Sunscreen For Dummies

Not to call you a dummy, but with summer in full swing, it's hard to not get a sun burn at least once (I did!), even if you are wearing sunscreen. Below is a quick Q&A giving you the need-to-know information so you can stay protected this summer. 

What's Broad Spectrum?

When a sunscreeen says "Broad Spectrum", that means it protects against both UVA (aging rays) and UVB (burning rays). When purchasing a sunscreen, I highly recommend this type of sunscreen. 

Does the higher the SPF mean the higher protection?

Not necessarily and the answer to this is controversial. SPF 30 protects us from 97% of UVA&UVB rays. Companies make sunscreens that go all the way up to 100 but honestly the difference is slim. The most important thing is whether youre choosing SPF 30 or SPF 100 is to reapply. 

What makes a natural sunscreen "natural"?

When it comes to natural sunscreens, there should only be two active ingredients listed: Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. These are also called physical sunscreens. Everything else is a chemical sunscreen ingredient. Many brands on the market use a blend of both physical and chemical ingredients. Are chemical sunscreen ingredients bad for us? The jury is still out on that one. What you do need to know is that there are several 100 chemical sunscreen ingredients on the market with new ones surfacing all the time. With that many ingredients there is little research done. Use them if you'd like, but proceed with caution and always wash it off at the end of the day. 

Do I need a separate sunscreen for my face?

In short, yes. Different skin, different ingredients. 

When do I need to apply and reapply?

It is recommended by the FDA to apply 15 minutes before going to the sun and reapply every hour or anytime you get out of the water. Even if your sunscreen is waterproof, reapply when you get out of the water please!

Got more questions about sunscreen? Drop me a line! I will answer any questions you may have to the best of my ability.