Spring Break! The unofficial start of fun in the sun. Finally, fresh air, hikes, time near or on the water. Shedding heavy clothes in exchange for shorts and sunglasses and the feel of the sun on your skin. And, while we all want to add a little glow to our pasty post-Winter complexion, sun safety needs to be the priority. With the excitement of sun-soaked days, this can be overlooked. SPF, specifically Broad Spectrum, should be a part of your daily regimen, just like brushing your teeth.
Respect Your Skin. Those first few days that we start spending extended periods of time outside is when our skin is most sensitive. Think about it, we’ve been covered up for months with long sleeves, hoods and masks. If you plan on organizing a family picnic, days at the beach or are flying off on a long-awaited vacation, remember to include SPF in those plans.
Start with a higher SPF like MDSolarSciences™ Mineral Crème Broad Spectrum SPF 50, or Mineral Moisture Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen (great for dry skin!) These feel-good formulas deliver lightweight, silky-smooth texture that keep face and body moisturized and protected. Gentle enough for the most sensitive skin and suitable for kids 6 months and older. Pack one of these along with your hat and rash guard.
Fake It, Don’t Bake It. While many love the look of tanned skin, there are better ways to get that sun-kissed look. Dr. Christopher Tomassian, a Kansas City dermatologist, with a passion for cosmetic and aesthetic dermatology, is often asked “can you tan with sunscreen on?” His reply? “Laying out in the sun for the purpose of tanning is not recommended. At the end of the day, tanned skin is damaged skin. However, that does not mean you should not enjoy outdoor activities.”
Dr. Tomassian, who loves to educate his clients via social media (Instagram/TikTok: @dr.tomassian) recommends wearing at least SPF 30 and reapplying every two hours. Set a timer on your phone or watch to remind yourself. He also suggests to: “Go for a glow instead, I recommend using a tinted sunscreen to achieve that sun-kissed look.” MDSolarSciences™ Mineral Tinted Crème Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is dermatologist-approved and sweat-resistant. The formula is satiny-smooth, glides on and leaves an instant healthy-looking glow on skin.
Other Sunscreen Tips! Finally, look for sunscreens that contain natural antioxidants, like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, fruit extracts and Zinc Oxide. Read packages to see if they feature cruelty-free and reef safe logos, as well as the coveted seal from the Skin Cancer Foundation.
Above all, enjoy the beautiful weather, have fun and stay sun safe!
To read more about our Reef Safe Sunscreens and formulas, check out this blog.
