As Summer approaches, it’s time to go through that old beach bag of leftover sunscreens and figure out what stays and goes. Afterall, good sun care starts with owning quality sunscreen products. Sunscreens are required to remain at their original strengths for at least three years per the FDA. (That’s good news for any sunscreen leftover from last season!) However, it’s a good idea to check the expiration dates on all sunscreens and discard any that are nearing their end date. Here are our tips for replacing those sunscreens with clean, non-chemical screens and what that all means.
To understand sunscreen choices, you need to know there are two major types of sunscreens – physical & chemical. Physical sunscreens, more commonly known as “mineral sunscreens,” work by creating a physical barrier on the skin that shields you from the sun’s rays. Physical sunscreens contain zinc oxide which acts as that barrierto prevent all of the sun’s rays from getting to us. What’s great about zinc oxide is that it does not penetrate the skin, or convert to anything harmful once it comes in contact with the sun’s rays. And it’s reef-friendly and safe for the environment. On the opposite spectrum are chemical sunscreens. These sunscreens typically contain things like oxybenzone or octinoxate and only block some of the sun’s rays. These chemicals can often be converted to potentially more dangerous substances once they come in contact with the sun
on our skin and are NOT reef-friendly.
Here are our favorite mineral-based sunscreen picks to explore this season!
One of our all-time favorite safe sunscreens is Badger. A brand that’s about ingredients which are minimally processed and grown in nature. Badger sunscreens use mineral zinc oxide, the safest active ingredient available for effective broad-spectrum protection. Every formula is safe for coral reefs, manufactured with 100% solar power, and certified cruelty-free.
Badger Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
A daily moisturizer and sunscreen for all skin tones. Lightweight and waterless, this sunscreen and body moisturizer is perfect for everyday use. The non-greasy formula provides SPF 30 broad-spectrum protection with ultra-sheer zinc oxide for effortless blending, a natural silky finish, and 40 minutes of water resistance. Moisturizing, vegan and reef-safe.
Badger Face Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
Perfect for daily use. This lightweight sunscreen and facial moisturizer is made for all skin tones and leaves a luxurious, natural matte finish. The ultra-sheer formula is dermatologist-tested and provides SPF 30 broad-spectrum protection and 40 minutes of water resistance. Golden seaweed extract soothes and nourishes your skin while offering blue light protection, and sheer zinc oxide provides effortless blending and sun protection. Moisturizing, vegan, and reef-safe.
For the Littles in your life:
Kids Natural Mineral Sunscreen in Tangerine & Vanilla – Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Kids will crave the dreamy creamsicle smell and parents will love how super rich it is with oils and beeswax to give it excellent staying power.
Badger Baby Mineral Sunscreen Cream – Broad Spectrum SPF 40
Safely protect those babies and toddlers with a pediatrician-tested sunscreen cream. With just 7 simple ingredients, this natural zinc oxide has sunflower oil and vitamin E for smooth application on those squirmy little ones.
Looking for sunscreen with no white cast? Try any of Badger’s Clear Zinc formulas which absorb quickly with no white residue.
No matter what sunscreen you choose, remember these tips to help reduce your sun risk and protect yourself. Your skin will thank you later.
- Get some shade. Limit time in the sun between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. This is when the sun’s rays are most intense.
- Up your coverage. Wear protective clothing that covers skin that is exposed to the sun. Add a hat with a wide brim and your style game will be on par.
- Reapply! Set a timer on your phone so you remember to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours.
- Don’t forget some fashionable sunnies to cover those eyes. Proper sunglasses should have 100% protection from both UVB and UVA rays.
- Hydrate your body. Sun exposure usually means your body will also start to sweat. Ensure you maintain proper hydration by bringing a water bottle and drinking often. Your skin will thank you! (And don’t forget to moisturize your skin when you get back home for added hydration.)
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