Michelle Monaghan Shares Her Favorite Sunscreen, SPF Beauty Products, and Skin-Care Tips

The actor and skin cancer survivor has figured out the secret to easy sun protection—and you should copy her moves.

Michelle Monaghan, a well-known actress, was diagnosed with skin cancer during her thirties. Since then, she has been vigilant about safeguarding her skin from the sun's harmful rays. The mole discovery on her leg was done by her spouse, Peter White, who hails from Australia. Australia has a high prevalence of skin cancer, and residents are educated about the ABCDEs of skin cancer detection; Asymmetrical growth, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter over the size of a pencil eraser, or Evolving in size, shape, or color. Peter found a suspicious mole on Michelle’s calf, prompting her to have a skin check. Although Monaghan wasn’t previously aware of the seriousness of skin cancer, she heeded her husband’s advice and saw a dermatologist. The doctor initially dismissed the mole as harmless but removed it for analysis. Surprisingly, it was diagnosed as melanoma, a type of skin cancer that can be deadly if not detected early. Fortunately, it's usually curable when caught in time, as per the Skin Cancer Foundation. Monaghan has since been more diligent about her skincare regimen. She reminisces about her childhood days spent frolicking on a farm without using much sunscreen, which contrasts starkly with her current routine. Presently, she applies sunscreen daily after showering, brushing her teeth, and applying deodorant. This is part of her meticulous beauty routine aimed at maintaining her appearance while prioritizing sun protection.

Her No-Fail Sun Safety Strategy

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Choose a sunscreen that simplifies your skincare routine. One of my favorites is EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41 Sunscreen (Buy It, $33). This product is free from harsh chemicals, moisturizes the skin, and has a tint that delivers a balanced complexion.

I typically skip foundation to let my natural skin show through, and instead, I just dab on some concealer wherever necessary. The concealer that I swear by is Clé de Peau Beauté Concealer Broad Spectrum SPF 25 (Buy It, $73). It offers superior coverage and blends seamlessly into the skin.

For a pop of color, I use Glossier Generation G Sheer Matte Lipstick (Buy It, $18) on both, my cheeks and lips. Finally, I seal this look with Moroccan Magic Organic Lip Balm (Buy It, $4). I'm quite particular about lip balms, and this one is definitely my top pick!

How She Gears Up for Outdoor Activities

"In my household, we are all quite active. That's why I ensure that EltaMD UV Active Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ Sunscreen (Buy It, $29, dermstore.com) is always on hand at our kitchen island. It ensures no one forgets to protect their skin before we leave the house - I'm pretty insistent about it. Additionally, I often sport a bandana around my neck for added coverage. It's not just practical, but stylish too." "When indulging in activities like surfing, I prefer to wear a rashguard vest and even leggings. I try to minimize my skin's exposure as much as possible. If I happen to be swimming, I opt for a Top Knot hat. It comes with an elastic opening designed for your top knot or high ponytail and dries incredibly quickly. It's a favorite of mine and my daughter's." "However, when lounging by the pool or on a trip, I switch to a Janessa Leoné straw hat. It's resilient and maintains its shape even after being packed away in a bag for hours on end. It never fails to impress."

She Doesn't Skimp On Regular Skin Exams

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Being proactive about my skin health, I don't hesitate to consult my dermatologist when something seems amiss. Even if there's a mole that might be harmless, my standpoint is, 'Is there any downside to removing it? Let's proceed.'

(This is precisely how frequently you should schedule a skin exam.)

'There is hardly any scarring from a simple mole biopsy. But, based on personal experience, waiting too long leads to a much larger scar. Regrettably, that will be the least of your concerns.'