UV radiation is part of the electromagnetic (light) spectrum that reaches the earth from the sun. It has wavelengths shorter than visible light, making it invisible to the naked eye. These wavelengths are classified as UVA, UVB, or UVC, with UVA the longest of the three at 320-400 nanometers. UVB ranges from 290 to 320 nanometers. With even shorter rays, most UVC is absorbed by the ozone layer and does not reach the earth. Both UVA and UVB, however, penetrate the atmosphere and play an important role in conditions such as premature skin aging and skin cancers.
Natural sunscreens
Use active mineral ingredients, such as Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. They reflect the sun’s rays like a mirror to protect exposed skin. Mineral active ingredients do not break down as readily in the sun as chemical ingredients.
Chemical sunscreens
Use a combination of two to six of these active ingredients: oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate. They absorb rays in a chemical reaction that dissipates the heat back off the skin.
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and refers to the theoretical amount of time you can stay in the sun without getting sunburned. For example, an SPF 15 would allow you to stay in the sun 15 times longer than you could without protection.
This depends on your body size and the exposed area of your body but approximately 1 ounce (enough to fill a shot glass) is recommended.
Reapply your Natural Tone Organic Sunscreens at least every 30 to 45 minutes. Take frequent breaks from the sun. Try and avoid the hours between 1pm and 3pm as this will be the most intense part of the day for UVA and UVB light.
-Ensure your skin is clean and dry.
-Ideally apply 15 minutes before you go into the sun.
-Dab and lay a small amount of lotion, enough to lightly cover the area.
-Wait 30-40 seconds for the cream to absorb into the skin.
-Spread the suncream in the direction that the hair lies, this will eventually distribute the lotion as the cream is absorbed.
-Application is key, as mineral sun creams can leave a white appearance if not applied properly.
-Always reapply the lotion every 30 to 40 minutes.
If your skin overheats, it frequently reacts with a classic heat rash or otherwise known as prickly heat (red bumps & blotches — itchy too). This can quickly lead to easy burning, and it can spoil whatever great tan you may already have. Take those occasional shade breaks! Cool off in the water frequently, and REAPPLY your sunscreen! Avoid waterproof, sport block, sweat proof and baby block type sunscreens if spending extended periods in the sun. The petroleum bases in these products can contribute to skin overheating quickly! Use wax less products such as Natural Tone Organic Skincare’s natural sunscreens to allow your skin to function properly, and to help keep skin below that critical damaging temperature. Also avoid thick, heavy oils (like mineral oil), which can clog the pores & cause the same overheating problem as those waxy sunscreens.
