toxic rays)
At least SPF 30 for your regular degular days
Level up to SPF 50+ when you're serving main character energy outdoors
Reset that protection every 2 hours (or after swimming/sweating – we don't make the rules)

Shop Our Favorite Drops 🛍️

Fenty Skin Hydra VIZOR Mineral SPF 30 Refillable Moisturizer ($40) (Click to shop)

Hydration level: 💧💧💧💧💧
The Tea: Rihanna really ate with this one – a mineral SPF that doesn't leave you looking like Casper? We love to see it
Key moisture heroes: Kalahari Melon (nature's water bottle), Niacinamide (the do-it-all queen), Hyaluronic Acid (hydration's MVP), and Aloe (the OG soother)
- Why we're obsessed:
  - Zero white cast on ALL skin tones (finally!)
  - Feels expensive but actually works
  - That dewy-not-greasy finish we've been manifesting
  - No pilling under makeup (bye-bye, SPF balls)
  - Actually enjoyable to reapply (a literal first)
- Perfect for:
  - The glazed donut girlies
  - Dry skin besties tired of crusty SPFs
  - Anyone who wants their protection with a side of luxury
  - Makeup lovers who can't deal with pilling
  - People who are tired of looking ashy
Extra Tips:
- Let it sink in for 60 seconds before going in with makeup
- Two fingers worth for full protection
- Don't sleep on the refills – better for your wallet and the planet ♻️

IT Cosmetics Hello Sunshine SPF 40 ($35)(Click to Shop)

Hydration level: 💧💧💧💧
The Tea: Finally, an SPF that said "why not both?" to skincare and sun protection
Key moisture heroes: Hyaluronic Acid (the hydration plug), Collagen (plumping bestie), Peptides (anti-aging's group chat), and Vitamin E (the antioxidant icon)
Consider this your primer's new BFF – grips makeup like your phone during a gossip sesh
Why we're obsessed:
- The glow is giving "born with it" energy
- No white cast drama (we love that for us)
- Plays well with sensitive skin
- Actually keeps you hydrated past lunch
- That subtle blurring effect? Chef's kiss
Perfect for:
- The "no makeup-makeup" crew
- Anyone chasing that glass skin dream
- Dry skin girlies who hate heavy creams
- Multitaskers who want their SPF to work overtime
- People who can't with that sunscreen smell

Extra Tips:

Warm between fingers before applying for the perfect blend
Perfect base for that clean girl aesthetic
A little goes a long way (your wallet says thank you)

EltaMD UV Clear Facial SPF 46 ($44)(Click to Shop)

Hydration level: 💧💧💧
The Tea: The dermatologist holy grail that's worth every penny of its
luxury price tag
Key moisture heroes: Hyaluronic Acid (hydration royalty), Niacinamide
(the overachiever), Lactic Acid (gentle exfoliation queen), Vitamin E (protective bestie)
Acne Friendly: Say less – this won't trigger your next breakout saga
Why we're obsessed:
- The clarity it gives? Unmatched
- Zero fragrance drama
- That perfect balance of moisture without shine
- The definition of "worth the splurge"
- Dermatologist approved (like, actually)
- Doubles as your morning moisturizer
Perfect for:
- The skincare girlies who've done their research
- Anyone dealing with acne but needs moisture
- Sensitive skin besties
- People who want medical-grade results
- Those who understand the investment