How to choose the right sunscreen for you

Woohoo! Summer is in full affect and with that we are reminded by magazines and news commentary the importance of sunscreen and the damaging effects of the sun. It used to be, "just put sunscreen on when you are going to the beach." Now almost every daily skin cream has some sort of SPF in it. Hampton Sun offers a Super Hydrating SPF 15 for daily use or if you feel you need more coverage Elizabeth Arden has an 8 hour Sun Defense that has an SPF 50. BUT... how do you know if you're actually choosing the correct sunscreen for YOU. Well here you go...

Ask yourself, how long does it take me to burn being the sun? Let's say it takes 10 minutes (for the sake of easy math). So if you choose an SPF of 15, you are protected for 150 minutes or 2-1/2 hours before you have to reapply. Or if you choose an SPF 30, you'll be protected for 300 minutes.

Here's the formula: Take minutes of exposure to burn (10) x SPF # (15) = 150 minutes.

Pretty simple! Keep in mind though, the higher the SPF, the thicker and harder it is to apply to your skin. Also, for body sunscreens it's better to choose a lotion than a cream for easier application and you'll be less likely to miss spots.

Now, we all don't have flawless skin like Jennifer Anniston, so take into consideration your skin type. Are you acne prone or have oily skin? Maybe look into using an oil free lotion or one that won't block your pores.

One of my all time favs, is Sun Putty. It's a completely natural, bio-degradable sunscreen with an SPF 30. It goes on very easy, smells D-lish (like orange Popsicle) and even better has ingredients that prevent blemishes. When my family goes to the river and is out in the intense 110 degree sun , Sun Putty stays on all day, even going in and out of the water and doesn't run into your eyes. I'll even use it on my kid's sensitive skin and don't have to worry about their skin burning.

With all the choices that you have for sunscreens, remember you know your skin better than anyone else. Choose responsibly, your skin will thank you!

Until next week, my lovelies...

Cheers!