Protect Your Skin By Using Natural Sunblock

Some people are under the mistaken assumption that the only time to use natural sunblock is on especially hot and sunny days. The truth is that anytime that we’re out in the sun, the sun’s rays are having a negative impact on our skin. There is a constant barrage of ultraviolet light that can cause our skin to age before it’s time, and it can lead to more serious skin problems in the long term. Even on days when it’s not all that hot outside, it is a good idea to use natural sunblock.

With that said, natural sunscreenblock is still most needed when a person is spending a day out in the sun, especially if they’re trying to tan. This is when there is the biggest risk of sunburn, which is a direct result of intense sun exposure
. It’s important to understand how to choose the right natural sunblock for the job. SPF, or sun protection factor, is the rating system that is used to determine the strength of a natural sunblock. Usually, a minimum sun protection factor of 15 is recommended for tanning or prolonged sun exposure. However, much more powerful levels of protection are available — up to a 60 SPF rating or more.

There is another factor to consider, as well. There are multiple types of ultraviolet light rays that are harmful to the skin — UVA and UVB. Many natural sunblock are designed to effectively block only one UVB rays, while UVA are actually the more dangerous type. It is a good idea to look for a natural sunblock that is designed to block both types of rays. Natural sunblock that contain the ingredients zinc oxide, ecamsule, or avobenzone are the best choices for full-spectrum protection.

When it comes to just routine daily sun exposure, a full application of natural sunblock isn’t really necessary. If you’re just eating lunch outdoors or walking for a little while outside, then you should be okay just using other skin-care products that contain minor natural sunblock. For example, there are many facial moisturizers that include enough natural sunblock to protect your skin from the sun’s rays on a day-to-day basis.

One of the negative effects associated with sun exposure to the skin is wrinkling. The sun is one of the primary factors when it comes to skin starting to look aged before it’s time. For people who are concerned about aging and wrinkled skin, there are special natural sunblock treatments that are design both to reduce and prevent wrinkles. Many of these have high SPF ratings for maximum protection from the sun’s light.

Aside from wrinkles, the other major impact of the sun on human skin is skin cancer. Heavy exposure to the sun without the proper protection can lead to a person developing deadly skin cancers. This is one reason why it’s especially important to get natural sunblock that protects against UVA rays. Despite the fact that UVA doesn’t cause any burning sensation or redness, it is actually the primary cause of skin cancer. So when you’re looking to buy natural sunblock, make sure that you make an educated choice that will truly protect you from skin problems.

10 Great Natural Sunblock Tips

Natural sunblock is used by many people to help prevent sun burn and skin cancer. Recently, many natural sunblocks came under attack for not protecting people from skin cancer and sun burn. Federal Drug Administration in the US does not have any standard for natural sunblock protection as of now. So the question becomes how do you know what natural sunblock to use and which ones not to use? These helpful tips provided below, you can avoid sunburn and protect yourself against skin caner.

Tip #1 Use Natural sunblock With A SPF Of 30 Or Higher

SPF 30 provides protection for most of the day. For example if you get sun burn in 10 minutes, SPF 30 will protect you for 300 minutes. If you use SPF 15, you will be protected from the sun for 150 minutes. SPF does not prevent you from tanning. This is a misconception which causes people to use a lower SPF. People will tan no matter which SPF that they are using.

Tip #2 Make Sure To Use A Broad Spectrum Natural sunblock

Broad spectrum natural sunblock protects both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are present even when there is no sun and can lead to skin cancers. UVB rays are present when there is sun light out. People tan with UVB and UVB causes sun burn and also cancer if the skin in not protected.

Tip #3 Be Sure To Reapply Natural sunblock Early And Often

Water breaks down natural sunblock even if the product is water proof. The sun will also break down your natural sunblock over time. Reapply natural sunblock at least once every hour if you are out in a pool. Be sure to use your sun screen daily.

Tip #4 Be Sure To Apply Natural sunblock Even If You Are Just Resting In The Shade Away From Sun Light

This is because UVA rays are present even when there is no direct sun light.

Tip #5 Be Sure To Avoid Natural sunblock That Contain Oxybenzone

Oxybenzone is a toxic natural sunblock that soaks into the skin which might be a contributing factor to skin cancer. Instead look for natural natural sunblock that contains Zinc Oxide or Titanium oxide.

Tip #6 Buy New Natural sunblock Every Year

Most sun screen do not protect as well after 12 months because the ingredients start to lose the amount of sun protection that they can give.

Tip #7 Take A Break At Midday

Midday or peak sun is also a good time to get out of the sun and take a break indoors. The sun is strongest at this point. The sun is strongest between 12:00PM and 3:00PM.

Tip #8 Wear Sun Glasses, Hats And Tight Shirts

Wear UV sunglasses to protect your eyes, hat to protect your scalp and tight shirt to protect your body from the sun.

Tip #9 Take Special Care When Going To The Beach

Natural sunblock may need to be reapplied more frequently since the sand and the water reflect the sun creating a stronger UVB ray. Higher altitudes also gives the sun more intensity.

Tip #10 Be Sure To Drink Plenty Of Water

Water keeps your skin hydrated and improves the protection of your natural sunblock.

What is Natural Sunblock?

Sunblock is different than sunscreen. A natural sunblock physically blocks the sun’s UV radiation of the skin, both UVA and UVB. Examples of natural sunblock are clothing, umbrellas, and trees. Chemical sunblock scatters, reflects, and physically blocks UV radiation. The most well-known chemical sunblock is zinc oxide. Other commonly used sunblock is talc, titanium dioxide, and red vetenary petrolatum.

Sunblock does have some disadvantages. Many older chemical sunblock is opaque, the skin can not be seen through the sunblock. This may not be cosmetically acceptable for many people. They can also be greasy and clog pores, a problem for people with acne-prone skin.

A new natural sunblock formulation has been developed that contains micronized titanium dioxide. The advantage of this formulation is that it is almost invisible and still has good UV blocking capabilities.

Natural Skin Care Is Going New Places

Natural skin care offers a bright future for those who embrace it, although there are many analyst who believe the road ahead may be unknown. The large growth of natural skin care products in the beauty product market primarily stems from consumers want a safer alternative to many synthetic based skin care products. Several cosmetic chemists have spoken out that even though some of these synthetic skin care ingredients are altered they still are derived from a natural source. However the majority of synthetics undergo chemical processing which will alter the natural skin care ingredient beyond the point of return to its natural state. As processing continues to progress perhaps there will be advancements in the altercation process.

Another large road block in the natural skincare product market is the lack of natural ingredients. Because these natural skin care ingredients are grown it suggests that if the demand continues to grow the potential supply of natural skin care ingredients could become limited. This is especially the case in organic skin care ingredients which make up a portion of the overall natural skin care product market. The good news with many of these organic skincare ingredients is they are grown relatively easily and are abundant. However there are some ingredients like organic rose oil which will becomes a prime commodity and highly sought after because of their uniqueness, limited availability globally, and challenges in cultivation.

The final major factor in the natural skin care product market is preservation. Although several companies suggest they are 100% natural, many use a small portion of naturally altered ingredients to allow for longer shelf life. Basic organic chemistry will answer a simple question of how long shelf life can be expected with a water based product. Most will claim you are limited to 6 months with a water based natural skin care product that uses natural skin care preservative systems like grapefruit seed extract. The other option is to use a gel based natural skin care product. The gel does limit your exposure to bacterial, fungi and other spoiling agents found in all water. However gel based natural skin care production can get costly and greatly affect the consistency of the final natural skin care product.

Time will tell what the natural skin care product market will be. If large beauty product companies continue to develop natural skin care products the outlook is very promising. Consumers will be offered new natural skin care products with the latest production techniques and the most advanced research behind their development. Today, the natural skin care product market is consistently introducing new products like organic sunscreen, herbal anti aging products, natural body lotion, and natural baby skin care products.

Why Moms Use Organic Skin Care Products

Pregnant women are becoming more aware of the potential harmful effects of introducing toxins from main stream skin care products infused with synthetic chemicals.  Organic skin care products are a great alternative with added benefits.  100% natural organic skin care ingredients can provide nutritional benefits through the absorption process.  Essential oils, plant extracts, natural vitamins and anti oxidants are the most common base ingredients of organic skin care products.  Each natural skin care ingredient will perform the same function as many of the synthetic ingredients without the risk of exposure to carcinogenics.  The growing organic skincare product market offers more and more skin care products that are safe, clean, and pure.

Natural Skin Care Products Are Quickly Emerging

Natural skin care products are a quickly emerging market.  Everyday there are new combinations of natural ingredients found.  Natural body lotion, herbal anti aging products, organic sunscreen make up a large portion of the growing natural skin care market.  Consumers are realizing the importance of avoiding synthetic ingredients which can often pose as a toxic exposure to our bodies.  In addition new research has found natural skincare products can provide a health benefit in balancing the overall wellness of the body.  With more and more organic raw products being grown globally it provides the foundation for the increased production of the final end natural skin care product.  Lastly decreases in shipping have contributed to the rising natural skincare market and an increase in consumer use.

FAQ on Sunscreens and Sunburns

1. “How Much Sunscreen Should I Apply?”

The average user of sunscreen tends to use significantly less sunscreen than the amount required to achieve the SPF listed on the container.

2. “How Often Should I Apply Sunscreen When I’m Out In The Sun?’”

Many experts recommend that frequent application during sun exposure is required. However, a group of children were tested by spreading on 1 application of sunscreen to one side of their bodies, and four applications to the other.

They then spent 6 hours in the sun. One application provided the same level of protection as four applications, confirming the adequacy of a single daily application of a sunscreen in that situation.

3. “How Long Before Sun Exposure Should I Apply Sunscreen To My Skin?”

As molecules of sunscreen are present in their active state in the sunscreen, sunscreens work immediately upon application. The only reason for application early is to allow absorption into the skin so that the sunscreen is less likely to be washed off, should the person be entering the water. Even so, modern sunscreens are quite resistant to removal from the skin.

4. “Sun Protection Factor (SPF) – What Is It?”

SPF is the ratio of the minimal ultraviolet dose required to produce redness with and without a sunscreen. For example, if it took ½ hour for your skin to become sunburned without any sunscreen, then for a sunscreen that has a 15 SPF rating, you could stay in the sun for 15 times longer (or 7.5 hours) before you get sunburned. This is provided, of course, that you’ve applied the sunscreen properly so that you’re getting the prescribed protection.

5. “Reactions To Sunscreens?”

Sunscreens can be both an irritant and an allergen, though allergic reactions are rare. Irritant reactions, however, abound. One classic error in sunscreen application is to put a large amount of sunscreen on the forehead. Perspiration and gravity can cause the sunscreen to migrate down your forehead into your eyes, causing a stinging sensation. Some people attribute this to an allergic reaction and discontinue use. It’s also important to wash your hands after applying sunscreen, since rubbing your sunscreen covered finger near your eyes can induce an irritant reaction.

6. “Why Is It Important To Use Sunscreens During Childhood?”

It appears that a great deal of time can elapse between actual sun damage and the development of skin cancer or other skin problems like photoaging. Therefore, it is important to protect your skin from an early age when you are out in the sun.

7. “Sunscreens And The Elderly?”

Many elderly people can become quite obsessed by sun avoidance, and their quality of life can suffer. Sometimes, if they are diagnosed with an actinic keratosis or basal cell carcinoma, they can become anxious and almost leap from shadow to shadow. However, few of them are likely to develop new skin cancers from present sun exposure. As long as they are prudent about avoiding excessive sun exposure and protecting their skin to prevent sunburn, they can continue to enjoy time outdoors.

8. “Can Sunscreens Prevent Cancer?”

There is clear evidence that sunscreens are helpful in preventing actinic keratoses, which are warty lesions that can occur on sun-exposed skin of the face or hands. Research has shown that these lesions can develop into a cancer called squamous cell carcinoma, and that this is linked to a cumulative exposure to the sun.

However, there is surprisingly little evidence that sunscreens have much effect in preventing another kind of skin cancer called basal cell carcinoma, or for malignant melanoma. For malignant melanoma and for basal cell carcinoma, the character and timing, that is, the type of sunlight and your age at the time of the exposure to the sun appears to be more important than the cumulative dose.

Adapted from an article by David I. McLean, MD, and Richard Gallagher, MA.

Keeping Your Skin Firm and Elastic Help With Sun Exposure

With all the marketing material out there is can be a challenge to sort through which skin care products and ingredient make a more effective skin care product. For starters depending on the function of the lotion it will contain different ingredients A natural skincare product with antioxidants and organic ingredients can help your body to rejuvenate itself and keep your skin looking young.

With prices ranging from 4.99 to well over $100 natural skincare lotions will suit everyone’s purpose. Not to say the expensive stuff is the best, but the ingredients are key. A lot of the cheaper products are made with inexpensive fillers like mineral oil which is a petroleum product that suffocates your skin by holding in the toxins. They also may have sodium lauryl sulfate which can rob your skin of precious moisture. Why bother with ingredients that can be harmful or irritating?

The best firming lotion will have healthy, good for you ingredients that help your skin regenerate itself from the inside. A good skin firming lotion review will consider the long term implications of ingredients and recommend products that are natural and have ingredients that are time proven to aid in firming the skin and preventing wrinkles.

Helping your body make more collagen is one of the best ways to keep your skin firm. This important protein keeps your skin firm and smooth but your body slows down its production of collagen as you age and that’s what starts the sagging and wrinkles. Many lotions feature collagen as an ingredient but you can’t stimulate collagen production by putting it on your skin. Your body has to make its own to be useful.

So, what can help you produce more collagen? Cynergy TK is an ingredient that contains Functional Keratin. This is extracted from the wool of New Zealand sheep and is so close to what your bodies produce that it tricks your body into thinking it is “you” and stimulates our cells to make more collagen and elastin. Combined, these proteins are the very essence of keeping our skin smooth and young looking. In addition to making more collagen, using a product with lots of antioxidants is going to help fight aging and keep our skin firm by neutralizing environmental hazards like free radicals.

A powerful antioxidant is CoEnzyme Q10 (CQ10), you may already take this in a supplement form but you can also find it in the best firming lotion. A good skin firming lotion review should let you know if it’s in a nano emulsion formula for maximum benefit. This just means it’s in microscopic particles and penetrates 7 layers deep to eat up free radicals. Nano-Lipobelle H EQ10 is the most effective form of this vitamin like substance on the market today.

Other great antioxidants you can look for in your skin care are Natural Vitamin E, Grapeseed Oil, jojoba oil and avocado oil.

Using Fragrance and Chemical Free Products

Although many products today are labeled “fragrance free,” that is really a misnomer. Nearly all products contain some fragrance to mask their chemical odor; so-called fragrance-free products may just contain fewer chemicals than others. What’s more, the fragrances used in many products (even pricey perfumes) are commonly synthetic. For sensitive individuals, this chemical brew can be a problem To make matters worse, many natural fragrances are now extracted using harsh solvents rather than old-fashioned distillation methods, in which fewer chemicals come into contact with the essential oil of the flower. Unless you can determine the extraction method used, be cautious. This is one reason many individuals react negatively to the essential oils used in aromatherapy massages and related products – many are of a synthetic, chemical composition.

According to several studies, various preservatives including formaldehyde, parabens, and others commonly used in skin, hair, and beauty products can also provoke allergic reactions. Although the preservatives are needed to maintain product shelf life and only minute amounts are present in any given product, many products contain these same chemicals, including skin care products, makeup, medications, antiperspirants, toothpaste, and foods. Many of these products are used on a daily basis, causing a higher reaction rate. As a result, the overall exposure to these harmful ingredients is higher than would occur if only a single product were used. Studies show that massage therapists have more contact dermatitis – or skin inflammation – due to exposure to these extracts.  Until recently, few studies investigated the cumulative impact of repeated exposures to preservatives in a variety of products and ingredients. For the majority of people, these product preservatives are an additional benefit, not a problem. But, as the chemical compositions increase, so do the allergic reactions.

If you suffer from sensitive, allergic skin or severe dry skin, you may be among those who will have a problem or reaction to these chemical-laden products. In this case, it is your role as an informed consumer to carefully read labels for all products that come into contact with your skin – internally or externally- to assure that they don’t contain the listed ingredients that you must avoid. Your skin barrier does a lot to protect you naturally, help it out when you can and feed it nourishing chemical-free products whenever you can.

Common Myths About Sunscreen and SPF

Sun protection has become a way of life for individuals, who are intent on keeping their skin healthy, and avoiding wrinkles and leathery skin. Getting sunburn repeatedly can increase your chance of getting skin cancer. Melanoma in children has been increasing each year! So it is important for us all to take a practical approach and properly use natural or organic sunscreen and develop healthy skin care habits. Surprisingly, not everyone knows how to apply sunscreen. Only a small percent of the population uses sunscreen protection and only half of those people apply sunscreen correctly. In addition, regardless of the SPF or what the label says, sunscreens must be reapplied every 80 minutes or less. Sunscreen users mistakenly believe that high Sun Protection Factor (SPF) sunscreen products will protect them all day with one application, when in fact; all sunscreens must be reapplied regularly.Two Sunscreen Myths

Myth: Sunblock provides total sun block.
Truth: No sunscreen blocks 100 percent of Ultra Violet (UV) rays. SPF 15 can protect against 93 percent. SPF 30 protects against 97 percent. SPF 50-60 shuts out 98 percent. The higher the SPF the more harsh chemicals are in the product.

Myth: An SPF 60+ sunscreen provides double the protection of an SPF 30 sunscreen.
Truth: This is exactly why the FDA is putting a cap on high SPFs. SPF 30 provides skin with 97% protection, where as SPF 60 provides skin with 98-98.6% protection. There is less than 1.6% difference in protection factor. A SPF 60+ needs more chemicals to achieve a higher SPF, potentially putting more toxins in your body.

The real confusion to consumers has been what a product can do and can’t do. There are a number of natural sunscreen products are available on the market today. The trick is to become educated! Do you believe that just because sunscreens are labeled “sweat proof” or “waterproof” that they are? Currently, the FDA is banning the word “waterproof.” Now the term, “water/sweat/perspiration resistant” is accurate, however; this only means the sunscreen offers SPF protection after 40 minutes of water exposure. The term, “very water resistant” gives 80 minutes of protection. So to be safe, use this basic rule of thumb: re-apply, re-apply, and re-apply!For people who don’t have a lot of time, especially parents, a trend today has been to use aerosol sunscreens because they find them easier to apply. However, people may not be effectively protecting their skin! While being applied, aerosol sunscreens can lose much of their protection during the transfer from the bottle onto the skin. This is because not all of the molecules land on your body.

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