In 1997, Chicago Tribune columnist Mary Schmich wrote an article that became not only a rallying cry for the future, but the centerpiece of a cultural zeitgeist. In her essay “Advice, like youth, probably just wasted on the young”, Schmich unfurled a string of anecdotes and inspirational quotes that would be all too at home on #motivational Instagram today. Things like “don’t worry about the future”, “do one thing every day that scares you”, and ”remember compliments you receive, forget the insults”. But those phrases pale in comparison to Schmich’s ultimate piece of advice — “If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be it. The long-term benefits of sunscreen have been proven by scientists, whereas the rest of my advice has no basis more reliable than my own meandering experience”.

In a world where exposure to UV rays is indisputable, in order to make the most of our Recreational lifestyle, it’s imperative to adhere to a routine of applying SPF regardless of the activity. For this, we recommend turning to Supergoop’s array of products. As they note, “any dermatologist will tell you, SPF 30 is the minimum needed daily protection. For a day outdoors, we recommend SPF 50 (and don’t forget to reapply!).”

While nearly half of suncare products on the market fail to meet their SPF and water resistance claims, Supergoop goes one step further, not only meeting their claims, but publishing the findings so you can see how they performed in scientific tests. Their transparency is another reason why their Sun-Defying Sunscreen Oil with Meadowfoam (body sunscreen) and the Unseen Sunscreen (face), both antioxidant-rich formulas, as well as water and sweat resistant for up to 40 minutes, are our go-tos when it comes to broad spectrum coverage for your Recreational lifestyle. 

The oil is designed for those days when you don’t know what you might be getting into. A far cry from the notoriously thick, white paste that is generic body sunscreen, this oil works overtime to moisturize while protecting you from the sun’s rays. It’s lightweight and doesn’t stain. Just slick it on and go.

The Unseen Sunscreen, on the other hand, is a year-round sun and blue light solution. The clear, smooth gel sets quickly and feels silky to the touch. It doesn’t create a full matte-skin effect, but it’ll buff out any overtly shiny patches. The application experience is so pleasant, you’ll actually remember to put it on before running out the door.

We can’t tell you what to do with your life, but as Mary said so eloquently at the end of her column, no matter what you do, “trust me on the sunscreen.” 

IF I COULD OFFER YOU ONLY ONE TIP FOR THE FUTURE, SUNSCREEN WOULD BE IT.