Sunscreen 101
Warmer days are just around the corner, and I thought it might me a good time to drop a little sunscreen reminder on all of us.
First up, let’s start at the beginning. With so many choices on the market, what do we choose? Make sure that your sunscreen is paraben-, phthalate-, and sulfate-free. These ‘no-no’s’ are best to avoid in anything you come into contact with and there are so many great sunscreen options that baseline don’t have any of these nasties anymore.
Lately there has been a lot of talk about the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens. Mineral sunscreens protect against UV damage with Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide. They sit on top of the skin and act as a shield against the sun’s damaging rays. Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin and protect by a chemical reaction when coming into contact with UV rays. I have recently purged our sunscreen collection of any chemical ones. Yes, mineral sunscreen has a bad rap for being thick and leaving you with the dreaded ‘sunscreen face’. But there are many new formulations that don’t do that at all!
Speaking of reapplying, this is the biggie! Winter, spring, summer, or fall…sunscreen is a must! And to really be protected all day, we must reapply. I am certainly guilty of skipping this step when I’m out and about and don’t want to add a layer of sunscreen on top of my make-up. Thankfully, there are some great cosmetic options on the market that allow you to touch-up and reapply in one easy step!
Depending on your skin type there are powder and cream options packed with SPF and beautiful skin coverage. Just remember that it’s imperative to START your day with a good foundation of proper SPF! Some of my favorites for on-the-go are:
Lately, I have been loving to start my day with:
1. RELEVANT 0NE AND DONE
I have shared my love for this product before. It’s my absolute favorite. Packed with antioxidants and high-quality skincare, this mineral sunscreen (spf 40) lives up to its name. One and done! I have super sensitive skin and it never irritates and works beautifully under make-up.
2. LA SUITE DEWY TINTED MINERAL SUNSCREEN:
This is a great option for make-up free days. Packed with incredible UV protection and the most beautiful layer of skin tint that makes you look like you have been kissed by the sun.
3. ALASTIN HYDRATINT PRO MINERAL SUNSCREEN:
Another great glowy option. Soaks beautifully into your skin and works great alone or under make-up!
The sunscreen conversation is an important one. The mineral/chemical debate, plus the importance of reapplication are just two things to think about it. I also make sure to protect more than just my face from UV rays everyday…especially my neck, chest, and HANDS! I have never been great about sunglasses, but I am turning over a new leaf and making sure I always have a pair on hand to protect my eyes. And HATS! Our scalp is constantly coming into contact with the sun and just as susceptible to sun damage and skin cancers.
Having said all of this, the sun is a beautiful and powerful thing. And even though it can be harsh and damaging, some protection-free exposure is important…just not prolonged and constant. There is space to connect with our inner sun goddess and soak up the rays. Just in moderation!
xx.
Jo