Blocking the Sun for Sensitive Skin

Summer is here and what brand of sun screen are you going to wear for the best protection against the sun? Whether it’s for you, a child or a baby you will find that there is not much of a difference between the protection for grown-ups or children. It is not really necessary to use two different types of sun screen to accommodate both adult and child.

Things to look for when purchasing sun screen are: That it 1) Provides broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection and 2) has an SPF of at least 15 to 30. It is not believed that anything higher than 30 provides beneficial protection. Some experts would like to see the ratings of sun screen capped off at 30 SPF. Anything higher than 30 may just be unnecessarily exposing yourself to more chemicals.

Another component to look for in a sun screen is water resistance. You may not be swimming, but if you are out in the sun, chances are you are sweating. It will provide a longer lasting affect than just regular sun screen.

Not all sun screens offer all of what is important in sun protection. When looking for the best sun screen, look for ingredients that are listed as avobenzone, titanium dioxide, or zinc oxide.

If you have sensitive skin then you will want a sun screen that is hypoallergenic and fragrance free. If you get a rash from sun screen, review the ingredients list and choose differently next time, possibly ruling out a particular ingredient. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide can be less irritating than avobenzone, a common ingredient in sun screen.

Experts say that the average parent uses only half of the recommended amount of sun screen that they are suppose to use. Sun screen is supposed to be reapplied every 2 hours and more often if sweating or swimming. A common mistake made by sun screen users is that they wait to apply the protection until they are outside or not until they see the signs of sunburn. Sun screen should be applied 30 minutes before going outdoors or being exposed to the sun.

Do not be fooled by clouded skies. Clouds do not protect you from the harmful rays of the sun. If you don not have sun protection you should avoid being outdoors between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the suns rays are at their strongest.

Clothing can provide protection, however some materials are more UV ray protective than others. The use of hats and umbrellas will also help protect you.

Whether you have dark skin or fair skin, you should use a sun screen protection. We are all at risk for the adverse effects of the sun, regardless of our race or ethnicity. A base tan is not a substitute for sun screen protection, either.

Some of the best sun screens include:
1. La Roche Posay Anthelios- this sun screen provides the chemical “Meroxyl”, a well known chemical to protect against UVA rays. (Most sun blocks only provide protection against UVB rays).
2. Kiehl’s- An A+ sun screen for the face.
3. Bull frog Superblock – It has the longest lasting protection even for the fairest of skin.
4. Eucerin- The best Facial Moisturizer with SPF for dry skin. A great combination for both moisturizer and sun screen.
5. Aveda- The best facial moisturizer and sun screen for oily skin.
6. L’Occitane- The best facial moisturizer with SPF for all skin types.
7. Lauren Mercier- Tinted moisturizer that is lighter than the average foundation and provides a soft coverage. The best tinted moisturizer on the market.
8. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch sunblock- It goes on lightly, and won’t leave you with a “ghost glow”, the annoying white residue that some sunblocks give. Offers UVA protection.
9. Shisheido Ultimate Sun Protection Cream- This is another favorite on Makupalley.com. This sun screen is meant to be worn under foundation or tinted moisturizer.
10. Arbonne- this sun screen is ideal for both babies and adults

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