If I had to envision the beginning of a perfect day, it would always start with the sun gently tapping on my window. The world really does become a more beautiful, positive and hopeful place when the sun is glistening up in the sky. However, that doesn’t make the sun the friend that keeps us warm and comforts us unconditionally. As scary as it sounds, painful burning, premature aging, wrinkles and skin cancer are all directly associated with exposure to harmful sunrays.
Protecting my skin from the sun has only really become a priority for me in the last few years. It started with the sudden appearance of a few indistinct sun spots here and there on my nose and cheeks. It was just the wakeup call I needed. I took to the World Wide Web, asked around and dedicated my time to keeping up to date on SPF guidelines, learning which sunscreens I should be applying, how and when.
With the warm scent of Summer all over the air, it’s time we get beachy with it here on the blog, talk SPF and size up some sunscreen recommendations.
What To Look For In Your SPF
There is a lot of confusion about how SPF really works and what it means in practical terms. The sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation reaches the earth in the form of UVB and UVA rays. UVB rays cause painful burning and skin cancer. UVA rays can get down into the underlying layers of skin and cause premature skin aging, wrinkling and initiate skin cancer. SPF, which stands for Sun Protection Factor, is a measure of how well a sunscreen will protect the skin from harmful UVB rays. Here are some useful tips:
- Pick a sunscreen that is labeled broad-spectrum, multi-spectrum or UVA/UVB which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Research shows that we generally do not apply enough sunscreen, so higher SPF values offer some safety margin. However, sunscreens with very high SPFs provide a false sense of security and can mislead people into thinking they have more protection than they actually do. Anything above SPF 50 (which blocks 98% of the UVB rays) provides minimal UVB protection. UVA damage can still take place without the skin-reddening appearance. The recommendation is to use products with SPFs no lower than 15 and no higher than 50.
- SPF’s efficacy stays steady for about an hour, and then begins to drop because UV rays break down many sunscreen ingredients. Apply sunscreen every two hours or after you sweat or swim, whichever comes first.
Protect Your Face
SPF has become the ultimate priority of my skincare routine, especially during the hot summer months when the heat is turned up to the max. It’s been a struggle to find a good product that doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin, doesn’t sting my eyes, doesn’t have a white cast, is not greasy, and blends easily into the skin. I’m not a huge fan of the standard SPF scent, so finding a product that is fragrance-free is also something desirable for me. I’ve been really impressed with the Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Broad Spectrum SPF50 for Sensitive Skin.
It is a new formulation of one of Shiseido’s most popular products, it’s mineral-based, free from chemical sunscreen agents, fragrance, alcohol, and parabens, all important requirements in my sunscreen selection. It is hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested and suitable for children as well. I’ve been using it on my face on its own and under foundation a few times a week for the past month. It has a slight white cast once it’s applied, but that disappears quickly as I massage the product into the skin. I love the fact that it doesn’t have a strong scent, doesn’t sting my eyes and is suitable for my toddler as well.
On most hot and torrid summer days, I opt to wear a BB cream instead of foundation. I think I’ve found a real gem in the Lune+Aster BB Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 30 from Bluemercury. It is a lightweight moisturizing tint that covers even the most stubborn imperfections, evens out the skin tone and provides that “your skin but better” flawless look. It is infused with Vitamin E, goji berry and apple seed extracts to deliver antioxidants that protect the skin and provide a healthy glow. I love the fact that it’s paraben and phthalate free, cruelty-free, gluten-free, vegan and dermatologist tested. It has a slight SPF scent to it, but it doesn’t linger much longer after application.
As with all tinted moisturizers, BB and CC creams, it has a dewey and glowy finish, which I actually prefer in the summertime. I’ve been using it for over a month now, and I simply adore it. It lasts on my face all day, doesn’t oxidize and provides a thin layer of comfort to the skin, all the while protecting against harmful UVA/UVB rays.
Protect Your Body
I’ve always preferred a spray SPF for the body as nothing beats the convenience and ease of application. However, the concern with sprays is not applying enough to cover all exposed areas leading to uneven coverage and areas that are left unprotected. The SPF spray that I found, and I have tried and tested quite a few, that doesn’t seem to pose these issues is the La Roche Posay Anthelios Broad Spectrum SPF 60. Formulated with antioxidant technology to protect the skin from free radicals caused by UV rays, this lightweight, fast-absorbing sunscreen has a visible rub-in formula that provides gapless, even coverage ensuring no area is left unprotected. It is free of alcohol, parabens, fragrance, non-comedogenic, and oil-free. It’s dermatologist tested, allergy tested and tested on sensitive skin. It is also water-resistant, ensuring protection while being in the water.
Protect Your Lips
Don’t forget to protect your lips! The skin around the lips is very sensitive and often times goes unprotected from harmful sunrays. My go-to all-in-one lip treatment and SPF 30 broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection is the Coola Liplux. It is a vitamin- and antioxidant-enriched formula with a unique blend of fruit butters like raspberry and avocado, that soothes, nourishes and hydrates the delicate skin of the lips. It is water-resistant, free of parabens, phthalates and sulfates. It’s also cruelty-free, hypoallergenic, certified organic, and made with natural food grade ingredients. It’s quickly become one of my favorite lip balms and I’ve purchased a few already: one for myself, one for my husband and one for my toddler.
Before you head out into the sun this summer, make sure you’re protected. We have so many sunscreen products at our fingertips and no matter which one you choose, the key is to apply, apply enough and reapply. Be mindful that sunscreen is not an excuse to bake. The sun is wonderful and amazing, but not always your best friend!
Such an informative post coming at the perfect time! I never knew that SPF refers only to UVB and that it’s important to look for a broad spectrum product! Great post and beautiful photos!
Thank you so much! Glad you enjoyed the post! ~ Cat L.
Once again you have outdone yourself with another amazing post!! Gorgeous photos, highly informative and no point left out! I love that you included the importance of sunscreen for the lips <3 and discussed the down side to spray formulas. When I see sunburns in the treatment room, more often than not it's as a result of people using spray formulas. Great Recommendations across the board.
Thank you so much, Regina! Such lovely comments to read, comments that inspire me to create contents such as this. I am so glad that you enjoyed the post. I am a big fan of your blog http://www.SkincareReginaVenti.com and your feedback means more than you know. Now off to catch up with your blog! ~ Cat L.
I’ve been looking for a more natural BB cream with good coverage and the Lune and Aster one sounds wonderful! Will check out Bluemercury! Great post and beautiful photos!
Sue
Hi Sue, thank you very much!
The Lune+Aster BB cream from Bluemercury has become a staple in my summer makeup stash and I actually anticipate using it all year round, given that SPF protection is highly recommended in the winter months as well. There are 3 shades in the range (fair, medium, and medium dark), but the formula blends so seamlessly into the skin that the shades are meant to accommodate most skin tones. If you get a chance to try this product, I hope you enjoy it as much as I have. ~ Cat L.
This post was very eye opening for me, because I always would buy the SPF 100 thinking it was best. I also never protected my lips, thank you for writing such a great informative post. I love all your photos too!!! Especially the one with your beautiful son, priceless!!!
Hi Laura, thank you so much for such a lovely comment! I’m glad that you enjoyed the post and found it informative. ~ Cat L.
Very informative Cat. Thank you for sharing your knowledge as the subject is indeed important whether it’s summer or winter. I’m definitely intrigued by Shiseido and Coola lip balm sunscreen – might need to give them a try. Have a sweet evening, beautiful ❤️
Hi Anxhela, thank you for stopping by. I tremendously enjoy your blog, http://luxbubs.blogspot.com so your comments are greatly appreciated. I must admit I’m guilty of not using the Coola sunscreen lip balm as often as I should. I try to apply it under my lipsticks and glosses when I do my makeup and before I leave the house, but I definitely don’t reapply throughout the day. I do however use it on my toddler throughout the day as his lips tend to get chapped, plus the lip balm offers sun protection which is so important for the little ones. Hope you enjoy these products if you get a chance to try them. ~ Cat L.
Such a wonderful post thank you for being so descriptive. I love the sound of Shiseido I will be picking up a bottle for my next holiday. I always wear SPF as like you I have noticed a few sun spots but I am hoping now that I am being more careful with my skin they will slowly fade. Do you recommend anything for pigmentation. Thank you again best wishes Sarah ?
Hi Sarah, thank you for stopping by and for the lovely comments. I like the Shiseido because it doesn’t have that SPF distinct smell and it’s light, which means I can wear it under my regular makeup without feeling like I’m wearing SPF or too many skincare products on my face. As far as pigmentation, the most effective product in my experience has been the Sunday Riley Good Genes. If you’re not allergic to any of the ingredients, it works wonders on brightening up the skin. Kiehl’s also has a good product aimed at treating hyperpigmentation, don’t remember the exact name, but if you go to the store they’ll be able to direct you. Also, using a face oil is something that I recommend incorporating especially into a nighttime skincare routine, as oils help improve skin elasticity, radiance and luminosity and protect the skin against external factors. I like the Sunday Riley Luna Oil, Khiel’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate and the Rosalena Rose Oil and Frank/Sense Oil (all Rosalena products are made in London). All amazing food for the skin! Hope this helps! ~ Cat L.
Thank you for your detailed response I really appreciate it all your suggestions are so useful I have the Luna oil and love it I will have to try the rose oil it sounds lovely. I am using MV organic rose oil at the moment and it’s lovely but nearly finished Thank you thank you ? Sarah (sarahthenelizabeth)
Sarah, it’s always a pleasure to see your comments and talk beauty! Yes, Luna is definitely a great retinol oil, no question about it. Good Genes is also a great Sunday Riley product, a potent exfoliating serum with lactic acid and aiming to brighten the skin, thus helping with pigmentation. Strongly recommend! I also like the Rosalena oils as they are very natural in formulation, free of any harsh chemicals or preservatives. I did a more in-depth post on this brand and their Rose Oil on the blog. They were very gracious to offer a coupon code for 20% off with DailyCatLoves, for those interested in trying their products. I don’t get any benefits from people using the coupon code, it’s just something they were kind enough to offer. Skincare takes a lot of dedication and research, and it seems you’re already on a great path! ~ Cat L.
Great post, very informative. I have been looking into trying the Shiseido one, I am pretty impressed with the ingredients. Definitely going to give it a try after reading this post..
The skin directory x
http://www.theskindirectory.blogspot.co.uk
Hi Maggie, thank you for stopping by and for the lovely comments. I like the Shiseido because it doesn’t have that SPF distinct smell and it’s light, which means I can wear it under my regular makeup without feeling like I’m wearing SPF or too many skincare products on my face. It does have a slight white cast, but it disappears quickly as the product is massaged into the skin! Glad you enjoyed the post! Now off to catch up with your blog http://www.theskindirectory.blogspot.co.uk ~ Cat L.
Thank you for such a great reminder Cat, my favourite sunblock is Obagi having dark skin I have always thought sun protects was not an issue that affected me only to learn, how wrong I was. I will have to try the Laroch posey broad spectrum too to, I might just save some pennies if it works for me.
Great post and to the point, ” sun screen is no excuse to bake ?. ” too right it’s not
Hi Esnath, Thank you for your feedback! I strongly recommend the La Roche Posay. I’ve been pretty impressed with their sunscreen range. I like that there’s no parabens, fragrance and the fact that their formulas are also suitable for children is always a plus! I’m not familiar with Obagi sunscreens, but I think it would be great if you did a post on your blog http://www.prettypeachblossom.com on your favorite SPF products and what works for your skin type. We’re all so different and there really isn’t one brand or product that fits all! ~ Cat L.
Cat thank you, especially all the products you recommended. I’ll definitely pick Shiseido soon.
Thank you for reading my post! I like the Shiseido because it’s the type of sunscreen that the entire family (young and old) can use! It doesn’t have that SPF distinct smell and it’s light, which means I can wear it under my regular makeup without feeling like I’m wearing SPF or too many skincare products on my face. It doesn’t sting the eyes which makes it perfect for those with sensitive skin and kids! I wasn’t a big fan of their original formula, but this new one is great! ~ Cat L.
Lovely final picture Cat! I’m only 21 but I try to do my best to protect my skin almost every day and prevent future damages, I hope in 20 years time I’ll be glad I made the effort. I use Anthelios for my body as well, though I’ll probably only go to the sea in September. I must say I neglect my lips, I’ve never used anything to protect them, I probably will when I go to the sea. As for my face I do protect it everyday with Spf 50 and I’m very proud of myself for doing it religiously. I also like mixing it with a drop of my foundation so that it’s like 2 products in 1 and the colour matches me perfectly.
Have a lovely day!
Silvia
Hi Silvia, thank you for stopping by! I always enjoy reading your comments and following your blog http://www.theSkinCabinet.com It sounds like you’re on the right track and are doing all the things everyone out there should be doing, always protecting your skin from the sun. Your routines are always so lovely and inspiring! ~ Cat L.
Great post Cat! Very informative and I always look forward to your pics, beautiful ! Thanks for adding an extra dose of cuteness at the end. He is so adorable ??
Thank you so much! Such a lovely comment to see! I really appreciate it and glad you enjoyed the post! ~ Cat L.
Love love this post! You know how I feel about Sunscreen and getting the message across of how important it is, so his was a dream to read! I really couldn’t have put it better myself. The importance of skincare and sun care is something I strived to get across in my career of having facial clients and working in the beauty industry. It’s such a simple step but one that must be gotten right so your tips and advice are fantastic.
I love the La Roche-Posay range as I alternate between that and Institute Esterderm but we have so many good sun care brands nowadays thankfully! Love the images as always and the last one I adore. Beautiful!!! A pleasure to read. Kelly xx
http://www.kellilash.com
Kelly, thank you for such kind sweet words! You know how much I adore your blog http://www.kellilash.com so excitement levels are high every time I see a comment from you. As far as sunscreen, you said it: it should be a priority in everyone’s skincare routine. It truly is the number one anti-aging weapon we have. I haven’t used anything from Institute Esterderm but have seen the line and I remember it getting my attention. Now that you also mention it, I need to look into it. Your recommendations are always spot on. Thank you again for stopping by! So glad you enjoyed the post! ~ Cat L.