Sunscreen Facts

These Important Sunscreen Facts will help you make the best and healthiest choice in sun protection!

Concerns over skin cancer have reached the public in recent years, specifically the cancers that come from over-exposure to UVA and UVB radiation (i.e. the sun). In turn, there’s a growing focus on the importance of sunscreen for protecting our skin, not simply from cancer but also from the effects of aging. (See The Importance of Sunscreen)

Skin Types:

There are six types of skin identified by dermatologists. Type 1 skin burns very easily and never tans. Type 2 skin will tan a bit, but still remains very sun-sensitive. Type three may burn some, but tans lightly. Type four tans moderately, type five rarely burns, and type six never burns due to dark tones already in the skin. One of the most important Sunscreen Facts is that while everyone should use sunscreen, those skin types that are sensitive 1-4 are at the highest risk for sun-related skin problems.

Sunscreen Facts - Applying Sunscreen:

Any time your skin will be exposed to sunlight its a good idea to apply a good sunscreen that has moisturizing, anti-oxidant qualities. You can apply many sunscreens beneath your makeup, and should put on a good coating on any area of your body that's exposed. Don't be fooled by cloudy days either! UVA and UVB can penetrate clouds (and in fact it’s quite easy to get a sunburn on cloudy days because it feels cooler).

Buy a sunscreen that minimally offers SPF 15 protection, and one that’s water / sweat resistant. Put this on about a half our before going outside. Don’t forget to find a lip balm that can keep that region safe too (your mouth shows dry skin and aging quite predominantly once it begins). Remember that even the best water resistant sunscreen needs to be re-applied if you spend more than a half hour swimming. (See Sunscreen for Lips)

Fast Facts About Sunscreen - Level of SPF Protection

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor (See What Does SPF Mean?)

For those with sensitive skin, an SPF level 30 is a good choice. While there are certainly higher SPF ratings, experts feel that you may be paying for that needlessly. An SPF 30 lotion blocks 97 percent of the harmful rays of the sun.

Sunscreen Ingredients:

There are so many sunscreens on the market now you may find shopping for one a little overwhelming. The first thing to consider is your skin type. If you have dry skin you’ll probably want a cream. For sensitive areas like your eyes, reach for a sunscreen stick. Individuals with sensitive skin can use sunscreens made for children, as they’re designed to be mild.

In terms of ingredients, watch for titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. These are two naturally occurring minerals that offer high amounts of protection without chemicals. (See Organic Sunscreen, Powder Sunscreen and Zinc Oxide Sunscreen)

Sunscreen Facts - Sunscreen Expiration:

Just because you purchased a bottle of sunscreen last year doesn't mean its not usable now. The FDA guideline for sunscreen is that it continues to work at full strength for three years.

Recommended Sunscreens

If you prefer a lotion type sunscreen, I recommend this Organic Sunscreen called Green Screen - it is the best natural Sunscreen product I have found so far.

Green Screen Organic SPF 22 Tinted Sunscreen is my favorite Zinc Sunscreen because it is skin tone tinted. It is 86% certified organic, Made with 9 organic and natural ingredients, including 25% non-nanoparticle zinc oxide and iron oxide.
Green Screen Organic SPF 20 Natural Sunscreen is an excellent, safe and natural sunscreen, even for children and babies! It is made with 8 organic (86% certified organic!) and natural ingredients, including 25% non-nanoparticle zinc oxide.
Kabana Skin Care - see all of their wonderful, natural & organic skin care products.

If you prefer Powder Sunscreen, here are my favorite Zinc Oxide Powders:

Colorescience is the pioneer in mineral powder natural sunscreen with their Sunforgettable line. In addition to the applicator brush, they have several other containers and products for your body, eye area and lips. Each product comes in several different shades.

Bare Minerals has a very popular all natural powder mineral sunscreen with an SPF of 30. It comes in the brush application, so you can take it with you n reapply as necessary. It comes in several different shades, so you can match your skin color. It can be used over your makeup, instead of finishing powder, over tined moisturizer or on bare skin.

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