Miami Beach Sun: Salt Air Hiding Senior Burns?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

April 25, 2026

The Miami Beach sun, a siren’s call for tourists and a daily reality for its senior residents. But that golden glow comes with a price: the relentless threat of sun damage. Many seniors, eager to enjoy the beautiful weather, often underestimate the importance of proper sun protection. This isn’t just about avoiding a painful sunburn; it’s about preventing long-term skin damage and reducing the risk of skin cancer, a serious concern for older adults.

Miami Beach seniors need a practical, no-nonsense guide to sun safety. Forget vague advice about “seeking shade.” Let’s get specific about the sunscreens readily available at your local CVS or Walgreens, how to apply them correctly, and what to do if you still get burned.

First, let’s talk sunscreen. Not all sunscreens are created equal. You need two key things: high SPF and broad-spectrum protection. SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well a sunscreen protects you from UVB rays, the primary cause of sunburn. Broad-spectrum protection means the sunscreen also shields you from UVA rays, which contribute to premature aging and skin cancer.

For Miami Beach seniors, I recommend sticking with sunscreens that have an SPF of 50 or higher. Why? Because as we age, our skin becomes thinner and more susceptible to sun damage. A higher SPF provides a greater level of protection.

Here are a few specific sunscreens you can find at your local Miami Beach CVS or Walgreens:

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55: This is a widely available, affordable option that provides broad-spectrum protection and a non-greasy feel. It’s a good choice for everyday use.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60: While a bit pricier, this sunscreen is known for its gentle formula, making it suitable for sensitive skin. It also offers excellent broad-spectrum protection.
CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50: This sunscreen is a great option for those with dry skin, as it contains ceramides to help hydrate and protect the skin barrier.

Don’t just buy the sunscreen; use it correctly. This is where many people, young and old, fall short. The biggest mistake? Not applying enough. You need about one ounce – enough to fill a shot glass – to cover your entire body.

Think about the areas that are often missed:

Ears: This is a common spot for skin cancer, especially on the tops of the ears. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to the front and back of your ears.
Back of the Neck: This area is constantly exposed, especially if you have short hair or wear your hair up.
Tops of Feet: If you’re wearing sandals or open-toed shoes, the tops of your feet are vulnerable.
Scalp (if you have thinning hair): Sunscreen sprays can be helpful here, but make sure you apply enough to thoroughly coat the scalp.

Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before going outside. This allows the sunscreen to bind to your skin. And remember to reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.

Now, let’s say you’ve done your best, but you still end up with a mild sunburn. It happens. What do you do?

Miami Beach gift shops are overflowing with aloe vera products. Aloe vera is a natural anti-inflammatory that can help soothe and heal sunburned skin. Look for products that contain a high percentage of aloe vera and avoid those with added alcohol, which can dry out your skin.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to treating a mild sunburn:

Get out of the sun immediately.
Take a cool shower or bath. This will help to lower your skin temperature and provide some relief.
Apply aloe vera gel liberally to the affected areas. Reapply several times a day.
Drink plenty of fluids. Sunburn can dehydrate you.
Avoid picking or peeling the skin. This can increase the risk of infection.

If your sunburn is severe – characterized by blistering, fever, chills, or nausea – seek medical attention immediately. Don’t try to treat it yourself.

One common pitfall is thinking that you only need sunscreen on sunny days. This is false. UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and cancer, can penetrate clouds. You need to wear sunscreen every day, regardless of the weather.

Another challenge is finding a sunscreen that you like and will actually use. Many people dislike the greasy feel of some sunscreens. Experiment with different brands and formulations until you find one that you find comfortable.

Finally, remember that sun protection is just one aspect of healthy aging. Regular check-ups with your doctor, a healthy diet, and regular exercise are also essential.

Miami Beach offers a vibrant and active lifestyle for seniors. Don’t let the fear of sun damage keep you from enjoying it. By following these simple steps, you can protect your skin and enjoy the sun safely. So, grab your sunscreen, head to the beach, and soak up the sun responsibly.