Safe SPF

As we head into August, it might feel like the end of summer is right around the corner. In North Carolina, though, with our mild climate, we can enjoy the outdoors year-round. Besides, sunscreen is as important in the other seasons, even winter! In fact, even when the weather is overcast, UV rays can penetrate to ground level and sunscreen protects from sunburns AND is the very best anti-aging preventative skincare! Fine lines, wrinkles, and dull skin are all consequences of years of unprotected and direct sun exposure.  Finally, applying sunscreen daily will not only protect skin but will also preserve and extend a spray tan!

Not all sunscreens are created equal! Read the ingredient labels before choosing one!

Steer clear of sunscreens that contain Oxybenzone, even if you don’t have a spray tan. Not only is Oxybenzone a carcinogen, but it can also cause irritation for people with sensitive skin and it can exacerbate acne. Instead, look for a sunscreen containing Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide. These ingredients block the sun by sitting on top of the skin instead of absorbing it.  Sunscreens with Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide are less likely to clog pores and cause irritation as Oxybenzone can.

Finally, avoid oil-based and aerosol sunscreens. Both of these features accelerate exfoliation. Oil-based sunscreens will soften the dead skin cells, and cause them to detach more easily, thereby fading spray tan. Additionally, aerosol sunscreens contain alcohol, an ingredient known to be drying to the skin and for depleting natural components. Using an aerosol sunscreen will result in a faded or blotchy spray tan.

When shopping for your next sunscreen, look for a physical blocking oil-free sunscreen, free from Oxybenzone! These sunscreens are safe to use and do not contain any damaging ingredients. We recommend the following products from Dermalogica:

Invisible Physical Defense: This is an invisible Broad Spectrum physical sunscreen that blends easily on skin, featuring ultra-sheer Zinc Oxide. Ideal post-skin treatment. It blends easily on all skin tones, protects from UVA and UVB rays and even contains hyaluronic acid, making it extra moisturizing and perfect for sensitive sking!

Prisma Protect: This is a light-activated multitasking moisturizer that provides broad-spectrum defense while preventing future signs of skin damage. It has cucumber, raspberry, and lavender extracts which mean cooling agents for sensitive skin, and it has antiseptic and disinfectant properties. Maybe best of all, it boosts the skin’s natural luminosity.

Protection 50 Sport: This is the power horse of Dermalogica’s sun protection line. It is water-resistant so it’s perfect for the sports enthusiast. It provides full SPF50 and contains Sodium Hyaluronate, a natural component of the skin that holds a thousand times its weight in water, maintaining optimum hydration levels!

Finally, our favorite is the Solar Defense Booster. This can be used alone for full SPF50 or added to your favorite moisturizer or even your foundation! It contains vitamin C and vitamin E, powerful antioxidants that improve skin smoothness and softness and help control damage caused by free radicals. Its sophisticated non-chalky formula forms an invisible shield against skin-damaging environmental assault!

Come by the school soon to pick up your favorite or to talk to a student or instructor about which SPF product is right for you!

Happy August!