Not all SPF is Created Equal

Summer is around the corner and spring is here! It's never to early or late to start carrying around your SPF. I've been a licensed Esthetician for 13 years and educating my clients on the the differences of SPF has always been my focus.

Sunblock, sunscreen, SPF 15, SPF 50, physical block, chemical block so much information it becomes overwhelming. Sun protection should be a part of your daily routine regardless of your skin tone. Lighter tones obviously need to be more concerned with sun protection but darker pigments need sun protection as well.

First I would like to begin with UVA vs UVB rays. UVA sometime referred to as the "aging rays" is the same strength all year long and penetrate through glass and clothes. UVB also known as the "burning rays" is stronger during the summer months. UVB rays do not penetrate through glass and are the main cause of skin cancers. It is my personal opinion that tanning beds should be avoided. With the increase in skin cancer by 75% why would you even risk it? Check out "dear sixteen year old me" on YouTube for a powerful video about skin cancer.

Now that we have a better understanding of Ultra Violet Rays we can move forward in talking about "chemical blocks" vs "physical blocks".

Chemical Blocks work by absorbing the energy of UV radiation before it affects the skin. These are most often referred to as sunscreens and usually contain UVB absorbing ingredients such as Avobenzone and Oxybenzone.

Physical Blocks reflect UV radiation before it reaches your skin. These are most often referred to as sunblocks and provide a broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide ingredients are most commonly used.

Ok so now let's talk SPF "sun protection factor"
SPF 50 is not stronger then SPF 15 but an SPF 50 does however last longer then the 15. Sun protection should be applied 20 minutes prior to exposure and reapplied throughout the day. Since 99% of us never use the correct amount of sun protection during application here is my general rule. If you apply an SPF of 50 on then make sure you reapply every hour if you plan on being outside exposed to the sun. If your using an SPF 15 then ever half hour is what I would recommend. Remember once your skin turns pink the damage is done. Sun damage isn't always visible. UV rays can alter your DNA, cause free radical damage and aging. A skin scanner can be used to see sun damage under the skin that hasn't surfaced yet. Sun damage causes hyper-pigmentation, you may seek out a Doctor or Esthetician for treatments and product to help with the damage.

I would recommend using mineral make-up since the main ingredients used are titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Usually this will have at least an SPF of 15 or more. If you are using a moisturizer with an SPF remember to check the ingredients to see what is used as the block. I prefer using separate sun protection outside of my moisturizer. Skin Ceuticals makes an SPF sheer 50 with zinc oxide that absorbs in the skin no matter your skin type. If your concerned about using natural products then Coola Suncare has a full line of products to try. Shopping at natural food markets like Whole Foods also carry organic products you could purchase.

Remember that being in the sun is a good thing but we need to take extra steps for sun protection. When applying sun protection don't forget the tops of your feet, back of hands and ears. Many people are finding out they are deficient in vitamin D and the best way for the body to get that is being in the sun. The skin is the largest organ of the body and sometimes we forget that. Talk with your doctor about prescribing a vitamin D supplement.

Now that I loaded your brain with lots of information I hope that I was able to at least simplify it.

Enjoy the Summer!

Fun Fast Yummy Snack

Easy fast healthy and oh so yummy.

What is Your Definition of Eating Healthy?

If someone were to ask you do you eat healthy most of us would say yes or could be better. I found that the definition of eating "healthy" changes with every person you ask. Some say that eating healthy is a well balanced diet with meat, fruits, veggies and grains. Others say low carb high protein. Maybe you have heard someone say they stay away from white flour and sugar. These are all ways of eating that may work for you but I believe the real meaning of eating healthy is to eat organic non-GMO foods. What's the point of eating "healthy" if your food quality is genetically modified, full of hormones and pesticides?

I find it interesting that most of Europe is in agreement that GMOs are a danger to human health. Here in the USA Monsanto seems to be winning the fight as we saw California Proposition 37 defeated. It's going to be a long fight but eventually Monsanto will be defeated as more and more people become aware of these dangers.

I am sure you have also noticed an increase in food allergies. This is another side affect of eating GMO foods. Genetically Modified Organisms are found in many ingredients such as alfalfa, canola, corn, cotton, and soy. Animal products like milk, meat, eggs and honey also contain GMOs because of the contamination in feed. If your feeling overwhelmed don't panic because many companies do label Non GMOs.

Who would have thought that we would need to do research on the foods we eat? I never did but don't take my word for it, do your own research. Here is a great place to get started. http://www.nongmoproject.org/

So the next time you are out and order a grilled chicken salad will you be thinking you made the "healthy choice"? If you asked me I would say sure! Is the chicken organic free from hormones, antibiotics, GMOs? Is the lettuce organic, free of 35+ pesticides? Like I said before don't panic or drive yourself crazy. Start out small by educating yourself and you choose what "healthy" eating is best for you. Most importantly share your knowledge with family and friends. Together we can make a change.

Photo credit: foodmatters.com