Why The ☀️ IS Important + How to Enjoy it While Protecting Your Skin
I hope you are enjoying some sunshine today. ☀️
As you all know, Summer is right around the corner, okay you have some time actually before it is here, but the sun peaks out all year long.
Undoubtedly, we’ve all made plans at some point to ditch our cozy dwellings and soak in the sun—and rightfully so! Not only does our glowing celestial friend bring in the fun summer times, but it can aid in our achieving radiant health as well.
1. So, let's talk about the benefits of moderate sun exposure...
Moderate exposure to outdoor sunlight has been scientifically proven to release serotonin, the mood-boosting and positivity-enhancing hormone; aid in the body’s natural production of vitamin D3, the primary vitamin responsible for bone strength and health; and alleviate symptoms associated with certain skin disorders, such as acne, eczema, inflammatory diseases, etc. With all of these benefits in mind, who wouldn’t want to go outside and enjoy the summer sun?!
However!
before you head for the beach with a towel and your favorite book, I want to remind you of something you’ve probably heard your mother tell you at least one time in your life: “Even too much of a good thing can be a bad thing.” 🙊
2. Let's talk about the effects of sun overexposure...
That’s right, for all of the amazing benefits, overexposure to sunlight has been shown to be one of the LEADING CAUSES of premature aging of the skin. Sunlight consists of electromagnetic waves, called ultraviolet light (also known as “UV rays”), that, when in contact with the skin for a prolonged period of time, can result in short-term and long-term damage. The thermic energy from shorter-wavelength UVB rays can cause sunburn, blistering, and contribute to the development of malignant melanomas (skin cancer). Longer-wavelength UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin, and can contribute to skin cancer as well, but these also kickstart oxidative processes beneath the skin that in the long-term can result in premature aging of the skin, wrinkles, and certain forms of hyperpigmentation (think “sunspots” or “liver spots”).
So, if you want to enjoy the positive benefits of soaking in the sunshine while maintaining a bright, youthful appearance and healthy, happy skin, it is ESSENTIAL that you add some form of sun protection to your everyday skincare routine—yes, we’re talking about sunscreens here.
3. Sunscreen 101: Chemical vs Mineral
However, not all sunscreens are created equal. Some sunscreens, known as chemical sunscreens, are designed to absorb into the skin and, through the use of synthetic chemicals, block the reaction chain of UV rays affecting skin cells. These, however, contain multiple toxic nasties 😷 that can disrupt your body’s natural hormone balance and cause certain unfavorable skin reactions. Furthermore, some of the products used in chemical sunscreens, such as oxybenzone, have been known to damage coral reefs and other aquatic flora and fauna. 🐠🐬🐳☠️ Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, make use of minerals that do not absorb into the skin. You spread them onto the skin, and they effectively block and reflect the sun’s UV rays from off your skin. They are natural, effective, and safe --- and most can be applied onto infants too!
At Skin Balm Apothecary, we are pleased to announce that we carry the highest-quality, all-natural, mineral sunscreen, made with organic ingredients.
4. A mineral sunscreen that's healthy for your skin, body, & the environment... & that looks great on our darker-skinned SBA fam! <3
Our Daydream Mineral SPF is a facial sunscreen that can easily be incorporated into your skincare routine using other SBA products, and that can easily be applied for sun protection. This product contains natural oils with a low comedogenic factor, so it won’t clog pores or promote acne. It is also full of antioxidant-rich ingredients that combat oxidative damage produced by harmful UV rays. Our Daydream Moisturizer with SPF is your best friend for enjoying the sun while protecting the beautiful skin you’re in! Just remember to reapply it throughout the day, just like with any SPF, if you plan on being in the water, or in the sun for an extended period of time.
Click here for a full summer skincare routine suggestion for your skin type!
Warmly,
Chelsea Henderson
Co-CEO and Founder
Skin Balm Apothecary