It’s been almost 20 years since Baz Luhrman’s ‘Sunscreen song’ came out. The song’s lyrics highlight an important message of how it’s great for the long term and links other practical advice for happiness as well.
At that time everyone wondered why anyone would make such a song. But it’s these little things that go such a long way to benefit you in the long run.
When it comes to your skin, the only thing that can protect it from sun damage is sunscreen. There are tons of sunscreens on the market, each boasting itself to be your armor against the sun. But do you know that not all of them are good for your skin?
The chemical-based ingredients in sunscreen is not good for the long run because studies have shown that they have a tendency to disrupt the hormonal balance, endocrine levels and thyroid processes in the body. Not to mention that they can also trigger allergies in some people. We created a helpful infographic that clearly explains the correct way to use sunscreen.
What to look out for?
Ingredient names that end in salate or –benzone are chemicals that are harmful for the skin. Mineral based ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide are less harmful but still pose a risk as well.
So what to do?
Before you panic and vow never to use it again, let us reassure you that there is another way. Your best option is to buy a non-chemical based versions that does the same job but without the dangers of messing with your body’s natural processes. These are usually called mineral sunscreen. Always look for natural ingredients such as:
- Antioxidant rich fruit extracts
- Argan or coconut oil
- A minimal amount of zinc oxide
The following are the proper steps to wearing sunscreen:
Apply it thick
If you are heading out and it’s sunny then make sure you apply a thick layer. Use a non-comodegenic version that is light and non-greasy so that it’s easily absorbed. If you only use a light layer than you are probably only getting SPF 30 out of the SPF 50.
Put it directly on your face
Instead of squeezing out a large dollop on your hands, just directly dot areas of your face and start massaging it all over. The amount of sunscreen you apply on your face should be the size of a nickel.
Put on sunscreen first or last?
Chemical varieties can be worn first- before applying other skin products – so the ingredients can properly absorb into your skin. If you use a mineral sunscreen, it’s not necessary to apply first. In fact, if you apply mineral sunscreen last, dermatologists say that it becomes a more protective layer against your skin and the sun. Some foundations have SPF 15 or SPF 30 mixed into them so you can skip the sunscreen if your foundation already has it.
Apply it before you go out in the sun
A common misconception is that one should first head to the beach or poolside and then rub on some sunscreen. Not true. You must apply it 30 minutes before you go outside because it takes time for the sunscreen to be absorbed in the skin and start working. You can reapply it after you have taken a dip in the water for a long period.
Reapply every 90 minutes.
Once you have the correct sunscreen and apply it accordingly, your skin will never have to endure sun damage. Go on and soak the rays without concern!
