Safe Sunscreens
Despite the natural SPF protection from your complexion and the barrier of your clothes, you still need sunscreen to protect against UVA rays. We recommend:
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A minimum of SPF 30
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SPF 50 if you're outside for more than an hour
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Reapply sunscreen every two hours — more frequently if you're sweating or swimming as it rinses off and loses effectiveness
Apply It
Though melanin provides extra protection from the sun's rays, people of all skin tones should apply suscreen.
There are many options, and it is important to test out different types to find out which works best for you.
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Chemical
Chemical sunscreen acts like a sponge, and absorbs most of the harmful rays, keeping it from damaging the skin.
These sunscreens contain ingredients like
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oxybenzone
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avobenzone
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octisalate
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homosalate
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octocrylene
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octinoxate
Though these leave less white residue, they linger in the body for longer, which some may want to avoid.
Though some UV rays still reach the skin, most rays are absorbed into the sunscreen.
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Physical
Physical sunscreen acts like a shield, causing harmful sun rays to bounce off of the skin.
These sunscreens contain minerals like
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titanium
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dioxide
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zinc oxide
Though these ingredients are considered safer, they may leave a white residue.
Though some UV rays still hit the skin, most rays are reflected by the sunscreen.
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Hear Dr. Chesahna Kindred of the Kindred Hair and Skin Center share more on what to look for in a sunscreen.
Care Instructions
Be Informed
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Potentially harmful ingredients are limited to chemical sunscreens
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Mineral sunscreens, containing zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide, are designated by the FDA as GRASE ("generally regarded as safe and effective").
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The reputable Consumers Reports suggest chemical sunscreens without oxybenzone to protect against UV radiation and sunburn.