Recently in Sun Protection Category

Worried about what sunscreen to choose? Want to make sure it will protect you from both UVA and UVB rays? Last week we exposed the ugly truth behind suncreens and the manufacturing practices of brands' suncreens. It left us with disappointment, but we're determined to find the best sun protection for ourselves and those we love. The following is a list of products highly recommended based on the EWG research study, and we are loving too.

 

Best Sunscreen for Your Face: TruKid Sunny Days Sunscreen Facestick

Some sunscreens don't work so well on the face-- they're opaque and may leave an unattractive white film behind. This facetick from TruKid smells great and goes on sheer, but still protects from the sun. We don't recommend this for use under makeup-- this is strictly for those days when you need specific protection for your face by the pool or on the beach when you're wearing no makeup. $20.52 amazon.com

  

 

Best Lip Treatment with SPF: Jane Iredale LipDrink SPF 15

While most people are slathering their shoulders and noses, the lips are frequently forgotten. In fact, lower lips are highly susceptible to skin cancer since it is exposed the most. Let Jane Iredale's LipDrink moisturize dry lips and protect them at the same time. We love the fresh lemon scent that keeps our spirits up in the heat of the season. $11.60 beauty.com

 

 

Best Facial Moisturizer SPF: Marie Verionique Organics Creme De Soleil, SPF 30+

This mineral-based formula, made with zinc oxide, offers complete protection against UVA/UVB rays. Using jojoba, red raspberry seed, and sea buckthorn oils in a green tea base to provide additional natural sun protection and anti-aging support, Creme De Soliel is non-comedogenic and recommended for all skin types. $44.99, marieveronique.net

 

 

 

Best Everyday Sunscreen: UV Natural Sunscreen SPF 30+

We love this sunscreen for its simplistic, yet effective, blend of ingredients. Green tea, grapeseed oil and natural Vitamin E offer anti-oxidant benefits to strengthen skin to fight against free-radicals. Water-resistant. $37.99, amazon.com

 

 

 

Best Sunscreen for Your Kids: California Baby No Fragrance SPF 30+

Our kids love to go out and play, and that means loads of exposure to the sun. This sunscreen offers non-chemical, fragrance-free protection that is safe even for our littlest ones. We also love it because if we're running low on our own product, this sunscreen works great for us too. $18.09, drugstore.com

 

 

 

Best Water-Resistant Sunscreen: Fallene Cotz Water Resistant Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin, SPF 58

When it's time to hit the beach or cool off in the pool, a water-resistant sunscreen is important. They also work great for when you play outdoor sports and will be working up a sweat. Fallene Cotz has created a formula that will stand up in the water and is suitable for sensitive skin. Plus, it has the highest UVB protection out of all our product picks. $22.99, drugstore.com

 

 

 

Best Drugstore Sunscreen: Solar Sense Clear Zinc Sport Stick for Face, SPF 45

We have relied on drugstore sunscreens to protect us (and our kids) for years. When we discovered that practically none of them made the grade when it came to the EWG study, we were beyond disappointed. One of the two we found to be in the recommended range without oxybenzone was Solar Sense Sport Stick. Thankfully, it's safe and offers a high level of SPF to protect skin with a great price and convenience to boot. $3.82, drugstore.com

You slather on your SPF everyday thinking you're doing what Martha Stewart would classify as "A Good Thing"; you're protecting your skin, right? Wrong. You may think your sunscreen is doing its job, but the bad news is, it might not be working as hard as you think - and could even be bad for your skin.

According to a study conducted by the Environmental Working Group (EWG, ewg.org), 3 out of 5 name-brand sunscreens "either don't protect skin from sun damage or contain hazardous chemicals -- or both."

It turns out the FDA doesn't require UVA filters (to block the progression of skin cancer and aging) in sunscreens, and most manufacturers have never included them, or provided little protection from them, in their formulations. The alarming fact is most sunscreens only protect from UVB, or sunburn radiation, even though a growing number of studies show that UVA rays (which penetrate the skin more deeply) are more harmful.

Hazardous chemicals, such as oxybenzone, are also not recommended to protect skin from the sun as it has been known to lead to allergic reactions, cell damage, disruption of the hormone system, and allowing for other harmful chemicals to penetrate into the skin.

Based on this EWG study, here are three popular sunscreen you may reconsider using:

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock, SPF 30

While this sunscreen provides a high UVB protection factor, the UVA protection is on the moderate side. In addition, this formula contains Oxybezone as one of its main skin-protecting ingredients, thus making it a possible health hazard.

 

 

 

Coppertone ultraGuard Continuous Spray Sunscreen, SPF 30

The higher SPF is appealing, as is the water-resistant formulation. This too, however, has a low UVA protection factor, contains oxybenzone and fragrance ingredients that my cause skin irritation or sever allergic reactions.

 

 

 

Jason Naturals Cosmetics Sunbrellas: Complete Sunblock, SPF 26

Aside from its low SPF, this "natural" sunscreen contains oxybenzone and provides moderate protection from UVA and UVB radiation. On the positive side, it does contain zinc and titanium, two recommended ingredients for sun-protection.

 

 

 

EWG recommends the following three sunscreens based on their study:

 

 

Soleo Organics Sunscreen Organic Chemical-Free Sunscreen, SPF 30+

This water-restiant formula contains 22% zinc-oxide and highly protects from UVA and UVB rays. It moisturizes skin with grapeseed and sunflower oils, and is suitable for babies, children and adults alike. $24, futurenatural.com

 

 

Mexitan Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50

No need to worry when using this highly-rated sunscreen. Hypoallergenic and eco-friendly, you'll find 22.5% zinc-oxide and 6% titanium dioxide as its main ingredients. $19.95, mexitan.com

 

 

 

Badger Balm Sunscreen SPF 30

This sunscreen is highly recommended for providing a truly high UVA/UVB protection. You can enjoy it knowing that it also contains certified organic extra virgin olive and jojoba oil, cocoa butter, and wild African Shea butter. $15.99, amazon.com

 

 

 

 

See the entire list of sunscreens here.

 

By the end of the year, it will be easier to know which sunscreens give you the most protection; the FDA will be requiring an additional "star rating system" to be added to the normal SPF number on packaging. Ranking sunscreens from 1 to 4 stars, these ratings will be based on two tests that determine the effectiveness of a sunscreen's UVA protection. These tests are similar to the SPF test that is used to determine the effectiveness of UVB protection. 

source and source

Next: Find out our favorite sunscreens that made the grade

 

DuWop Revolotion Bronzing Body Moisturizer is what those of us who use self-tanner call a cult classic. From its silky and smooth finish, to its ability to give a streak-free finish (not to mention its improved non-transfer formula), getting that summer glow is beyond easy with this stuff. 

Bonus: Revolotion contains SPF 15 to go along with the kiss of bronzing pigment and subtle shimmer. $28, beauty.com

  Mix and match to create your own beach beauty look with bareMinerals limited-edition 4-piece SPF 20 eyecolor kit, Sun Proof Fun. This collection of creamy 100% pure bareMinerals features four summery shades protect the delicate skin around your eyes from UVA/UVB sun damage, so you can be captivating in a more carefree way. Try foiling for high intensity color, or apply the shadows dry for a naturally gorgeous look.

Colors included:

.01 oz SPF 20 eyecolor in Sandcastle, a light warm toast

.01 oz SPF 20 eyecolor in Boardwalk, a milk chocolate cocoa

.01 oz SPF 20 eyecolor in Starfish, an iridescent apricot pink

.01 oz SPF 20 multi-tasking minerals in Well-Rested, a cream linen

 

Sun Proof Fun (a $44 value), $28, sephora.com

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and if you are into skincare as much as we are, you make protecting your skin priority #1. Excessive exposure to the sun is one of the main reasons for premature aging, but it is also the cause of more than 90% of skin cancer cases. The good news is that skin cancer is one of the more preventable types of cancer, so take a look at our top sun-protecting product picks (and one to help soothe skin after a day in the sun) that will keep you healthy and protected.

 

 

 

Peter Thomas Roth Instant Mineral Powder SPF 45

We can't help but get behind anything that makes protecting our skin simple and easy on-the-go. This transparent mineral powder, housed with a convenient brush applicator, works immediately to block out the sun's harmful rays. It leaves our our faces shine-free and protected from sunburn and skin damage, no matter where we go. $30, sephora.com

 

 

   

 

 

 

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist SPF 70

This spray-on sunscreen is easy to use and very kid friendly. We find it much easier to spray the kids down, rather than fuss with a lotion-style formula. They think it's fun, too. The mist dries quickly, is waterproof, sweat-proof and even sprays upside down. $9.99, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Clinique Sun SPF 30 Face Cream

This amazing face cream from Clinique offers sun protection that dries to a matte finish. If you are prone to breakouts, there's no need to stress because this is oil-free and even sensitive skin friendly. $17.50, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

Murad Waterproof Sunblock SPF 30

This is one of our favorite sunscreens. Not only does it deliver maximum protection for our skin, but it smells fabulous (no "sunscreen" smell), fights off free-radicals, never leaves our skin super shiny (like other sunscreens sometimes do), and doesn't clog our pores. Thank you Dr. Murad... $30, sephora.com

 

 

 

Oscar Blandi Sun-Shield Spray

Hair also needs to be protected from the sun, especially if it is color treated. Prevent color fade, or use as a styling aid, with this limited-edition spray, and let the "invisible shield" block out harmful UV rays. Formulated with Pro Vitamin B5 to strengthen, rich in vitamins A, D, and E to protect and avocado and jojoba oils to nourish, moisturize and condition hair. $20, sephora.com

 

 

 

Blistex Lip Tone SPF 15

Your lips are probably one area of your face you forget to protect, and wearing gloss or lipstick alone won't give them protection unless it itself contains an SPF. Run this over your lips before applying you favorite lip color and you'll not only create an even base for it to stick to, but you'll also give no reason for the sun to cause any damage to your precious pout. $1.99, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

Korres Yoghurt Cooling Gel

Ideal after any day out in the sun, this ultra-cooling cream gel will provide its user with long-lasting freshness and comfort for the face and body. Yogurt, a natural source of lactose, proteins, and vitamins, hydrates the skin, instantly relieving excessive heat and stinging. Soothes sensitive skin too. $23.50, nordstrom.com

 

Looking for your perfect sunscreen? Sephora has you covered with their new Sun Safety Kit. This collection of skin-protecting products features every type of skincare you can think of. You'll have no excuse for not wearing sunscreen everyday because this array of products will help you find your perfect match. Also, when you purchase this kit, you not only will be doing something good for yourself, but you will be giving back to help others: 100% of the net profits from the sales of this set will be donated to The Skin Cancer Foundation.

This set contains:

- 0.14 oz Murad Essential-C Eye Cream SPF 15

- 0.23 oz DDF Protect and Correct UV Moisturizer SPF 15

- 0.5 oz Jack Black Double Duty Face Moisturizer SPF 20 

- 0.25 oz Peter Thomas Roth Max Sheer All Day Defense Lotion SPF 30

- 1.0 oz Anthony Logistics Facial Moisturizer SPF 15

- 0.1 oz Clarins UV Plus Day Screen High Protection SPF 40

- 0.34 oz Korres Watermelon Sunscreen Face Cream SPF 30

- 0.33 oz Cosmedicine Medi-matte Oil Control Lotion SPF 20

- 0.08 oz Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Cream SPF 55 PA+++

- 0.25 oz Ole Henriksen Herbal Day Cream SPF 15

- 0.4 oz Philosophy Hope in a Jar SPF 20 - 0.25 oz Smashbox Photo Finish UVA/UVB SPF

 15 - 0.01 oz Bare Escentuals BareMinerals Well-Rested for Eyes SPF 30

 

Packaged in an expandable, reusable beach bag. $22.50, sephora.com

 

 

 

If you don't wear sunscreen every day on your body because of its sticky or greasy texture, we recommend that you try Ahava Sun Protection Anti-Aging Moisturizing Spray SPF 15. This sunscreen, enriched with Ahava's own blend of Dead Sea minerals that reduce sun damage, feels light and milky smooth when applied, and absorbs without leaving an oily residue. Now you have no excuses for not protecting your skin. $22, ahavaus.com

Q. I've always wondered, if my foundation is 20 SPF and my moisturizer is 20 SPF, does that add up to 40 SPF? Or is it still just 20 SPF? Basically, what I mean is, if you are layering different products that contain SPF, do you increase the protection?

A. Great question. It seems everything contains a bit of sunscreen these days, whether it's our mineral makeup or our lip balm (which is so important). With all of the layering, something has to give you protection if not double your protection, right? Unfortunately this is not the case. I consulted with Connecticut based dermatologist Dr. Loyd Godwin who indicated that you do not increase SPF by layering two different products. You should always use a sunscreen of at least 15 that provides both UVA and UVB protection.

Summer has come to an end but that doesn't mean you should put away the sunscreen. With all we do to get (and keep) younger-looking skin, a broad-spectrum sunscreen should be the one thing (among others) we don't leave the house without wearing. Protecting your skin is the most important thing you can do to prevent premature aging.

This simple, yet overlooked, cosmetic step can become second nature with these products:

 

Kinesys SPF 30 Spray Sunscreen is an alcohol-free spray that dries quickly and never left a greasy feel. This works fabulously if you plan to outdoors working in the garden or taking a long run, but works just as good for an "around town" day of errands. 1oz., $6, 4oz., $18, kinesys.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kinesys SPF 30 Sun Protection Stick is a convienient way to add sunscreen to our faces while running out the door. This solid stick is purse-friendly and is easily re-applied throughout the day (just apply it before the afternoon re-touch). $12, kinesys.com

 

 

 

 

 

DDF Protect and Correct UV Moisturizer SPF 15 not only protects our skin from the sun's harmful rays, but treats the hyperpigmentation we may have aquired from past acne or sun exposure. The non-greasy formula absorbs beautifully and leaves our skin looking radiant. $58, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Peter Thomas Roth Oil-Free Sunblock SPF 30 works amazingly well, especially for those of us with oily skin! It doesn't cause any additional shine and we are left feeling confident our skin is protected. The bonus: Our skin gets treated well because of the antioxidant vitamins, A and E. $26, beauty.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist SPF 30 is the best when it comes to applying sunscreen in hard to reach places. We love the light mist of spray and quick-drying formula that won't clog our pores and is resistant to water and sweat. $9.99 drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kiss My Face Hot Spots Certified Organic Formula Sunscreen, SPF 30 gives the "green" girl inside of us the satisfaction of knowing that what we are using is natural and contains no weird stuff. With a certified organic base of beeswax, coconut oil, aloe, herbs and wild crafted shea butter this is the perfect choice of sunscreen for our face and lips. $9.19, drugstore.com

 

Bioelements is a high-end, botanically-based skincare product line that uses plant extracts, trace minerals, aromatherapy oils and other natural ingredients to treat common skin concerns- everything from acne to wrinkles. All of their products are free of artificial colorants, synthetic fragrances and pore-clogging oils. These are a few Bioelements products that we are loving right now!

 

 

 

Bioelements Equalizer is an amazing toner that keeps skin well hydrated and looking fresh long after you spray it on. It will never leave your skin feeling tight or dried out thanks to ingredients like chamomile extract and ginseng. We like to spritz it on in the middle of the day to keep us looking fresh after long hours in front of a computer or a day of shopping for the best products!  $26, spalook.com

 

 

Bioelements Instant Emollient relieves even the driest of lips! We keep this by our bedside to ensure we wake up with soft, hydrated lips. This also works wonderfully as a prep fpr lipcolor- simpy apply when you begin your makeup routine, and by the time you are done and ready to add color to your lips, they are smooth and color-ready. $20, spalook.com 

 

 

 

 

Bioelements Oxygen Cocktail glides over our skin like silk, leaving it looking refreshed and feeling smooth. We apply it before moisturizer to ensure our skin looks its best all day. The moisture-binding hyaluronic acid blended with oxygen-boosting Tissue Respiratory Factor Complex creates the ultimate dynamic, effective duo for revitalized skin. $33.50, spalook.com  

 

 

 

Bioelements Sun Diffusing Protector SPF 15 provides our skin with the much needed broad-spectrum protection that we desire. It never feels greasy and didn't cause any breakouts. It's fast-absorbing and comes in a beautiful glass pump that looks fabulous on the counter top- the perfect place to remind us to use it daily. $47, spalook.com