Skin Care in the Sunshine

Whether you’re planning a day at the beach, working in the garden, or simply enjoying a picnic in the park, protecting your skin from harmful UV rays becomes essential for our health and wellbeing. Sunscreen provides crucial protection against both UVA and UVB rays that can cause immediate skin damage like sunburn.

The key to effective sun protection is choosing the right product and applying it correctly and consistently. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin 15 to 30 minutes before heading outdoors, using about one to two ounces for your entire body. (If you’re using a spray, apply until an even sheen appears on the skin.) Don’t forget those often-missed spots like your ears, feet, the back of your neck, and the tops of your hands. Most importantly, remember to reapply every two hours!

When choosing a sunscreen, you will discover two primary types: mineral and chemical. Mineral sunscreens use active ingredients like zinc oxide to create a physical barrier that sits on top of your skin and reflects UV rays away from your body. Some people find mineral sunscreens to be more gentle on sensitive skin, making them an excellent choice for families with children or anyone prone to skin irritation. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, work by absorbing UV rays and converting them to heat that is released by the body. While effective, they may contain ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin.

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures a product’s ability to protect against UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn. SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. For daily use and moderate sun exposure, SPF 30 provides excellent protection. SPF 50 offers slightly higher protection and is ideal for extended outdoor activities and intense sun exposure. Keep in mind that no sunscreen blocks 100% of UV rays, so seek shade and wear protective clothing in addition to wearing sunscreen.

The kind of sunscreen you choose can make a significant difference in how consistently you and your family use it. With sunscreen lotions, you can see exactly where you’ve applied the product and ensure you don’t miss any spots, making them ideal for full-body applications.

Sunscreen sticks are incredibly convenient when applying to faces, noses, ears, and other small areas. They’re mess-free, travel-friendly, and perfect for active families on the go. We love the Thinkbaby sunscreen stick for this reason! It is ideal for quick, reliable protection.

Sunscreen sprays are great for quick and easy application for large areas of the body and help reach hard-to-access spots like your back, or for applying sunscreen to energetic children who don’t want to stand still. We recommend the Thinksport sunscreen spray because it uses an air-powered, non-aerosol formula that provides excellent coverage without harmful propellants.

When it comes to protecting babies and young children, choose mineral-based formulas that are specifically designed for delicate skin, and look for products that are pediatrician- and dermatologist-tested. Thinksun offers excellent options with their SPF 30 stick and SPF 50 lotion, both formulated to be gentle on sensitive skin while providing broad-spectrum protection.

A quick note: sunscreen should only be used on babies over six months old. For younger infants, protection should come from shade, protective clothing, and avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours. Please consult your child’s physician for any additional questions.

After a day in the sun, your skin needs special attention to recover and stay healthy. Post-sun care products, like MacKenzie’s Fisherman After Sun Cooling Lotion, include cooling ingredients like peppermint and menthol to provide immediate relief and comfort to sun-exposed skin. These formulations help soothe any irritation while providing essential moisture, and they are made with 100% biodegradable ingredients to protect our waterways.

Taking care of your skin in the sun does not have to be complicated or overwhelming. With the right products, proper application techniques, and consistent habits, your family can enjoy all your favorite outdoor activities while staying protected throughout the season. Remember, sun protection is a year-round commitment, not just a summer concern. UV rays can be strong even on cloudy days and during cooler months.

How To Add Farm Stand Products to Your Delivery:
Full Circle members – head on over to our online Farm Stand Market to customize your upcoming delivery. Market is open from noon on Thursday until 6pm on your cutoff date. After you confirm your produce items, click the orange button “Confirm and Continue To Other Farm Products” to add farm products to your delivery.

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