Naturally Beautiful Skin, Part 4: Summer Skin

What I love most about my job is educating and empowering my customers. There are just a few extra questions I’d like to answer for you.

Seriously. Just apply it.

Can I use a sunscreen and bug repellent in one? Sure, if space is an issue–but it’s not ideal. You may not get enough sunscreen or repellent when combined. In addition, sunscreen manufacturers recommend applying 30 minutes before exposure or applying other products, for best protection.

What is the safest way to tan? According to the American Academy of Dermatologists, there isn’t one. UV rays, whether from sunlight or tanning beds, increase risk of skin cancer. If you’re determined, they recommend using a self-tanning product, and to continue using a broad-spectrum, high SPF sunscreen as well.

Can I use sunscreen I bought last summer? Check the expiration date, which is printed on the bottle or pressed into the end of the tube. Many manufacturers suggest a product life of 1-1.5 years. The sun protection probably lasts beyond that, but other ingredients don’t age as well, especially oils. If it’s lasted that long you’re probably not using enough, however. Manufacturers rate their SPF coverage based on an average-sized man applying an ounce to his entire body. Naturally, a thinner coat will provide less protection, and you can prolong the life of that bottle by applying liberally only to exposed areas.

My facial moisturizer is breaking my skin out. Why isn’t it working like it did in the winter? Where we needed to retain fat in winter to keep us warm, we shed it in the summer. Facial skin is more moist and often oily in the summer, and excess oil can result in blemishes. Though your cleanser is probably fine, you’ll need to use a thinner, lighter moisturizer in the summer. The same goes for body lotions.

Is it safe to use a sunscreen with chemical ingredients in it? Given that UVA and UVB rays are known carcinogens, any effective, full-spectrum sunscreen is better than no protection. That said, my preference is with natural bases and zinc oxide.

What sunscreen should I use on my child? You can use the same that you use for yourself, as long as it’s full-spectrum and high SPF. Be diligent about applying it. Children have very thin skin and are more prone to burns. Treat your child’s sunscreen like any medicine and keep it out of reach when not in use. Even the safest sunscreen is potentially dangerous when ingested.

I find summer skin more prone to hot irritations, like athlete’s foot, heat rash and sunburn. Aloe vera is a great summer companion. It’s cooling, soothing and mildly anti-fungal, and can be used internally and topically. I like to drink 1-2 ounces of Aloe juice in a big glass of water to cut the summer heat, and I use it liberally on my skin after sun exposure or when it’s irritated. The Co-op stocks a good base of natural sunscreens, and a variety of aloe products. Come visit any time for deeper explanations and demos of some of my favorites!

Got more questions? The rest of Val’s series on skincare is here, here, and here, in that order.