Because mowing the lawn without SPF is not a personality trait
Dads. We love them. But why do they treat sunscreen like itās optionalālike seatbelts in the ā70s or reading instructions on a grill? š§“āļø
As a wound and ostomy nurse in my fabulous 40s (and a lifelong skin nerd), Iām here to lovingly roast the men we care aboutāwhile also dishing out practical, nurse-approved advice to keep their skin safe, strong, and glowing. Because yes, even rugged manly-man skin can burn. And no, a farmerās tan does not count as sun protection. šāāļø
š The Problem: Dad vs. the Sun
Whether heās mowing the lawn, grilling meat like itās the 4th of July every weekend, or playing golf with his buddies, your dad (or partner or grandpa) is likely not reapplying sunscreen every 2 hours. Or at all.
What Happens When You Skip SPF:
- Wrinkles: Deep ones. Like, road-map-of-Texas deep.
- Sunspots: Not the cute kind. More like āwait, what is that?ā vibes.
- Skin cancer: Yes, even on bald heads and behind ears.
- Delayed wound healing: UV damage breaks down collagenābad news for guys who nick themselves shaving or pick at that mole they shouldāve had checked three years ago. š©¹
š§“ Sunscreen Tips for the Dad Who Thinks Heās Fine
Letās help the father figures in our lives protect their skin without overwhelming them with a 27-step K-beauty routine.
1. Keep It Simple
Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ thatās water-resistant. Bonus if it says āfor menā on the labelāsometimes itās all about marketing.
2. Spray It On
Some dads love a gadget. Enter spray sunscreens. He can cover his arms, legs, and back of the neck in 30 seconds flat.
3. Make It Part of the Routine
Leave it next to his toothbrush. Slap a sticky note on the fridge. Put it in his truckās cupholder. š» Whatever it takes.
4. Donāt Forget the Bald Spot
A hat is good. SPF scalp spray? Even better.
5. Appeal to Vanity (Yes, Really)
Tell him itās not about looking prettyāitās about not looking crispy. Or about not needing that āsuspicious moleā biopsy later.
šæ Bonus: Gut-Skin Connection Moment
UV exposure creates inflammationāand whatās one of the bodyās favorite ways to fight inflammation? Yep, your gut. š¦
- A diet high in antioxidants and omega-3s (think salmon, leafy greens, and berries) can help reduce UV-related skin damage.
- Hydration and fiber also support skin resilience, so Dadās sunscreen routine can start at the dinner table. š„š§
ā ļø Disclaimer (Because Iām a Nurse, Not Your Nurse š)
This blog is for general education and entertainment purposes only. Always consult with your doctor, dermatologist, or wound/ostomy care specialistāespecially if you have specific skin concerns, a family history of skin cancer, or other medical conditions. Weāre here to educate and empowerānot to replace your care team. š
Want help picking out nurse-approved sunscreens for the men in your life? Iāve got a list coming soon! And heyāmaybe heāll finally stop using the same soap on his face, body, and hair. (We can dream, right? š )
