Rule #1: If it Feels Good, you’ll use it more often!

With so many options available, are you choosing the right sunscreen product? Find a Formulation that is easy to apply and feels good on YOUR skin! If it feels good and is easy to apply, you will use it more often.

There are 2 types of sunscreens, Physical and Chemical.

Chemical sunscreens, work by absorbing UV rays, changing them to heat, then releasing the heat from the skin. The most common chemicals used are Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, and Octocrylene. Avoid Oxybenzone and Octinoxate. Oxybenzone is not recommended in children and both can be harmful to the environment. When compared to physical sunscreens, chemical sunscreens are easier to apply and less is needed to apply but, they take at least 15 minutes to become effective and their protection gets used up the more UV light they are exposed to, so reapplication must be done more frequently.

Physical sunscreens, Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide, absorb or reflect UV radiation. Physical sunscreens are always broad-spectrum and are better for those with sensitive skin, but they are much harder to apply and can rub, sweat, or rinse off easily. Physical sunscreens can also leave a white residue on the skin and/or stain clothing.

You can find sunscreen formulations as creams, gels, lotions, oils, sprays, sticks, or pastes. Gels might be easier for hairy areas, sprays for wet skin, creams for dry skin and faces, and sticks for around the eyes. Apply it generously to all exposed skin. The average adult should use about 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) per full body application.

The best general advice I can provide is to:

• Use an SPF 30

• Use a broad-spectrum product

• Apply 15 mins before sun exposure

• Limit sun exposure from 10 am – 2 pm

• REAPPLY, REAPPLY, REAPPLY