With summer in full swing, staying protected from the sun is more important than ever, especially for athletes who spend long hours training outdoors.
At the Summer Fun event held at SM Mall of Asia’s Sky Garden, Watsons gathered sports enthusiasts, skincare experts, and sun care advocates for a fun-filled afternoon dedicated to summer protection.
Among the guests were Premier Volleyball League (PVL) stars Kianna Dy and Jolina Dela Cruz, who shared how they protect their skin from the sun and maintain their glow on and off the court.
For Kianna, sunscreen is a non-negotiable part of her everyday skincare routine.
“I like using sunscreens that have SPF 50. It’s really protective, right? You know how the sun is in the Philippines,” she shared.
To make sure she’s fully covered, she applies it 30 minutes before heading out—whether for training, a game, or just being out in the sun.
Like her fellow volleyball player, Jolina shares the same mindset when it comes to sun exposure.
“Since it’s already summer, sunscreen is essential to us. It’s also an extra layer of protection,” she said.
For her, reapplication is just as essential since she’s under the sun for an extended amount of time during practice and when she travels.
“I also ride my motorcycle. It’s very important to me because I’m always on the road,” she shared.
But protecting the skin isn’t just about sunscreen—staying hydrated is just as vital, especially for athletes training in extreme conditions
“Of course, we don’t want to dehydrate during training and when going outside,” Jolina explained.
To stay fresh and keep her skin hygienic, she always brings a towel and packs multiple extra shirts, knowing how much she sweats during training.
“I think I have five extra shirts during training because it’s hot right now,” she shared.
Kianna, on the other hand, believes that achieving glowing skin isn’t just about using the right products. It also comes down to proper nutrition and rest.
“You just have to eat good, eat healthy, and make sure you take your daily supplements so that you’re glowing not only outside but also inside,” she advised.
Kianna and Jolina’s approach to sun care is exactly what dermatologists recommend.
Dr. Loren Cole Magpantay echoes their advice, explaining that sunscreen should be applied 15 to 30 minutes before going out to ensure the skin absorbs the product properly.
She also doubled down on the need to reapply every two hours—after swimming or any intense activity that makes you sweat.
For those struggling to find the right sunscreen, Dr. Magpantay recommends broad-spectrum protection with at least SPF 30 for daily use, while SPF 50+ is ideal for extended outdoor exposure.
Athletes with oily or acne-prone skin may opt for gel formulations, while those with dry or sensitive skin should choose cream-based sunscreens.
According to Sharon Decapia, Senior Assistant Vice President for Marketing Communications, PR, and Sustainability, awareness around sun defense has significantly grown among Filipinos in recent years.
“There has been a shift already in the consciousness that you don’t just put on sun care during summer, you need it even when you’re inside,” she explained.
With more people becoming mindful of sun protection, ensuring access to the right products has never been more essential.
Watsons provides a wide selection of sun care essentials suited for different lifestyles. And with over 1,000 stores nationwide and online shopping options, it’s never been more hassle-free to find the right sunscreen for your skin type and stay protected no matter where you go.
Whether you’re an athlete like Kianna and Jolina or just someone who enjoys outdoor activities, shielding your skin against harmful UV rays should always be a priority.
From choosing the right sunscreen to staying hydrated and maintaining a good skincare routine, these simple habits will keep your skin healthy, fresh, and glowing all summer long.