The sun on the Costa del Sol doesn’t play nice. While you think you're just soaking up the rays, your skin is already in panic mode. And honestly? It's not winning that battle without help. UV rays here are way more intense than back in Belgium or the Netherlands. One unprotected afternoon on the beach and you’ll be rocking the lobster look. Not exactly this season’s trend.

Sunburn was never the goal

A bit of glow? Great. Burned skin? No thanks. Think: tightness, blisters, peeling. Not the relaxing vibe you had in mind while sipping that sangria. Keep your sunscreen in your beach bag and actually use it. That way, your holiday won’t turn into an aftersun emergency.

Better safe than flaky

What you skip today, shows tomorrow. Dark spots, fine lines, and dull skin are not the souvenirs you want. Sunscreen gives your skin a head start. It’s the glow-up your summer look deserves.

Two types of rays, double the trouble

UVA and UVB may sound like a forgotten 2000s boyband, but these two are anything but harmless. UVB burns your skin. UVA speeds up ageing. Only sunscreen with “broad spectrum” protection covers both. So yes, flip that bottle and read the label before you rub it in.

Shade doesn’t mean safe

Under a parasol or on a cool terrace, you might feel protected. Your skin disagrees. UVA rays go straight through clouds and glass. So even indoors with the AC on, it’s smart to keep applying. Sun protection isn’t about feeling the heat—it’s about knowing it’s there.

Sunscreen is self-care

Skin that doesn’t need to recover from sun damage is skin that glows. Smooth texture, fresh tone, less redness. All from one easy habit—applying sunscreen. Every morning. Even when you think it’s not needed. Because on the Costa del Sol, SPF is as essential as your sunglasses.

(c) photo: Frauke Riether