Natural Facial Skin Protection from the Sun

Zinc Sun Care and Summer Skin

Sun Protection

Summer is rapidly approaching and it is time to once again stock up on sunscreens and hats. Sunrays can have a detrimental effect on the skin, so it is very important to protect the skin from too much sun exposure. Sun damage to the skin can show up almost immediately and will also appear over time. Different sunrays have different effects on the skin. A great way to remember the difference is by the letter A or B. UVA rays or ‘aging rays’ cause wrinkles, pigmentation and cancer. UVB rays or ‘burning rays’ are the rays that cause a tan and sunburn. These rays also age the skin but do not penetrate as deep as UVA rays.

To protect the skin from harmful sun exposure it is important to use a sunscreen that has both UVA and UVB protection. These sunscreens are commonly known as dual spectrum sunscreens. It is also important to check for ingredients that absorb and block sunrays. Ingredients such as oxybenzo absorb sunrays while zinc oxide actually blocks the rays. It is also important to look for sunscreens that are non comedogenic and non acnegenic which means that the sunscreen will not clog pores or promote acne. A SPF or sun protection factor of 15 or higher is recommended. A generous application is needed in order to attain protection; most people do not apply sunscreen liberally enough.

The SPF indicates how long you can be exposed to the sun before burning. For example, if your skin will burn within 10 minutes of sun exposure with no sun protection you can be exposed to the sun for 150 minutes with a sun protection factor of 15 before burning.

To estimate how long you can be exposed to the sun before burning, multiply the probable time you can be exposed to the sun with no sun protection before burning and multiply it by the SPF on the label of the sunscreen. Multiple applications throughout the day are necessary in order to be protected, and it is recommended to reapply every two hours, as sweating and water activities may rub off the sun screen. Sunscreens do more than just protect skin from burning, so reapplication is necessary to shield the skin from other harmful damage like premature age spots, wrinkles and fine lines.

Sunscreen Application

Regular sunscreen use will protect the skin from burning, premature aging and possible skin cancer. It is important to make sunscreen use as much a part of your daily routine as brushing your teeth. As summer is approaching it is even more important to wear sunscreen as the sunrays are stronger and more harmful during this time of year.

Summer Acne Solved with Zinc

Summer brings fun outside activities, under the hot summer sun. Heat and environmental exposure however can lead to acne break outs and clogged pores, especially for those that have oily or acne skin types. The hot summer sun causes us to sweat more creating more surface oil and a perfect breading ground for dirt and bacteria to clog pores and create acne. There are simple steps to take to keep your skin break out free during the summer.

1. Proper hygiene

Cleansing the skin more often is essential to eliminating dirt and bacteria that can cause clogged pores and acne breakouts. It is important to properly cleanse not only the face but the entire body, as acne is common on other skin surfaces such as the back, and chest as well as the face. Body and face washes that contain salicylic acid or benzyol peroxide are good options as these ingredients fight acne causing bacteria. It is also important to exfoliate regularly over the summer to shed the skin of dead skin that can clog pores. A mild exfoliate for the face and body is recommended, harsh exfoliation treatments are not recommended as this can sensitize the skin. Common areas that become clogged with dead skin cells is the t-zone of the face and the back of arms and legs. If body acne is your concern over summer wear clothing that is loose fitting, this will allow room for the skin to breath making it harder for bacteria to spread and cause break outs.

2. Oil Control

The rising temperature and humidity over summer can cause oil gland to produce more oil. More surface oil combined with bacteria, dirt and dead skin can lead to break outs. Controlling surface oil by cleansing with a foaming cleanser at least twice a day will eliminate potential break outs. Using a rice paper oil blotter or oil control lotion will help oil stay controlled during the day, proper cleansing should be practiced to control oil all summer. If your skin becomes over sensitive to cleansing or is excessively oily a mask that controls oils and replenishes nutrients to the skin can be applied once or twice a week. Try a mask that contains sulfur or clay to control oil, these ingredients treat break outs and add nutrients to the skin.

3. Moisturize

Moisturizing your skin during the summer months is necessary to protect the moisture barrier of the skin, and protect from environmental damaging. During the cooler months skin may be dryer and a heavier more emmolitant moisturizer is necessary, during the summer a light moisturizer is best. Choose a light weigh moisturizer that is non comedogenic and oil free meaning it will not clog pores. There are also formulas that have acne fighting ingredients such as salicylic acid to fight break outs while moisturizing.

4. Wear Sunscreen

Wearing a daily sunscreen is important year round for all skin types. Acne fighting protects make the skin more sensitive a daily sunscreen will protect the skin from sun damage and scarring. Choose a sunscreen safe for face and body that is oil free and non comedogenic and is labeled SPF 15 or higher. Zinc and Zinc Oxide are the best natural sun blocks you can buy without resorting to harsh chemical constituents that clog pores and cause potential allergic reactions. Zinc blocks the sun with it’s micro-crystal effects, while regular sunscreens only ABSORB harmful UV rays. Zinc also is anti-microbial, which will significantly to help reduce acne breakouts.

Follow these simple all summer to ensure great glowing skin with out break outs.