Hehe... I could have written parts of that exactly the same way: I always loved spending lots of time in the sun, got a deep tan and never burnt (the only exception was actually one winter in the high mountains; I’d completely underestimated the intensity of the sun and was outside for hours...) I never used sun cream because I found it unpleasant. Later, as I started to think things through, I found the idea of using sun protection counterproductive; after all, the body needs the sun for vitamin D production, and melatonin is an important foundation for many bodily processes. As I got older, I found myself no longer enjoying lying in the sun; I’d had a few sunburns without exposing myself too much. I still don’t use sun cream. It seems to me that both the ozone hole and my age are ‘to blame’ for the change in effect: hormone levels and skin structure change, so naturally one reacts differently to environmental stimuli. So: no need to panic ;-))
I haven't panicked, but my skin is extremely sensitive, and yes, age and hormonal changes make things worse. I've also had a few bad burns and I don't lie in the sun anymore. The last time I was at the beach, I even wore socks with my flip-flops and a long-sleeved vest over my long dress to be fully covered. I realize I looked ridiculous. But at the same time, even the skin on my feet burns, and I feel like even sunscreen can't help. On the other hand, I came across videos of dermatologists who encourage people to wear sunscreen on their hair parting line, eyelids, ears, and everywhere, because skin cancer is often triggered in these places.
I did use sunscreen, until this winter, even though I was uncomfortable with it too. I looked forward to getting home and washing myself, it felt like poison even before they announced it was toxic. But, somehow a necessary poison. Now I don't know what to use anymore.