Summer is quickly approaching, and though we Californian’s known that we should be wearing sunscreen daily, it’s hard to know which sunscreen offers the best protection amongst the hundreds of bottles on the shelf. For that reason, we thought we’d give you a little 411 on the SPF do’s and don’ts.
The most common debate regarding sunscreens is whether to use one that offers physical vs. chemical protection. In recent years, studies have concluded that physical sun blockers, such as titanium and zinc oxide are the safest and most effective ingredients used. Though many chemical ingredients provide protection against UVA and UVB rays, there is some concern as to whether or not chemical sunscreens are more harmful to our skin than helpful, possibly even raising the risks of developing skin cancer. For this reason, we are pro physical sun protection!
Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are mineral sunscreens that sit on top of the skin and effectively block both UVA and UVB rays. We happen to be fans of our sunscreen, MelaShade-E SPF 30, an anti-oxidant sunscreen/moisturizer containing titanium and zinc oxide, along with vitamins C, E and ferulic acid ester to enhance anti-oxidant protection. Though anti-oxidants do not protect against sunburn, studies show that antioxidants in combination with broad-spectrum sunscreen protect against cell damage better than antioxidants or sunscreen alone.
We all have memories, or rather nightmares, of childhood days at the pool when our mothers would slather our skin with greasy sunscreen, leaving our eyes burning and our pores clogged. But fear not, MelaShade-E is like satin on the skin. A silicone base, this product is non-sticky and mattifying, reducing the oily appearance of the skin. And, it’s just slightly tinted, so ladies leave the compacts at home.
Last but not least, we recommend a daily sunscreen that is at lease SPF 30. Higher SPF’s should be used if in direct sunlight, and should be applied more frequently. And when applying your sunscreen, don’t forget the neck, chest and hands as UV rays easily penetrate through windows.
