Is Your Sunscreen Doing Its Job?

Introduction: Not All Sunscreens Are the Same

In sunny Kailua, sunscreen is a must.

But just using sunscreen isn’t enough. Some sunscreens don’t protect you like you think they do.

Many of our patients at Hawaiian Islands Dermatology ask,“Am I using the right sunscreen?”

Let’s break it down in a simple way, so you can keep your skin safe and glowing.

How Sunscreen Protects Your Skin

🔎 Focus Keyword: Best sunscreen in Kailua

Sunscreen works by blocking or absorbing the sun’s rays.

There are two types of rays you need to know:

• UVA: These rays age your skin and cause wrinkles

• UVB: These rays burn your skin and can lead to cancer

Good sunscreen protects you from both.

Look for this on the label:

Broad Spectrum SPF 30 or higher

Common Sunscreen Mistakes We See

Even when people use sunscreen, they often don’t use it the right way.

Here are some common problems:

• Not using enough (you need a shot glass full for your body)

• Forgetting your ears, neck, or feet

• Only using it once (you need to reapply every 2 hours)

• Using expired products

• Picking a low SPF (SPF 15 is not enough in Hawaii)

👨‍⚕️ Want help picking the right sunscreen? Visit our Sun Protection Page

Which Sunscreen Is Best for Kailua Weather?

The sun in Kailua is strong all year. That means you need a sunscreen that can handle:

• Sweat: Choose water-resistant formulas

• Humidity: Go for lightweight lotions or gels

• Beach days: Look for reef-safe sunscreen to protect our ocean

Here are some great picks:

• Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (great for sensitive skin)

• Fragrance-free for people with allergies

• Mineral sunscreens for better long-term skin health

  

Can Sunscreen Prevent Skin Cancer?

Yes. Sunscreen is one of the best tools to lower your risk.

But it only works if you use it every day, even on cloudy days.

It’s not just about sunburn. Skin cancer can show up years later.

We check for it at every skin exam, even in places you can’t see.

Need a skin check? Book a full body skin screening

Conclusion: Protect Your Skin, Protect Your Future

☀️ What to remember:

• Use Broad Spectrum SPF 30 or higher

• Reapply every 2 hours

• Wear sunscreen every day, even if you’re not at the beach

• Pick the right type for Hawaii’s heat and sun

🧴 Want Help Picking the Right Sunscreen?

We can recommend the best products and show you how to apply them.If you’ve had sunburns or dark spots, let’s check them out.

📍 Hawaiian Islands Dermatology, Kailua

📅 Book your visit today

📞 Call (808) 263-3233

👉 See our guide to sun safety