Choosing the Right Sunscreen: Your Essential Summer Guide

Paula Gallagher on

Summer has arrived, and so is the time to prioritize skin protection. As we bask in the sun, it's crucial to understand the importance of choosing the right sunscreen. The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a leading organization dedicated to environmental health research and advocacy, provides valuable insights into what to look for in a sunscreen. Here’s a comprehensive guide based on EWG standards to help you make informed decisions.

What to Look for in a Sunscreen

Broad-Spectrum Protection: Choose a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can prematurely age your skin, causing wrinkles and age spots, while UVB rays can burn your skin. Both types contribute to skin cancer risk.

SPF Value: The EWG recommends using sunscreens with an SPF between 30 and 50. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, and anything above SPF 50 offers only a slightly higher level of protection and might give a false sense of security. Higher SPF values can also contain more chemicals, potentially causing skin irritation.

Mineral-Based Ingredients: Opt for sunscreens with mineral-based active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays, providing safer and more effective protection. Avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate, as they can be absorbed into the skin and may have harmful environmental and health effects.

Avoid Harmful Additives: EWG advises against sunscreens with harmful additives like parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances. These chemicals can irritate the skin and have potential long-term health risks.

Water Resistance: If you're swimming or sweating, choose a water-resistant sunscreen. This ensures continuous protection while you're in the water or active. Note that water-resistant sunscreens are labeled as effective for either 40 or 80 minutes of swimming or sweating.

How to Use Sunscreen Effectively

  • Apply Generously and Evenly: Most people don’t use enough sunscreen. Apply a generous amount (around 1 ounce, or enough to fill a shot glass, is recommended for the entire body) and spread it evenly across all exposed skin. Don't forget often-missed spots like the ears, back of the neck, and tops of the feet.
  • Reapply Regularly: Sunscreen should be reapplied at least every two hours and immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. Even water-resistant sunscreens lose their effectiveness over time.
  • Check the Expiry Date: Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time. Check the expiry date on your sunscreen bottle and replace it if it’s past its prime.
  • Complement with Other Protective Measures: Sunscreen should be part of a comprehensive sun protection strategy. Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses, and seek shade during the peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
  • Be Mindful of Application on Children: Children's skin is more sensitive, so choose a sunscreen specifically formulated for kids, which is often free from harsh chemicals and fragrances. For babies under six months, consult a pediatrician before using sunscreen.

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SPF 30 Active Mineral Sunscreen Cream - Badger
BADGER SPF 30 Active Mineral Sunscreen Cream
$16.14 $18.99
$16.14 $18.99
UnscentedBroad Spectrum SPF 30Clear ZincNatural Mineral Sunscreen CreamNon-Whitening, Face & BodyWater Resistant 40 MinNON GMOBio Degradable98% Organic Ingredients & Clear Zinc OxideUses· Helps prevent sunburn· If used as directed with other sun protection measures (see Directions)· Decreases the risk of sun malignancy and early skin aging caused by the sun
sale
Super Shield Sport Stick 50 Spf - Babo Botanicals
BABO BOTANICALS Super Shield Sport Stick 50 Spf
$17.99 $19.99
$17.99 $19.99
Our high performing, convenient, easy-to apply Super Shield SPF 50 sunscreen provides 80 minutes of water and sweat resistance. This 100% Non-Nano Zinc Sunscreen provides SPF 50 Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB protection, plus moisturizes & protects with Organic Shea Butter, Avocado and Jojoba Oils.
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Baby Mineral Sunscreen Spf50 - Babo Botanicals Baby Mineral Sunscreen Spf50 - Babo Botanicals
BABO BOTANICALS Baby Mineral Sunscreen Spf50
$13.49 $14.99
$13.49 $14.99
New SPF 50 Baby Face Mineral Sunscreen Stick glides on sheer. Gently formulated with 100% non nano zinc oxide and 70+% organic Ingredients. Certified by NSF organic. This lightweight baby sunscreen is fragrance free and formulated for very sensitive skin. 80 Minute Water Resistant and Reef Safe. The formula was created by a mom of three.

EWG’s Best Rated Sunscreens

Each year, the EWG releases a guide to sunscreens, highlighting products that meet their stringent criteria for safety and effectiveness. Here are two of their top recommendations and ones that Village Green Apothecary carries.

Badger Active Natural Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30: Known for its simple, effective formula with non-nano zinc oxide.

Babo Botanicals Super Shield Sport Sunscreen Stick, SPF 50: Created with natural origin zinc oxide to provide broad spectrum SPF50 protection and 17 plant-based ingredients including moisturizing sunflower oil and calendula.

Choosing the right sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays and reducing the risk of skin cancer. By following the EWG standards, you can select a sunscreen that is both effective and safe for you and the environment. Remember, proper application and reapplication are key to maximizing your sunscreen’s protective benefits. Stay sun-safe and enjoy your time outdoors!

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