Skin Cancer Awareness Month: Why SPF Matters More Than You Think

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Dr. Chet Mays

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4/27/2026

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to talk about one of the most important - and often overlooked - steps in your skincare routine: sun protection.

When it comes to maintaining healthy, youthful skin, SPF isn't optional. It's essential.

Why Skin Cancer Awareness Matters

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and one of the most preventable. Daily sun exposure - even on cloudy days or during short periods outside - adds up over time.

UV damage doesn't just increase your risk of skin cancer. It also accelerates: 

  • Fine lines and wrinkles 
  • Hyperpigmentation and sun spots 
  • Loss of collagen and elasticity

In fact, a large portion of visible skin aging is directly related to sun exposure.

SPF: Your First Line of Defense

If you're investing in treatments, facials, or medical-grade skincare, SPF is what protects those results.

Daily sunscreen helps: 

  • Prevent skin cancer 
  • Slow visible aging 
  • Maintain even skin tone 
  • Protect against long-term damage

And the key word here is daily - not just at the pool or on vacation.

Not All Sunscreens Are Created Equal

Medical-grade sunscreens are formulated to do more than just protect - they also improve the overall health and appearance of your skin.

At The Spa at MPS, we carry a curated selection of SPF products designed to fit different skin types, lifestyles, and preferences.

Our Recommended SPF Products

Pavise Dynamic Age Defense SPF

A next-generation sunscreen that not only protects against UV damage but also helps defend against environmental stressors that contribute to aging.

SkinCeuticals Daily Soothing Sunscreen

Ideal for sensitive or reactive skin, this formula provides gentle protection while calming and hydrating the skin.

SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen

Perfect for patients concerned with pigmentation and uneven tone, this sunscreen helps brighten while protecting against further discoloration.

SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense

A lightweight, tinted mineral sunscreen that blends seamlessly into the skin, offering sheer coverage and a natural finish.

Epicutis Lipid Shield

A barrier-supporting formula that protects while strengthening the skin, making it ideal for post-treatment care or compromised skin.

Colorescience SPF Makeup & Protection

For patients who want protection that fits effortlessly into their daily routine. Colorescience offers SPF-infused makeup products - from powders to tinted coverage - making reapplication easy throughout the day.

Making SPF Part of Your Routine

The best sunscreen is the one you'll actually use every day.

To get the most benefit: 

  • Apply SPF every morning (yes, even in winter) 
  • Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors 
  • Use enough product to fully cover your face and neck 
  • Don't forget areas like your ears, chest, and hands

Consistency is what makes the difference

Not Sure Which SPF Is Right for You?

Choosing the right sunscreen can feel overwhelming - especially with so many options for different skin types, concerns, and lifestyles.

At The Spa at MPS, we offer complimentary skincare consultations using our advanced GLIMPSE Skin Analysis Mahcine.

This technology allows us to take a deeper look at your skin, identifying concerns that may not be visible to the naked yee - like sun damage, pigmentation, and overall skin health.

From there, we can: 

  • Recommend the best SPF for your skin type 
  • Customize a skincare routine that protects and corrects 
  • Help you prevent future damage before it surfaces

It's a simple, informative way to take the guesswork out of your skincare - and ensure you're truly protecting your skin.

Protect Now, Plan Smarter

Skin Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder that taking care of your skin goes beyond aesthetics - it's about long-term health. And while daily SPF is essential, using the right products for your skin makes all the difference.

If you're unsure where to start, we're here to help. Schedule your complimentary skincare consultation at The Spa at MPS  and let us guide you using our advanced GLIMPSE Skin Analysis Machine. We'll assess your skin, recommend the best SPF and products, and build a routine that protects your skin now - and in the future.

Because protecting your skin today is one of the best investments you can make for years to come.

I absolutely love Dr. Mays and his team. From the moment you walk in, the staff is kind, welcoming, and always responsive. Dr. Mays makes you feel completely comfortable and confident in your choices. He listens carefully to what you want and brings your vision to life without ever pressuring you into anything. His work is absolutely phenomenal and the results speak for themselves.Trina does my Botox and she is professional, precise, and makes the experience so easy and relaxed.The entire team goes above and beyond to make you feel cared for and supported. I couldn’t recommend them more highly to anyone looking for a plastic surgeon and aesthetic team that truly delivers amazing results.

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I visited Mays Plastic Surgery Nov. 21st and had a great experience with both Meredith and Trina.Meredith did a Diamond Glow facial on me which gave me an incredible glow that I received multiple compliments on even days after my appointment. It was such a relaxing experience and Meredith made me feel so comfortable and she also prepped me to get filler and I felt literally zero discomfort when getting filler. The facial was so relaxing I didn't even want to get up out of the cozy little bed.Trina did my filler for both my undereyes and jawline. She gave great recommendations for what type of filler to use and placement. She made me feel very comfortable and was incredibly gentle during the procedure - I couldn't even tell where she'd injected me afterwards. The hollowness in my undereyes has been significantly reduced and my jawline looks so much more defined and pretty, even my neck under my chin looks better. I'm so pleased with following Trina's recommendations! My friends and coworkers have all asked about it and want to get it done themselves now!Thank you Meredith and Trina, you all were awesome!! 100% recommend them!

M.S. Google

Trina is very good, very detailed, and she listens! So far, as a transferred client, I'm pleased with the services rendered. The facility is absolutely beautiful, immaculate, very classy and elegant! The men's bathroom is off the chain! 🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾

J.M. Google

The diamond glow facial was so relaxing, and Meredith was so sweet!

S.B. Google

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