Why All Birchbox Subscribers Received Sunscreen this Month

This May, each and every one of our subscribers will receive a sun-protection product in their Birchbox. Why? Because SPF is funand a crucial ingredient to prolonged health, happiness, and world peace. (Not really, but you get the idea.) We don't have to tell you about the anti-aging benefits (80% of premature aging is caused by the sun) or the health protection (one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime)you're too smart for that. But what you might not know is that the SPF options have never been more versatile, luxurious, ordare we saya treat to wear. Here's the why, how, and what of sunscreen in 2016.

Do I Really Have to Wear it Daily? Even if I'm Not Outside?

Yep, yes, affirmative. No ifs, ands, or buts.

How Do I Find One That's Right for Me?

Maybe youre interested in wearing sunscreen daily, but cant get used to the way it feels. Thankfully, sun care has come a long way from the sticky tubes your mom used to bring to the beach. Not only is there one out there for acne-prone, dry, and sensitive skin types, but the formulas have advanced, too: These days there are oils, mists, serums, and more formulated to fit everyones concerns.

For example: Have breakouts or sensitive skin? Try a non-irritating mineral formula like MDSolarSciences Mineral Crme SPF 50 Broad Spectrum UVA-UVB Sunscreen. Worried about oily skin? Shiseidos Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector SPF 42 will protect your skin from sun and pollution without clogging your pores. Dont like heavy lotions? Liquid formulas like Kiehl's Super Fluid UV Mineral Defense SPF 50 glide on weightlessly, while light-as-air setting sprays like [Supergoop! Defense Refresh Setting Mist SPF 50](product:20336] protect you without chalky residue.

By the Way...New SPFs Work Like Your Makeup and Skincare

In addition to shielding you from harmful UV rays, the new sun-protection formulas work just as hard for you as your daily serums, moisturizers, and setting sprays. In addition to blocking the sun, COOLA Mineral SPF 30 Daydream Makeup Primer minimizes pores, reduces redness, and preps your skin for makeup. Infused with hydrating meadowfoam, argan, and grape seed oils, antioxidant-filled Supergoop! Sun Defying Sunscreen Oil softens like a body oil while protecting with SPF 50. Finally, COOLA SPF 30 Organic Makeup Setting Spray can act as the last step in your makeup routine, preventing your look from fading or running, all with the promise of A+ sun protection.

Sold! So Whats Next?

First, take the sun care sample in your May box for a spin. Next, take a look at your daily regimen to see which formula makes the most sense, whether its a daily moisturizer with SPF, a makeup setting spray, or a hydrating oil. (Our soon-to-launch Complete SPF Kit is a great way to find your match, not to mention our entire Sun Care category.) Once you find the right formula, wearing SPF will fit into your daily routine as seamlessly as, say, a cup of coffee.

Still want more info? Read all of our best sunscreen stories here.