Summer is finally here, and it seems like sunscreen is always a hot topic this time of year. But sunscreen season can bring a lot of questions with it. Like how much sunscreen should you be applying? Or when do you actually need to wear it?
I’ll break it down for you with these sunscreen Do's and Dont's to keep you protected all year long!
DO read the label on your sunscreen
The first thing you should do when choosing a sunscreen? Read the label! Dermatologists recommend choosing a sunscreen that's at least SPF 30 and labeled "broad spectrum."
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It measures how long a sunscreen will protect you from UVB rays (aka sunburn-causing rays).
SPF 30 sunscreen blocks around 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 sunscreen blocks closer to 98%. Not a huge difference between the two, remember that whole more isn’t always better.
UVA rays, on the other hand, penetrate deeper into the skin than UVB rays. They break down collagen and elastin, leading to premature wrinkles and loss of elasticity. Look for the words "broad spectrum" on your sunscreen packaging to ensure you're getting UVA protection as well!
DO use sunscreen rain or shine!
Sunscreen isn't just for beach days! Believe it or not, UV rays penetrate clouds, so it’s a good idea to apply sunscreen every day, regardless of the weather or season.
Pro Tip: If you end up with a sunburn, these two will help soothe and calm. Mist Phyto Tonic liberally then slather on Clean Slate over the sunburn to help soothe, fight UV damage, and lessen peeling.
DO enjoy the Sun!
The sun isn’t the enemy in small doses. If you’re going to make the most of the sunshine, enjoying 10-15 minutes of morning sunshine sans sunscreen delivers vitamin D, helps regulate your circadian rhythm to help with sleep, and even reduces SAD symptoms.
Try these 3 Must Haves if you're in the Sun
DO apply liberally (and then apply some more)
If you read the directions on your sunscreen, it'll tell you to "apply liberally." But how much is liberal?
It’s probably more than you think! As a general rule, apply ¼ tsp of sunscreen to your face, ¼ tsp of sunscreen to your neck, and 1 ounce (aka one shot glass) of sunscreen to your entire body.
And don’t forget to reapply sunscreen every couple of hours, or sooner if you've been swimming or sweating!
DON'T miss these spots
You should apply sunscreen to all exposed skin. Some commonly forgotten areas are tops of your ears, bridge of your nose, hands, lips, and the tops of your feet if you're wearing sandals!
DO give your sunscreen some backup!
Unfortunately, no sunscreen protects against 100% of UV rays. But, don’t worry - that's where antioxidants come in!
Antioxidants, especially vitamin C, play a huge role in sun protection by neutralizing free radicals and boosting the efficacy of your SPF. So using both an antioxidant rich skincare and sunscreen in your morning routine is a must to give your skin the best protection possible!
DO make sunscreen the grand finale in your skincare routine!
Sunscreen should always be applied as the final step in your skincare routine after moisturizer if you're going outside.
Pro tip: Did you know it takes about 15-20 minutes for sunscreen to form an even film over your skin?? To get the strongest protection from your sunscreen, wait the full 15-20 minutes before applying makeup or going outside.
DON'T mix your sunscreen with moisturizer (or any other product)
It may sound tempting to mix your sunscreen with moisturizer to improve the texture or give your sunscreen a hydrating boost. Unfortunately, diluting your sunscreen will make it less effective. Instead of mixing, try looking for a sunscreen with hydrating ingredients.
DO take time to find a sunscreen you enjoy using!
It might sound cheesy, but the best sunscreen is the one you look forward to using every day. Don't be afraid to explore different formulas until you find one that works best for you and your skin!
If you love your sunscreen, you'll be more likely to wear it consistently and reapply throughout the day.
Now go out and enjoy the sunshine with healthy, protected glowing skin. Take a floppy hat with you.
1 comment
Thank you for sharing this great information!! Would you consider creating and adding a mineral (nano zinc) sunscreen into your product line? I am allergic to the sun, and being a redhead with super pale skin, I burn in literally 5 minutes. I am constantly on the look for chemical-free, mineral, vegan, low waste sunscreen. I love all of your skincare products so much!!!! I would absolutely purchase a sunscreen product if you create one! :) Thank you again for sharing this article! Love this!! Such important information!!
Leave a comment