June 3, 2009

SUN SENSE 101

SUN FACTS:
* Dermatologists state that brief sun exposures all year round can add up to significant damage for people of all complexions, but especially those with fair skin. Such cumulative, everyday exposures are linked to squamous cell cancer. Although not as dangerous as melanoma, squamous cell cancer is still believed to be the cause of up to 20% of skin cancer deaths.

* UVA rays help age skin cells and cause some damage to cells' DNA. UVA rays are mainly linked to long-term skin damage such as wrinkles, loss of skin elasticity and dark patches but are also thought to play a role in some skin cancers.

* UVB rays are mainly responsible for direct damage to the DNA, and are the rays that cause sunburns. They are also thought to cause most skin cancers.

* Be sure to apply the sunscreen properly. Always follow the label directions. When applying it, pay close attention to your face, ears, hands, and arms, and generously coat the skin that is not covered by clothing. If you're going to wear insect repellent or makeup, apply the sunscreen first.

* For best results, most sunscreens must be reapplied at least every 2 hours and even more often if you are swimming or sweating. Products labeled 'waterproof' may provide protection for at least 80 minutes even when you are swimming or sweating. Products that are 'water resistant' may provide protection for only 40 minutes. Be sure to choose a broad spectrum product that blocks UVB and UVA rays.

RECOMMENDED SUN PRODUCTS:

BODY:
Nia 24 Sun Damage Prevention 100% Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 30) <2.5> $45
Physician recommended duo-action sun damage prevention and 100% mineral sunscreen in a weightless, oil-free lotion that absorbs instantly for complete protection.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock (SPF 55) <3> $9.49
Neutrogena has developed a breakthrough new sun protection technology complex called Helioplex, specifically engineered to deliver very high, very broad and photo-stable UV protection. It protects with advanced broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection and combines it with Dry Touch technology to provide an ultra-light, non-shiny finish. Gentle enough for even sensitive skin.
Aveeno Continuous Protection Active Sunblock Spray (SPF 70) <5> $9.39
Formulated to provide sweatproof sun protection in a one touch spray that allows you to spray the product at any angle, even upside down. This light, non-greasy formula provides sweatproof/waterproof protection and contains patented Active Photobarrier Complex™ to provide broad-spectrum protection over time, so you can stay protected from the sun's harmful rays while you are active.
FACE:
Solar Sense Clear Zinc Advanced Sun Protection For Face
(SPF 45) <.45 oz> $4.08
This all season, broad spectrum sun protection cream contains clear Zinc Oxide, a physical sunblock, which unlike chemical sunblocks, forms a shield which repels the sun's rays and prevents them from absorbing into the skin. It also contains Green Tea, nature's super antioxidant that not only helps prevent sun damage but helps accelerate skin cell renewal. This moisturizing formula with Aloe and Vitamins A, C & E, is non-greasy, hypo-allergenic, fragrance-free and instantly rubs in clear leaving no white residue.
Sun Science Hydrating Sun Mist (SPF 30) <3.4> $9.99
A lightweight SPF delivered to the skin in a fine mist of full-spectrum coverage. Ideal for dry, dehydrated skin types who want a burst of protective moisture for the face. Once absorbed into the skin, it dries clear and is non-greasy.
Peter Thomas Roth Instant Mineral Powder (SPF 45) <0.15> $30
A transparent SPF 45 mineral powder in a convenient brush applicator that works immediately to block out the sun's harmful UVA, UVB, and infrared rays to help prevent sunburn, skin damage, freckling, and discoloration. This finely milled, talc-free matte powder leaves a residue-free layer of sun protection to help skin maintain a soft, healthy and radiant look.
LIPS:
Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm (SPF 25 ) <0.25> $7
Not just any lip balm! Field-tested in extreme conditions and containing ultra-moisturizing shea butter, this is the formula if you want the best all-around lip balm in the world.
Banana Boat Aloe Vera with Vitamin E Sunscreen Lip Balm (SPF 45) $2.09
This lip balm is very water/sweat resistant, helps soothe and keeps your lips soft and supple. Formulated with patented AvoTriplex™ technology to prevent UVB/UVA damage. Ocean Potion Moisturizing Lip Potion (SPF 45) <0.15> $1.39
This all season Lip Sun Block offers the most effective protection for lips. Made with rich conditioners to help keep the lips soft and smooth with an orange/vanilla flavor.HAIR:
L'Oréal Professionnel Série Expert Solar Sublime Leave-In Conditioning Spray ($21)
This product gives instant protection for hair during exposure to the sun. With non-greasy texture, a light protective film is formed around the hair fibre to keep it nourished and protect the radiance of the hair.
Redken UV Rescue Daily Sun Milk (SPF 12) <5> $7.25
Shields hair from the damaging and drying effects of the sun. Detangles and moisturizes leaving hair with a lightweight, natural finish. Replenishes and soothes the scalp while providing SPF 12 protection.
NAILS:
Orly Sunscreen for Nails <0.6oz> $5
Protection for every color under the sun. The advanced U.V. absorbent, high-shine topcoat protects polish from damaging UV rays which can fade or yellow lacquer in sunlight.
AFTER SUN:
Kiss My Face After Sun Aloe Soother with Jewelweed & Yucca <4> $4.19
With over a thousand years of use in Native American remedies, Aloe Vera, Yucca-Glauca Root and Jewelweed are ingredients with extraordinary moisturization and anti-inflammatory properties.
AHAVA Mineral Suncare Aftersun Rehydrating Balm for Body & Face <8.5> $22.50
Treat your skin to this anti-aging blend of soothing Aloe Vera, Dead Sea minerals anti-oxidant vitamins and natural moisturizers and restore what the sun and the elements have stripped away. This delightfully light balm offers a perfect drink of cooling and calming moisture to sun-exposed skin, helping it to feel comforted, soft and healthy.
Clinique After Sun Rescue Balm with Aloe <5> $20
Ultra-moisturizing balm with soothing aloe calms sun-exposed skin. Provides a post-sun "repair" to help prevent today's sun exposure from becoming tomorrow's visible damage. Helps minimize peeling. Suitable for face and body.

1 comment:

  1. Great post... sunscreen is SO important. I have loved Neutrogena in the past, but this year I used the Coppertone SPF 70 with antioxidants. Since the ingredients on the "for body" and "for face" were near identical (but you got more for $$ with the body kind), I just used that all over. What are you using, at the moment?

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