Some people are not taking the risks of sun damage very seriously. Over 80% of our sun damage happens before we’re 18 years old. Skin cancer can be very serious, it is important to talk to your children about it. We can protect ourselves and our children with the proper skin care products. Making good sun care a habit can last a lifetime. Wearing a wide brimmed hat and seeking shade when the sun is at its worst are two good strategies.
Far and away the best face sunscreen for us is Neutrogena. Age Shield Face SPF 70 with helioplex is one we have been using recently. They say it protects skin down to 6 layers deep. In addition there are antioxidants in it to help fight signs of aging. It feels natural on your skin and doesn’t burn or run into our eyes. It is oil free so it won’t clog pores. They also say it resists rub off and is waterproof, so far I’ve found this to be true. This one lasts longer because of it’s high sun protection factor.
We also use their face stick Healthy defense oil-free SPF 30 that is waterproofaand sweat proof. Apply liberally and be careful not to miss any spots like the tops of your ears and your neckline. This is a very useful product, it is easy to apply and good for the little ones. I do think their products are a little expensive. So I called them and they put me on their mailing list, which may include a coupon every now and then. So far we like all their products we’ve tried.
We have tried to use Coppertone face sticks but they were not gentle enough for our skin and eyes. Their products tend to be a little expensive too, but I called them and they said they would send out a coupon for a $1.00 off. They said they would send out a coupon every time you call.
There are many newer mineral sunscreens on the market, both in powder and cream forms. These vary in their protection factors, so read labels carefully. They have fewer chemicals in them so they shouldn’t sting your skin and some are geared for kids also. They have fragrance free products that would be great for the guys. Some of them have a tint, which may even out your skin tone and help it look nice too. These products seem to be even more expensive, but you could try to call and ask for a deal of some kind.
We used the No-ad sun block stick for the face and found that it still was stinging our face and eyes. We had to reapply often to retain maximum protection and we didn’t want to. If you don’t have sensitive skin this may work for you. This product was much more affordable.
Lastly, don’t forget your lips and there are many lip balms out there with sun protection built into them. Blistex is one of them that many of us use during the dry winter months, but it is useful all year.
Remember, a little sun may also do some good; we absorb vitamin D from the sun through our skin and there may be more benefits than that. So don’t panic and just get prepared for the summer months ahead.
Neutrogena Home Page
NIA 24 Sun Damage Prevention 100% Mineral Sunscreen – SPF30 at LovelySkin.com
Peter Thomas Roth Instant Mineral Powder SPF 30 at Skin Dimensions Online
Makeupalley Product Reviews of Bioderma Photoderm Mineral SPF50/PPD22
NoAd Products
Sun Damage to Lips
Health Advice: Children & Sun Exposure
Slide show: Sun damage – MayoClinic.com
Sun-Damaged Skin Pictures Slideshow on MedicineNet.com
Is Sun Good Or Bad For You? – CBS News
