Summer is right around the corner. As the days grow longer and you spend more time outside, there is one essential product you should consider using: sunscreen.
Sunscreen can be a vital tool in protecting our skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, its effectiveness diminishes over time, necessitating regular reapplication for optimal protection. And while protection from harmful UV rays is a priority, it is equally essential to choose sunscreens with low toxic ingredients.
In this blog post, we explore tips to safeguard your skin effectively and delve into low toxic, yet effective sunscreens.
Understanding Sun Exposure
Before diving into the need for sunscreen reapplication, it is important to understand the dynamics of sun exposure and its effects on the skin. Sunlight is a vital source of vitamin D, which is critical for our bone health and immune function. However, prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin diseases.
Sunscreen serves as a protective barrier, shielding the skin from these harmful UV rays. But its effectiveness can vary based on how much you are swimming, sweating, or even the tone of your skin. Thus, regular reapplication is crucial to maintain adequate protection throughout the day.
Sunscreen Ingredient Awareness
Not all sunscreen is formulated equally. In recent years, sunscreen ingredients have sparked controversy over their potential health impacts, with several main stream brands recalling their products. Concerns have been raised about certain ingredients found in these sunscreens potentially disrupting hormone function, causing skin irritation or allergic reactions, or being linked with diseases such as cancer.
Avoiding prolonged sun exposure is an option to reduce your risk of harmful effects of the sun. But if you do want to use sunscreen, just without the harmful ingredients, Live Healthillie has you covered. We have a collection of the best sunscreens with simple, effective ingredients. Our mineral sunscreens are formulated with zinc oxide, which sits on the surface of the skin, deflecting the rays of the sun and providing protection against any potential sun damage.
Practical Tips for Sunscreen Reapplication
If you choose to wear sunscreen, it is necessary to understand how frequently to reapply the product in order for it to be effective. The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of a sunscreen indicates the level of protection against UV rays. It is a common misconception that the higher the SPF, the less frequently you should reapply the product. Reapplication frequency depends on a variety of factors including your sun exposure and activity. Typically, you should reapply your sunscreen approximately every two hours if you are in the sun for long periods of time.
To ensure effective sunscreen protection, we have outlined some practical tips for preventing sun damage and sunscreen reapplication:
1. Set Reminders
If you are going to spend a long time outside in direct sunlight, use alarms or reminders to prompt sunscreen reapplication every two hours. It can be easy to forget about sunscreen application when you are out and about, but setting reminders will keep you on track.
2. Carry Sunscreen with You
Keep a sunscreen bottle in your bag or car, so that you are always prepared to reapply when needed. And do not forget to protect your lips! The Kinfield Liplock SPF 15 Balm is a great product to use SPF for on-the-go.
3. Seek Shade
If you are not using sunscreen or if you forget to reapply it, be mindful of your sun exposure. Whenever possible, seek shade during peak sun hours to minimize UV exposure.
4. Cover Up
In addition to using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, such as hats and sunglasses can further shield your skin from UV radiation.
5. Soothe Burnt Skin
Spent too much time in the sun? Make sure to hydrate your skin afterwards. We carry the TANIT After Sun, which is a cooling mist that you can use after excessive sun exposure if your skin is feeling dry and irritated. It contains a refreshing combination of aloe, witch hazel, mint, and lavender to soothe and reset dried-out or sunburnt skin.
Factors Affecting Sunscreen Effectiveness
There are several factors that can affect the effectiveness of sunscreen and determine the need for reapplication.
Sunscreen Type: Different sunscreen formulations, such as lotions, sprays, and sticks, may have varying levels of durability. While sunscreen type is a personal preference, often creams and balms are mineral sunscreens, making them the better low tox option. If you are looking for a spray option, Beauty By Earth Sunscreen Spray is a great choice. This mineral spray sunscreen also goes on clear, making it easy to apply.
Activities: Activities like sweating, swimming, and towel-drying can diminish sunscreen effectiveness, requiring more frequent reapplication. If you are partaking in activities that may result in the sunscreen wearing off quickly, make sure to remember to reapply more frequently.
Environmental Conditions: You may find yourself sweating off your sunscreen due to humidity and temperature. Especially in warmer climates and in the summer months, do not forget to reapply sunscreen.
Skin Type: Individuals with fair skin or a history of sunburn may require more frequent sunscreen application for effective protection. Be in tune with what your skin needs.
Healthillie Approved Sunscreens
At Live Healthillie, we carry a selection of clean sunscreen and after-suncare products without harmful ingredients. Below we have highlighted a few of our favorites:
Our TANIT Moisturizing Mineral Sunscreen is a popular choice for clean sunscreen. This formula is very lightweight and water-resistant, making it perfect for outdoor activities. While some mineral sunscreens leave a noticeable whitecast, this product blends easily into the skin.
If you are looking to emphasize your skin-kissed skin, Kinfield Sunglow SPF 35 - Luminizing Sunscreen Lotion can help give you a glow. This sunscreen is formulated with a unique shimmering hue, leaving a radiant finish on the skin.
The Kinfield Cloud Cover SPF 35 is a great everyday sunscreen option. The formula is extremely blendable, making it perfect for quick application or for being a base under your makeup.
If you are looking for a mineral-based sunscreen that applies super easily, the Beauty By Earth Sunscreen Spray SPF 30 is for you. The spray bottle makes the zinc oxide transparent when it goes on the skin, making it suitable for any skin type.
The Earth Harbor Eclipse Sheer Mineral Sunscreen is a customer favorite because of its lightweight and blendable formula, which goes on smoothly underneath everyday makeup. This product comes in a 1 fluid ounce bottle, making it a perfect travel sunscreen option. But do not be fooled by the size of the bottle – a little sunscreen goes a long way.
These are just some of our favorites. We have many more amazing, low toxic sunscreens over at LiveHealthillie.
Sunscreen reapplication is important for maintaining effective protection against UV radiation and reducing the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin diseases. If you are considering using sunscreen, be conscious of the ingredients to make sure that they are low toxic. Choosing sunscreens that are free of benzene and other potentially harmful chemicals not only safeguards your skin, but also protects your overall well-being. By prioritizing sunscreens with safer ingredients like zinc oxide, you can enjoy the sun responsibly, ensuring your skin stays healthy and vibrant all summer long.