THE IMPORTANCE OF SUNSCREEN EVERYDAY

Is it necessary to use and wear sunscreen everyday? In short, the answer is YES! The rest of this post I am going to take the time to share with you why, how much to apply, and when to apply. Let’s also dive into the importance of vitamin D and my recommendations for some really good natural sunscreens. Let’s do this!

Why wear sunscreen?

Vitamin D is so important for our bodies. It supports strong bones, strengthens the immune system, and may even help to prevent different kinds of cancer. You are probably aware that excessive and unprotected sun exposure can lead to wrinkles, age spots, and increase the risk of skin cancer, causing a lot of fear, but we shouldn’t fear the sun. By practicing safe sun exposure by using sunscreen on a daily basis, we can safely and efficiently protect our skin from the harmful UV rays from the sun.

 When it comes to sunscreen there is a lot of confusion, most of the sunscreens on the market are “chemical based.” I don’t know about you, but if you have taken steps to live a more natural lifestyle with skincare, no one wants to compromise when it comes to sunscreen. We don’t have to. There are more natural sunscreens that use minerals from the earth to provide sun protection. The minerals that are most commonly used are Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide. Keep in mind that these minerals are quite processed in order to be made into a sunscreen, but they are a much better option than chemical based sunscreens.

How much to apply?

Natural sunscreen is effective, but only when used appropriately. The problem with most sunscreens, whether natural or synthetic, is that people don't use them enough. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are mineral filters that are thick and white in consistency and application. Because of this uniformity, as well as the white cast of mineral sunscreens, consumers tend to apply less rather than more, leaving them more exposed to sunburn and long-term UV damage. Remember that the more sunscreen you apply to your skin, the greater sun protection you'll have. In terms of how much you’ll need to apply: the face should receive about half a teaspoon, while a shot glass should cover the whole body.

When to apply sunscreen?

As a general rule of thumb, sunscreen should be the last product you apply. It's also important to ensure you allow the rest of your products to properly absorb before adding sunscreen on top. Wait a few minutes after you've applied your last skincare product. Don't forget to reapply if you are out in the sun for a while. A hat does well too! I always wear one.

Many influencers claim that mixing sunscreen with moisturizer helps create a nice finish on their skin. This is not recommended, since moisturizer can dilute and reduce the effectiveness of your SPF. Sunscreen and moisturizer should be applied as two separate steps; unless you find a sunscreen that is marketed as a moisturizer + SPF in one.

My recommendations

Cocoon Apothecary for my face.

Living Libations for my body.