How to Protect Your Skin in Florida Sun Year-Round | Dermatologist-Recommended

Florida’s sunny climate may be beautiful, but it also presents a constant challenge for skin health. With year-round UV exposure and some of the highest sun intensity in the country, Floridians face a significantly increased risk of sun damage and skin cancer. Whether you live in Boca Raton or elsewhere in the Sunshine State, it is crucial to adopt a comprehensive approach to sun protection. Dr. Adam Aldahan, a Boca Raton dermatologist, shares expert-approved strategies to protect your skin every season.

Why Year-Round Sun Protection Matters

Florida ranks among the top states for UV exposure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., but in southern states like Florida, harmful UV radiation is elevated even during the winter months and on cloudy days. This exposure can lead to premature aging, wrinkling, sunburns, and an increased risk of skin cancers, including melanoma.

In fact, the Skin Cancer Foundation reports that more than 90% of nonmelanoma skin cancers are associated with UV exposure. Even more concerning, Florida has one of the highest rates of melanoma in the United States, highlighting the importance of proactive skin protection.

Dermatologist-Recommended Sun Protection Tips

1. Use a Broad-Spectrum Mineral Sunscreen Daily

Exposure to UVA radiation can cause signs of premature aging such as wrinkling and weakening of the skin’s integrity. UVB radiation increases our risk of skin cancers. Protecting against both UVA and UVB rays is crucial to optimizing your skin’s health. I recommend a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide, which protects our skin from both UVA and UVB rays.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even when it's cloudy. For Floridians, look for water-resistant formulas that can withstand humidity, sweat, and swimming. If you are going to be outside for a long time, I recommend reapplying your sunscreen every two hours, and immediately after swimming or sweating.

The best sunscreens for Florida residents include mineral-based options with zinc oxide. Titanium dioxide can be used alongside zinc oxide, but titanium dioxide should not be used alone since it only covers UVA rays. Therefore, it is essential to make sure your sunscreen contains zinc oxide.

Here are two excellent, medical grade zinc oxide sunscreens I developed specifically to withstand the Florida sun:

• Anovo Skin Physical 40
• Anovo Skin Physical 44 Tint (tinted)

All Anovo Skin products are available online at anovoskin.com or in our Boca Raton dermatology office.

2. Wear Protective Clothing and Accessories

Sunscreen is just the beginning. Wearing sun-protective clothing adds a critical layer of defense. Choose lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants made from UPF-rated fabric. A UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) of 50+ blocks approximately 98% of UV rays.

Additionally, always wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. Prolonged UV exposure is linked to an increased risk of cataracts and eye cancers, making eye protection an essential part of your sun safety plan.

3. Seek Shade Strategically

Whenever possible, avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours, typically from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you are outdoors, find or create shade using umbrellas, wide-brimmed hats, or portable canopies. Trees and shaded patios also reduce your UV exposure significantly.

4. Get Annual Skin Exams from a Board-Certified Dermatologist

Routine skin checks are essential, especially in Florida where cumulative sun exposure is high. A full-body skin exam can help detect suspicious moles or early signs of melanoma. According to the American Cancer Society, early detection of melanoma dramatically increases the chances of successful treatment.

Additionally, with advances in technology for skin cancer detection such as high magnification dermatoscopes, board-certified dermatologists are able to identify skin cancers including melanoma at earlier stages. It is crucial to make sure your dermatologist utilizes a dermatoscope during your skin exam, as this is considered the gold standard for skin screening exams.

To learn more about warning signs and treatment options, visit our page on melanoma treatment in Boca Raton.

5. Consider In-Office Treatments for Sun Damage

If you already have signs of sun damage—such as dark spots, rough patches, or uneven skin tone—cosmetic and medical dermatology treatments can help. Common options include:

• Photodynamic therapy (PDT)for precancerous lesions such as actinic keratoses.
• Laser therapy to reduce pigmentation and improve skin texture.
• Mohs surgery, a precise technique used to remove skin cancer layer by layer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. It is especially effective for high-risk or facial skin cancers.

Consulting with a board-certified dermatologist ensures these treatments are tailored to your specific skin type and history of sun exposure.

Final Thoughts

Protecting your skin in Florida requires year-round diligence. By combining daily sunscreen use, protective clothing, shade, and regular dermatology visits, you can significantly reduce your risk of sun damage and skin cancer.

Remember, the effects of UV exposure are cumulative. What you do today can help prevent premature aging and serious skin conditions in the future. Partner with your trusted Boca Raton dermatologist to create a sun safety plan that works for your lifestyle.