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The weather is hot and whether you are catching rays in your yard or soaking up the sun at the beach, using sunscreen has to be part of your summer routine. While SPF numbers and types of protection can be confusing, it’s just a matter of learning the A to Z of sun protection.
A good quality sunscreen will protect you from both UVA and UVB sun rays. According to Mind Body Green, UVA rays can deeply penetrate your skin and damage it. SPF measures a sunscreen’s protection from UVB rays that can cause sunburn and contribute to getting skin cancer. The American Dermatology Association (ADA) recommends using a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
European standards (EWG) are stronger than US standards in requiring protection from both types of skin rays in the SPF labels so ADA says it is a good bet to see if the products you use have European certification or say that they are broad spectrum.
Mind Body Green says to avoid products containing oxybenzone or other dangerous chemicals and go for sunscreens that have minerals like zinc oxide and natural ingredients.
There are special hypoallergenic sunscreen formulas for people with sensitive skin, ones made for babies and children, water-resistant for swimmers, and sweat resistant creams for athletes. Always check the labels to see that the products you use are safe and effective.
Coola Mineral Body Organic Sunscreen - SPF 30
This organic and vegan product has a simple ingredient list and contains a large percentage of non-nano zinc oxide. Coola Mineral Body is formulated with an antioxidant rich plant complex and is hydrating to your skin, water-resistant for 80 minutes, as well as safe to use. This sunscreen has an EWG rating 1 for lowest hazards.
Badger Baby Sunscreen – SPF 30
This gentle hypoallergenic broad-spectrum protection only has seven ingredients including chamomile and calendula. Badger Baby is pediatrician tested, cruelty free, and reef safe. It safely blocks the sun rays with non-nano zinc oxide and is water-resistant for 40 minutes.
All Good Sport Cream – SPF 30
This zinc oxide formulated sunscreen contains organic green tea and rose hips, as well as jojoba and extra-virgin olive oil to moisturize your skin. All Good sport creams and lotions are water-resistant and leaves very little residue so it is good for people with darker skin tones. This eco-friendly sunscreen is EWG rating 1.
Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Mineral Sunscreen – SPF 50
This broad-spectrum mineral formula features naturally-sourced 100 percent zinc oxide. Neutrogena Sheer Zinc is hypoallergenic and free of fragrances, parabens, phthalates, dyes, and skin irritating chemicals. Sweat and water- resistant for up to 80 minutes and has an EWG rating 1.
California Baby Super Sensitive Sunscreen - SPF 30
California Baby is made with citronella, lemon grass, and cedar essential oils as well as minerals. This sunscreen is sensitive skin formulated, water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, broad-spectrum protection, and an EWG rating of 1 make this a very safe choice for babies and children.
Kabana Green Screen Organic Sunscreen – SPF 35
This healthy and effective family-safe sunscreen is free of allergens and has certified organic content including sunflower oil, beeswax, extra virgin olive oil and vitamin D. Using non-nano zinc oxide, Kabana Green provides broad-spectrum protection and has an EWG rating of 1.
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen – SPF 46
Oil Free EltaMd Clear is primarily for faces and helps calm and protect skin types that are acne-prone. This lightweight dermatologist developed cream can be worn under makeup or alone. This sunscreen is fragrance-free, oil-free, paraben-free and it will not clog your pores.
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