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March 30, 2012
Safest Summer Sun Protection
Jolene Hart, Beauty Editor
 Sunscreen may be the single most perplexing personal care product on the market. Do you know if your favorite formula is broad spectrum?
Does it contain nanoparticles? How about oxybenzone, avobenzone or mexoryl? How much do you need to apply- and how often?
With the FDA’s new sunscreen regulations taking effect in mid June, there is hope that sunscreen labeling will get a lot clearer and that misleading product claims will go the way of the dinosaur in the months ahead.
Here’s an overview of the changes you can expect to see on your sunscreen this year:
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UVA protection will finally be measured. In the past, SPF indicated UVB protection only. From now on, the amount of ‘broad spectrum SPF’ that your sunscreen claims will refer to both the amount of UVA and UVB protection you’re getting. Look for a formula that specifically says ‘broad spectrum’ to get this essential protection. Without the words ‘broad spectrum,’ you’re still only guarded against UVB rays.
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Words like ‘waterproof,’ ‘sweatproof’ and ‘sunblock’ will be barred from packages, to prevent a false sense of security. Instead, your sunscreen’s package should specifically indicate whether it is ‘water-resistant’ for 40 or 80 minutes.
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Sunscreen packaging will be required to provide directions about how often the need to be reapplied to remain effective- so be sure to check each formula you use.
Of course, there is more to know if you want your sunscreen to be as natural as possible. Follow these tips from the Environmental Working Group to choose your safest summer sun protection ever…
It's Friday, you have guests coming over for dinner and maybe feel a little stumped on what to dish up? Have we got a recipe for you! See below...
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