Why Is Sunscreen So Important? A review of SPF products

Why Is Sunscreen So Important? A review of SPF products

From Alternatives Skincare Newsletter Summer 2009 Welcome to our summer issue of Alternatives Aesthetics newsletter.  This summer it is time to focus on protection from and repair of sun damage.  We have the newest, highest quality skincare products to ensure a safe season for your skin. So what does the "Sun Protection Factor", or "SPF", in sunblock mean?  The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) was developed to describe the amount of protection that a sun protector provides.  SPF numbers tell a person how much longer he/she can stay in the sun without burning while wearing sunscreen/block as opposed to not wearing any sun protection.  For example, someone who would burn after 10 minutes in the sun would expect to burn after 320 minutes if protected by SPF 32. Make sure to use products with a SPF of 15 or more, if you are active during the day, try to reapply every 2 hours. Look for products that are water resistant and "broad spectrum" for the best protection, also organic products will of course be healthier for your skin. Why is Sunscreen So Important? Why you need our newest SPF powders, lotions, and moisturizers to provide protection from the sun while repairing damaged skin Repeated sun exposure accelerates the skin aging process and increases the risk of developing skin cancer, which affects over a million people in the United States every year.  Approximately 80% of skin aging is extrinsic, meaning that it is caused by external, environmental factors.  Of that 80%, 80%-90% is from unprotected sun exposure alone.  Clinical studies have documented SPF 29 or greater significantly reduces the development of premalignant keratoses, incidence of skin cancers and other photosensitive conditions.  Our strongest lotion available is Ultra Shield Lotion by Epionce.  This SPF 50 lotion is considered waterproof for up to 8 hours, is suitable for all skin types, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and has anti-inflammatory properties to heal damaged skin and signs of aging.  Despite it's high SPF, Ultra Shield is light and sheer, absorbs quickly, and does not leave a residue.  For a complete summer regimen the Epionce Summer Sun Kit optimizes the health of your skin while protecting it from the damaging effects of sun exposure.  Re-Balancing Clarifier helps soothe and hydrate the skin; Extreme Barrier Cream repairs the skin barrier; Ultra Shield Lotion SPF 50 helps block damaging UVA/UVB rays from the sun. Revision Skincare's Intellishade SPF 45 Tinted Moisturizer is formulated with a unique blend of antioxidants for added sun protection.  It has both UVA and UVB broad spectrum coverage is combined with an IPF (immune protection factor) for complete sun defense.  As an added bonus the mineral tint gives skin a touch of pure, healthy color and helps to even out skin tone after receiving skin treatments. From Eminence Organics we have both a sunblock body lotion and a powder.  The Tropical Vanilla Body sunblock has natural SPF 32 protection for all skins with broad spectrum UVA/UVB/UVC protection. Protect your skin with the natural defenses of zinc in this organic sunscreen that blocks harmful UVA, UVB and UVC rays. The revitalizing and hydrating shea butter combines with the calming aromas of vanilla to indulge your senses with a tropical treat with each application. Safe enough for the whole family to use.  The Sun Defense Minerals SPF 30 provide a quick and convenient option for men, women and children (over the age of one year) offering effective SPF coverage that is water-resistant, and easy to use and carry anywhere-perfect for those who exercise and do sports. Loaded with bioflavonoids, zinc oxide and vitamins A, C & E. With six shades to choose from, there is a match for all skin types. New from Jane Iredale is Dream Tint, the Ultimate Tinted Moisturizer.  This super-absorbent product not only hydrates, but prevents water loss, calms inflammation and improves the skin's elasticity. Plus, it creates a soft-focus effect that minimizes the look of large pores and fine lines. Unique algae extracts moisturize and soothe.  Titanium dioxide provides SPF 15 with UVA protection. Use alone as a tinted moisturizer and sunscreen; or as the perfect primer for our mineral bases.