Time for another appearance on Great Day Green Country! This morning, I’m highlighting favorite sunscreens and tanners in honor of Springtime. I know the official first day is in March, but there is something about it finally being April that makes me ready to soak up some sun. First, a couple notes about sunscreen:
- FDA is now prohibiting the use of ultra-high SPF numbers on packaging. You don’t need to seek out shockingly high SPF factors like 100 – they don’t do anything more than SPF 50. Look for SPF 20 and higher (50 for the most sun intense days) and make sure to reapply very frequently.
- Sunscreen sprays haven’t been thoroughly tested – if you decide to use them make sure you liberally spray completely covering skin and let them soak in (don’t rub).
- For the best sun protection look for zinc or titanium oxide. My sensitive skin tends to do better with these “physical blockers” and they are the more proven sun protection ingredients.
Now on for my favorites:
ZO Skin Health ‘Oclipse’ Sunscreen + Primer SPF 30
I do my best to wear sunscreen every single day, but this stuff makes you want to wear it. The primer/sunscreen hybrid features natural melanin to reflect those nasty pigment causing rays. The silky formula works perfectly under makeup. (Tulsa folks: you can also purchase these products from Gabriel Horn at Dr. Manduano’s office).
Kate Somerville Body Glow Sunscreen SPF20
Kate always does it right – this SPF has the prettiest golden pearls that improve the look of skin while hiding imperfections. SolarX Complex blocks UVA and UVB rays while antioxidants like rosemary extract work to improve skin inside out. Mango butter hydrates and Caffeine improves tone and contours.
Cle de Peau Beaute UV Protection Cream Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50+
A truly luxurious sunscreen, the price point on this one can be shocking. But I’ve had my tube for quite a while and cherish every drop. The silky and creamy sunscreen prevents photo aging. It uniquely contains thyme and turmeric extracts to prevent DNA damage to cells that cause wrinkle formation. I love this under makeup, but it also has a luminous finish on its own – perfect for looking good at the pool.
Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion SPF 50+
For the sports buffs, this sunscreen is a champion for extreme outdoor protection. This formula soaks seamlessly into skin and has great high value SPF. It is very water-resistant so less need to stop and reapply if you are in the middle of a race (or just a marathon pool session). It is also perspiration-resistant and sand-proof.
Brush On Block BOB Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen
This novel formula provides invisible, natural sun protection in powder form, avoiding that whole greasy issue. I love this for traveling because you don’t have to deal with that pesky 3 ounce liquid rule. It also is fabulous for children or men with thinning hair.
Xen-Tan Luminous Gold Gel Sparkle Weekly Medium Self-Tan
I just won’t shut up about this fabulous self-tanner so I am going to mention it again. This clear, silky formula leaves the prettiest bronze shade. I sense no odor and the iridescent golden shimmer gives instant gratification. It is also so valuable when you can’t pass the drying time with dark clothes – feel free to wear while or light colors without fear.
And a note for those who are looking for something at the drugstore: I am a huge fan of the L’Oreal Sublime product line. They smell great, look good and are easy to use.
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