Skin Friendly Sunscreen

Skin Friendly Sunscreen

Our health store does not carry a large inventory of sunscreens. I thought I would share with our readers information on 6 or 7 sunscreens that I would use for my family.

First a little education on SPF ratings.

The ABCs of SPFs

When reading sunscreen labels, pay attention pay attention to the sun-protection factor, typically listed as SPF plus a number. A product with an SPF 15 (the minimum recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation) will block about 93 percent of UVB rays – the ones that cause tanning and burning. SPF 30 will block about 97 percent, and even lotions with an SPF of 50 or higher probably block no more than 99 percent, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. “Higher doesn’t necessarily mean better,” says Joel L. Cohen, MD, chair of patient education for the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery. “Because to get that higher SPF number, the product may contain a higher concentration of potentially irritating chemical ingredients.”The other caveat? SPF refers only to the amount of protection you’re getting from UVB rays. While ample proof exists that UVA rays do just as much damage to skin—causing signs of premature aging as well as raising the risk of skin cancer—knowing exactly how much protection you’re getting from UVA rays remains elusive. Hedge your bets by looking for a sunscreen that promises “broad spectrum” protection, which means it contains ingredients that filter out both UVA and UVB rays. How you apply sunscreen is just as important as what you apply. According to the recommendations of the Skin Cancer Foundation, you need to apply a full ounce of sunscreen to protect your entire body adequately, and you need to put it on about 30 minutes before heading outdoors so the ingredients can bind with your skin. For a day outdoors, reapply about every two hours—more often if you take frequent dips or sweat profusely.

Alba Botanica Mineral Sunscreen
Also fragrance free, this new, titanium dioxide – based lotion does not contain controversial ultrafine nanoparticles. It’s also formulated with organic lavender and aloe to smooth sun-exposed skin.
SPF 18 ($9.95, http://www.albabotanica.com/)

Derma e Anti-Aging Moisturizing ComFlex
This light, easy-to-blend sunscreen can be worn day or night. Green tea, olive oil and cucumber extract enrich this versatile moisturizer.
SPF 15 ($19.50, http://www.dermae.net/)

Lavera Kids Plant-Green Sun Spray
Colored with a fast-fading green pigment so you can track application, this waterproof, biodegradable sunscreen needs no advance application and does not hold up under water.
SPF 25 ($26.50, http://www.lavera.com/)

All Terrain Performance Sun Block AquaSport
Designed for dunking and splashing, this sunscreen is one of the hardiest sunscreens we reviewed. All Terrain recently reformulated to remove all parabens from their line of sun protection for outdoor enthusiasts.
SPF 30 ($9.99, http://www.allterrainco.com/)

Erbaviva Sunscreen
Erbaviva’s baby line, eschewing all synthetic ingredients, is safe for children and adults alike. Lightly scented with organic essential oils of lavender and chamomile.
SPF 15 ($28, http://www.erbaviva.com/)

Ole Henriksen Sun-light Protection Crème with Green Tea
Formulated specifically for dry skin, this shea butter-based crème includes green tea and grape seed oil, powerful antioxidants believed to slow the aging process.
SPF 30 ($28, http://www.olehenriksen.com/)

Nature’s Gate Be Solective Sunscreen for Face
A sunscreen created for delicate facial skin that offers UVA/UVB protection plus anti-aging complex derived from walnuts.
SPF 30 ($14.99, http://www.natures-gate.com/)

Dr. Hauschka Sunscreen Stick
Take care of you lips, nose and ears with this heavy-duty, lifeguard-style protection. Doesn’t blend in without some work, but will make you look like an outdoors aficionado.
SPF 30 ($14.95, http://www.drhauschka.com/)