Summer Smart: Sun-Protective Habits That Keep Your Skin Healthy and Youthful

By Dr. Pezhman Roohani, MD | Medical Director, Skin Rehab Aesthetics

As temperatures rise and Minnesotans flock outdoors, it’s important to remember that sunshine—while energizing and essential for vitamin D—also remains the #1 environmental contributor to skin aging.

In Minnesota, our skin goes through extreme seasonal shifts. After long, dry winters spent mostly indoors, we tend to dive headfirst into outdoor life the moment the sun appears. But that sudden and intermittent high UV exposure can be especially harsh on skin that hasn’t built up any tolerance—making our sunburn risk and long-term sun damage even more severe.

At Skin Rehab Aesthetics, we believe in aging gracefully and confidently, and that starts with protecting your skin today for healthier skin tomorrow.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), up to 90% of visible skin aging is caused by UV exposure. This includes wrinkles, pigmentation, loss of elasticity, and even broken capillaries. The good news? Prevention is well within our control.

Here are five sun-smart habits to integrate into your daily summer routine:

1. Make Broad-Spectrum SPF Part of Your Morning Routine

Use a broad-spectrum, mineral-based SPF 30+ every morning—even if it’s cloudy or you’re spending the day inside near windows. The AAD emphasizes the importance of daily sunscreen use as one of the most effective anti-aging strategies available. We love formulas like Revision Intellishade TruPhysical and Obagi Sun Shield for weightless protection and added antioxidants.

2. Reapply—Even When You’re Busy

One application in the morning isn’t enough for active summer days. Reapply every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Keep a powder or spray SPF in your bag, car, or golf cart for easy touch-ups on the go.

3. Seek Shade and Time Your Sun Exposure

Peak UV radiation occurs between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.. Try to schedule outdoor activities earlier or later in the day when UV rays are less intense. If you’re out mid-day, seek shaded areas and wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.

4. Invest in UPF Clothing

Clothing labeled with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) offers reliable, built-in protection. Unlike sunscreen, UPF clothing doesn’t wear off—and it’s a game-changer for beach days, hiking, and kids’ sports. Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics with a UPF of 50+.

5. Treat the Damage You Can’t See (Yet)

If you’ve already accumulated years of sun exposure, we offer preventative and corrective treatments to keep your skin healthy and youthful:

• BroadBand Light (BBL) for sun spots, redness, and skin tone

• Skin Re-surfacing and Microneedling for texture and collagen support

• Medical-grade skincare that supports cellular turnover and barrier protection

  
  

  

  
  

Your Skin is a Long-Term Investment

It’s never too late—or too early—to adopt sun-smart habits. Whether you’re managing pigmentation, looking to prevent wrinkles, or simply want glowing summer skin, our team is here to guide you.

Book your complimentary skin consultation today at www.skinrehabaesthetics.com and let’s build a custom plan for radiant, protected skin all year long.

Dr. Pezhman Roohani is a board-certified neurologist and the medical director of Skin Rehab Aesthetics in Minnetonka, MN. With over 20 years of medical experience, he believes in a science-based, personalized approach to skin wellness and anti-aging.