I’m sure when we were growing up, we heard this a zillion times, “PUT ON YOUR SUNSCREEN!” Of course we listened (some of the time), but the other times we ended up with the dreaded sunburn. Back then, we didn’t really understand the harmful effects of a sunburn. What we did know was that it was incredibly uncomfortable, dare I say, painful, for a few days, red as a tomato, and eventually blistering and peeling. Keep reading to find your cruelty free sunscreen superhero!
Now that we are all grown up, we understand the WHY behind wearing sunscreen on a regular basis.
- lowers the risk of skin cancer
- prevents sunburn
- protects feet, hair, and everywhere 😉
- slows down the premature aging of skin
- helps prevent skin spots and discoloration
Our bodies need protection from the harmful UV rays of the sun.
There are two main types of these rays, UVA, which make up approximately 95% and UVB, which makes up the remainder. Although UVB is much less prevalent, it is just as bad for us. The long-term effects of a sunburn are pretty awful:
- significant risk factor for skin cancer
- accelerated skin aging
- gradual loss of skin elasticity
- dry, coarse skin
- blistering & peeling
I wear sunscreen on a daily basis, mainly on the face, neck, and arms as those are what I usually have exposed as I drive around, shuttling the kids to their activities, shopping for groceries (or beauty products…hee hee). Currently I’m using the Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen with SPF50; I am into my 2nd 1 oz container. I happen to like this sunscreen because it’s oil free and super lightweight, plus it is one of the highest SPF’s I have been able to find in a lightweight everyday lotion. I also highly recommend the Josie Maran Argan Daily Moisturizer with SPF47…Check it out on my Spring 2015 Cruelty Free Top 3 in Skincare post as a Lucy’s Cruelty Free fave!
Here are the basics – you want sunscreen to have a minimum SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30. It should be applied 30 minutes prior to sun exposure – I try to get it done before we head out on our next adventure so that it’s completely absorbed by the time we hit the water. If the kids want to jump in the pool at home, I will have them apply and assign each one of them a chore. A quick sweep of their bedroom, folding a load of laundry, or making the bed can easily become 30 minutes.
What does SPF even mean really?
So, in layman’s terms, SPF (Sun Protection Factor) indicates how well a sunscreen will provide UV protection. The SPF rating is how basically how long you can stay in the sun without burning while wearing sunscreen, versus how long you can stay in the sun before burning without wearing sunscreen.
For maximum protection, sunscreen should also be applied every 2 to 3 hours. I try to get everyone to take a snack break around that time and usually everyone is dry enough for reapplication by the time they are done eating and ready to have some more fun! 😊
Of course, I want to make the sunscreen decision as easy as possible for you so…I put together a list of 10 cruelty free sunscreens (some of which are also vegan) to use – enjoying the summer – soaking up the sun & protecting our hot bods 😏
Summer is a great time to pull off some really cute looks. Sunglasses and a floppy hat are a must for out on the boat, lounging by the pool or laying on the beach❤ These versatile accessories also work double duty as sun protection for our head (scalp and hair) and eyes. Did you know you could sunburn your eyes??? OUCH!!!
What’s your favorite trick for remembering to apply sunscreen before heading out and reapplying throughout the day? Let me know in the comments below!
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Cruelty free lucy 
