Summer in Jacksonville means sunshine, beach days, and plenty of time outdoors, but it also means your skin is working overtime. Between the intense UV rays, humid heat, and long hours spent in the sun, it’s easy to forget that sunburns are literal red flags that your skin is under attack. At Coastal Dermatology, we see the effects of summer sun every year, from painful burns to early signs of skin cancer that could’ve been prevented with the proper care.
Whether heading out for a weekend on the St. Johns River or just walking your dog around the block, protecting your skin in the Florida sun is serious business. Thankfully, our dermatologists know all the practical summer skin care tips and tricks to keep your skin health in pristine condition all season long.
Why Summer Skin Care Deserves Its Own Rules
When it comes to skin care, not all seasons are created equal, especially in Florida’s summer months. While protecting your skin year-round is essential, summer requires an extra layer of defense.
UV Rays Are More Intense in Summer
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the leading cause of premature skin aging and skin cancer. While UV exposure happens every day, its intensity peaks during the summer months, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is at its highest. In fact, UV levels are about three times higher in summer than in winter in most parts of the U.S., which means you burn faster and do more damage even with brief sun exposure.
If you live in Jacksonville or Ponte Vedra Beach, you’re even more at risk. Florida’s proximity to the equator naturally means higher year-round UV intensity, and that risk ramps up fast in the summer. Plus, everyday surroundings like sand, water, and light-colored pavement reflect ultraviolet UV rays, increasing your exposure even when you’re under partial shade or wearing a hat. On cloudy days, many people let their guard down—but up to 80% of UV rays still penetrate cloud cover, making overexposure a real threat.
Understanding the Real Risks: It’s Not Just a Sunburn
A sunburn is a clear sign that UV radiation has penetrated your skin and damaged the DNA inside your cells. This damage triggers inflammation, pain, and redness—your body’s way of responding to injury. But the real concern lies in what happens beneath the surface. Over time, cumulative UV damage can lead to:
- Premature Aging: UV radiation breaks down collagen and elastin in the skin, leading to wrinkles, sagging, rough texture, and sunspots.
- Hyperpigmentation: Sun exposure can worsen dark spots, melasma, and uneven skin tone.
- Skin Cancer: Repeated UV damage increases the risk of all types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and the deadliest of all—melanoma.
Heat & Humidity Can Worsen the Damage
Jacksonville’s hot, humid summers bring their own set of skin challenges, even beyond UV exposure. High humidity causes the skin to produce more sweat and oil, which can clog pores, trap bacteria, and lead to breakouts. If you’re prone to acne or rosacea, the heat can trigger flare-ups, redness, and irritation.
Meanwhile, extreme heat can weaken the skin’s natural barrier, the outermost layer that locks in moisture and protects against environmental stress. Once that barrier is compromised, your skin is more vulnerable to dehydration, dry skin, increased sensitivity, and more.
Daily Sun Protection Habits That Make a Difference
Good sun protection goes beyond remembering to pack sunscreen for a beach day. It’s about creating small, sustainable habits that protect your skin daily.
Reapplying Sunscreen
Most people are good about applying sunscreen in the morning, but forget that its effectiveness fades quickly. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours if you’re outside, and immediately after swimming or heavy sweating.
Try setting a recurring alarm on your phone, or keep a mini bottle of SPF in your bag, car, or desk. For makeup wearers, consider a spray or powder sunscreen for easy reapplication without ruining your look. And remember, spots like your ears, neck, scalp, and the backs of your hands are just as vulnerable as your face.
UPF Clothing
If you’re not already wearing protective clothing, UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing, summer is the time to start. Unlike regular fabrics, UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor)-rated materials are designed to block UV rays from reaching your skin, and they don’t wash off or need reapplying like sunscreen does. For people who are out and about during peak sun hours, UPF clothing adds an effortless layer of protection that works without you having to think about it.
Additional Habits to Include in Your Routine
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face, ears, and neck
- Choose polarized sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection to protect your eyes and the skin around them
- Use lip balm with SPF to prevent skin damage on your lips
- Avoid tanning beds, as they emit harmful UVA rays and significantly increase skin cancer risk
- Stay hydrated to help your skin maintain its natural barrier and recover from sun exposure
- Rinse off chlorine or saltwater after swimming and reapply sunscreen to avoid increased sensitivity or irritation
- Add a UV-blocking window film to your car or office windows
- Stay in the shade when possible to avoid overexposure to the sun
What to Look For in a Sunscreen (& What to Avoid)
SPF stands for “Sun Protection Factor” and it only refers to UVB protection—the rays responsible for burning the skin. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. Higher SPFs may offer marginally better protection, but only if they’re used and reapplied correctly.
What’s even more important is choosing a broad spectrum sunscreen, which protects against both UVA or UVB rays to reduce your risk of sunburn, aging, and preventing skin cancer.
Pro Tip: Use at least SPF 15, though SPF 30 or higher is best.
Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens
There are two main types of sunscreen: mineral (also called physical) and chemical. Mineral sunscreens use ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to form a a physical barrier on the skin that reflects UV rays. They start working immediately and tend to be gentler, making them a great option for people with sensitive skin, rosacea, or acne. Plus, they’re often labeled as “reef-safe,” making them better for the environment when you’re swimming or showering outdoors.
Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, use ingredients like avobenzone, octinoxate, or oxybenzone to absorb UV rays before they can damage your skin. These formulas are typically more sheer, easier to blend, and cosmetically elegant, which is why many people prefer them for everyday wear.
What to Avoid
Not all sunscreens are created equal, and some can do more harm than good, especially for people with specific skin concerns. Avoid products with heavy fragrances or alcohols if you’re prone to irritation or dryness. Oxybenzone and octinoxate, common in many chemical formulas, are controversial due to their potential hormonal effects and damage to marine ecosystems.
If you’re acne-prone, look for formulas labeled “non-comedogenic,” which means they won’t clog your pores. For those with rosacea or eczema, go for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free versions, ideally with zinc oxide as the active ingredient. Choosing the right formula for your type of skin can make all the difference in consistent daily use.
Post-Sun Rituals That Help Your Skin Bounce Back
Even with the best protection, spending time in the Florida sun can leave your skin feeling a little stressed. Whether you’ve been at the beach, on a boat, or just running errands, your skin can benefit from some post-sun TLC. Recovery is just as important as prevention, especially if you want to avoid long-term damage, premature aging, or lingering redness.
Cool Things Down
If your skin feels warm or flushed after sun exposure, the first step is to cool down gently. A cool (not ice-cold) shower or compress can help lower skin temperature and reduce inflammation. Avoid hot water, rough scrubbing, or heavily fragranced soaps. Look for mild, hydrating cleansers that won’t strip your skin, especially if it’s already feeling tight or sensitive.
If you’ve caught a little too much sun, using aloe vera or post-sun cooling lotions with ingredients like cucumber, calendula, or chamomile can bring quick relief. Keep your products in the fridge for an extra-soothing effect. For more serious burns—blistering, severe pain, or peeling—consider calling Coastal Dermatology.
Hydrate
Sun exposure can zap your skin of moisture. After being outside, reach for a fragrance-free, hydrating moisturizer—something rich in ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin. These ingredients help repair your skin barrier and lock in moisture where it’s needed most.
Drinking plenty of water is just as important. Proper hydration supports your skin’s ability to recover, helps flush out toxins, and keeps your complexion looking healthy and plump.
Feed Your Skin Antioxidants
UV radiation creates free radicals, unstable molecules that accelerate skin aging and increase your risk of skin cancer. Antioxidants help neutralize these free radicals, both topically and internally. After sun exposure, using serums or moisturizers that contain vitamin C, vitamin E, green tea extract, or niacinamide can give your skin a powerful defense boost.
And don’t forget about your diet. Snacking on foods rich in antioxidants like berries, leafy greens, nuts, and even dark chocolate can help support your skin’s recovery and resilience from the inside.
When to See a Dermatologist—Even if Nothing Looks Wrong
You don’t need to wait for a suspicious mole or an itchy rash to visit a dermatologist. In fact, annual skin checks are one of the best ways to catch potential issues early. Skin cancer often starts subtly, especially in places you might not think to check regularly like your scalp, back, or the backs of your legs. A full-body skin exam is quick, painless, and includes everything from your scalp to between your toes.
Even if your skin looks perfectly fine, getting into the habit of yearly exams is a smart, proactive step—espeically here in Florida, where sun exposure is high year-round. If you have a family or personal history of skin cancer, lots of moles, fair skin, or past sunburns, you may need more frequent visits.
Schedule Your Next Dermatology Appointment at Coastal Dermatology
Summer is a fun and exciting season, but it comes with necessary precautions—especially when it comes to protecting your skin. Let our board-certified dermatologists help you stay protected, healthy, and confident all season long.
Coastal Dermatology is a comprehensive dermatology and aesthetic medicine clinic with two convenient locations in Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. Contact us today to schedule your annual skin check or explore additional dermatology treatment options.