Alright fam, it’s getting HOT. Your skin experts are dropping in to give you the low-down on how to protect your skin from the sun (while still enjoying the heck out of your summer!). Don’t worry, no summer fun was harmed in the making of this guide.
Before we begin, let’s make one thing clear: the sun is not the enemy! In fact, sunlight is essential to boosting mood, energy, and well…giving us life (details). However, many of us tend to enjoy the sun a bit too much without taking into consideration the potentially harmful effects it can have on our skin. We’re talking wrinkles, sun spots… sun cancer!? No, thanks.
Let’s get to it.
What’s up with Zinc?
For ideal sun protection, make sure you are using a physical sunscreen containing either Zinc or Titanium. These two powerful ingredients are the only protectants that offer physical protection and are anti-inflammatory. Chemical sunscreen can be irritating, and has potential to pigment the skin making it more susceptible to sun damage. For optimal results, choose a physical sunscreen that contains at least 10% zinc (the ultimate sun spot fighter), and reapply every two hours.
The expert’s suggestion for everyday use: Face Reality Sunscreen SPF 28
This sunblock contains both Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, which provides broad spectrum coverage from harmful UVA and UVB rays. It also includes Allantoin which is soothing, moisturizing and promotes healthy cell renewal. This is an excellent choice for sensitive and rosacea skin types. Active Ingredients: 11.6% Zinc Oxide, 0.67% Titanium Dioxide.
The expert’s suggestion for outdoor activities like hiking, long walks, and water-based activities: Thinksport Everyday Face Sunscreen SPF 50
This one is nice and thick with 20% zinc and will give you that sweet layer of major protection when you know you’ll be under intense sun exposure!
Vamanos a la playa! (but hold the skin stressors)
As SoCal gals, we LOVE the beach! But not at the expense of our skin. Here are our simple secrets for your best (and most protected) beach day:
Skip your exfoliant the morning before going to the beach to avoid making your skin more sun-sensitive. Opt for a gentle cleanser instead, and follow up with (you guessed it) sunscreen!
If going on the water, wear a hat and a thick white layer of sunblock. And don’t forget the layer on your chest + neck!
Save outdoor activities like beach volleyball and hikes for before 10am and after 4pm when the sun isn’t as strong (sunset stroll, anyone?).
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.
We cannot stress this one enough. For healthy + wrinkle-free skin, aim to drink 2-3 liters of water every day. The sun is d-r-y-i-n-g and can disrupt your skin’s natural healing process if the proper steps aren’t taken.
To break up your H2O intake, drink green tea! Green tea is a natural sun protectant and helps to keep your skin less oily!
Replace the sun block with sun blocking… clothes!?
Yep, you heard correctly. Swap out the lotion with sun-safe swimwear and clothing. UV Skinz apparel is clinically tested to block 98% of UVA and UVB sun rays (and is sharp + stylish). This epic brand is providing peace of mind from the sun’s damaging rays. 95% of skin cancers are preventable, and UV Skinz offers a unique way to enjoy the sun while taking action to prevent + protect.
The Cool Down
The fun (aka skin protection) doesn’t stop when you step off the sand. After-sun care is crucial to keeping your skin healthy and glowing! To erase brown spots, use CLEARity + CELLrenew before bedtime. CLEARity contains vitamin C which protects the skin from the sun, and CELLrenew calms inflammation in the case of too much sun exposure. Use this winning combination nightly for best results.
Repeat after us: NO HOT WATER! Shower burn is real, folks. Hot water strips the skin’s natural barrier making it easier to accumulate UV damage. Make it a habit to wash your face with lukewarm water. Trust us, your skin will thank you.
And there you have it! Beat the heat + protect your skin while enjoying the summer rays.
