The sun is out, swimsuits are flying off the racks at Target, and summertime in Wisconsin is in full swing. And, while this season is a treasured one here, we don’t always do the best job of caring for our skin, specifically when it comes to protecting it from the sun. 

So today we are going to chat a little bit about SPF, why it matters, and what we have for you in the studio so that you can enjoy the summer months fully, while also protecting that beautiful skin of yours! 

Why, exactly, does sunblock matter? 

I’m going to let you in on one of the scariest, but preventable skincare facts. UV rays (the rays that come from the sun) are responsible for 90% of our skin’s aging. That means that those nastly little rays that feel oh so good against our skin are actually NOT our best friend. Instead, they are our skin’s nemesis slowly aiding in the creation of sun spots, sagging skin, wrinkles, and other frightening skin concerns. Yikes! 

We have a simple preventative solution to this problem though — sunscreen, of course! By incorporating sunscreen into your daily beauty routine (because yes, you need sunscreen all year ‘round), you can do wonders for your skin and combat one of the biggest aging concerns of all time, all while still enjoying that warm sun out on the patio. Now that sounds like a bestie to me! 

Chemical vs. Physical sunscreens: What is right for me? 

It is also important to understand what type of sunscreen to use to best protect your skin. There are two different types of sunscreen, chemical and physical, and each have their own unique style of protection. However, one is going to do a much better job at keeping you and the overall health of your skin safe. 

Chemical Blockers

A chemical blocker is exactly what it says it is — a blocker filled with chemicals that are stopping the sun from burning your skin. However, because this sunscreen absorbs right into the surface of your skin, you are, in some way, required to absorb the sun in order for it to work. Not a great start. Not only that, but chemical SPFs are also loaded with other chemicals like parabens, sulfates, alcohol which can cause more reactions into the skin as well. Yuck, no thank you! 

Physical Blockers

Now, a physical blocker puts a physical block on top of the skin. And the thing that physically protects you from the sun? The magical zinc oxide. This stuff is gold, my friends. When shopping around for the best physical sunscreen, you will want to look for a larger molecule of zinc oxide because this is what physically blocks you from getting sunburn. And, not only does zinc oxide protect you from the sun, it is also a mineral which means that it is good for your skin! Not only that, but rather than being filled with other chemicals, it is infused with other minerals like aloe and other conditioning agents, all with the job of improving your skin while protecting you. Mineral sunscreen rocks, y’all! 

How should I apply sunscreen? 

While I would like to say that SPF is a one-and-done part of your daily skincare routine, it is actually something that you need to continue to reapply throughout the day to keep your skin protected. The solution? Pack ahead. Stock your purse with a mineral sunscreen for your face and body, a skin-protecting primer to apply before makeup, and a broad-spectrum powder for quick and easy application throughout the day. This way you will always have what you need and it will quickly just because a part of your routine. It is also so, so important to follow your specific SPF number and reapplication directions to ensure that you are keeping those harmful UV rays away from your skin. 

What are some recommendations we have for SPF?

While we now know that it is essential to wear SPF to keep your skin looking young, youthful and healthy, we also know that finding the right sunscreen for you and your skin can be a tricky business, which is why we are going to share with you a few of our studio favorites. These sunscreens apply like a dream, keep your makeup looking fresh, and, most importantly: protect your beautiful skin from getting burnt and crispy. 

Sunscreen Primers and Moisturizers

Vanilla Tropical Day Cream (SPF 32)

This wonderful mattefying, medium-rich hydrator is something I use in the morning as my moisturizer. This beauty is safe around eyes and can be used on the neck and decollete. Not only that, it smells like a dream. Can’t go wrong there! 

Lilikoi Light Defense Face Primer (SPF 23) 

This primer packs a punch with its majesty of protection. Not only does it protect you from UVA rays, it also guards your skin from the UVB rays that come from your phone, computer, and other technology that you are exposed to throughout the day. This blue light protector comes as a creamy serum, and pairs amazingly under makeup. The only additional recommendation is that if you have dry skin, you may want to use a hydrator first. 

Sunscreens

Lilikoi Mineral Defense Sport Sunscreen (SPF 30) 

This mineral sunscreen is a medium-rich SPF and is perfect for those summer beach days. Because of its consistency, we do recommend using the Stone Crop Moisturizer for blending as mineral sunscreens can have a harder time absorbing right away. With a clean, fresh scent you can’t go wrong here! 

Rhonda Allison Broad Spectrum Sunscreen (SPF 35) 

Lightweight, non-greasy, perfectly formulated for everyday wear, this is a sunscreen I believe everyone will love. I use this daily around my eyes, on my neck, decollete and ears. I am obsessed with this SPF and want to get it into the hands of everyone I know! 

Eminence Sun Defense Mineral Powder (SPF 30) 

Found in either translucent or light coverage, this baby is great to throw in your purse and carry with you throughout the day. Because SPF needs to be reapplied throughout the day (you know, because sweat and stuff moves your perfectly applied makeup and sunscreen around), this powder makes that process a breeze, allowing you to touch up and go with the swipe of a brush. I love it, and I know you will too!