Lulus.com Fashion Blog

Protect That Beautiful Skin: How to Choose Your SPF

May
4
2011

Excuse me for a moment while I stand on my soap box, but this is something that I feel strongly about because it is something that is completely under your control! That is, protecting you skin from the sun!

A sun "tan" is by definition DAMAGE to your skin! I know, I know what you're thinking: "But I look healthier, skinnier, prettier, etc., with a tan!" Trust me ladies, as someone who has customized skin care for women, in twenty years you will wish you didn't spend so much time soaking up those rays! Instead, be proactive and protect that beautiful complexion NOW to prevent wrinkles, sagging, and loss of elasticity LATER in life!

Now, don't get me wrong; I'm not suggesting that you lock yourselves indoors all summer long. I'm just suggesting you lather on the sunscreen, not the tanning oil!

Did you know that there are two different kinds of sunscreens that protect you in different ways? Let me break it down for you...

Chemical Sunscreen:

Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing the sun's rays. In general, chemical sunscreens offer more protection from UVA and UVB rays, but may be more irritating for some people's skin. Chemical sunscreens have ingredients such as Avobenzone and Octinoxate, among other things.

Physical Sunscreen:

Physical sunscreens work by deflecting the sun's rays. The active ingredients in physical sunscreens protect against UVA and UVB rays as well, but they may not protect you from the full spectrum of UVA rays. Physical sunscreens contain ingredients such as Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide.

So, what does all of this mean?

Basically, both work to protect you from the sun's damaging rays; you just need to find the one that works best for your skin type! If you break out from using a chemical sunscreen, you're probably allergic, which is not uncommon! How do I know? Trial and error combined with some research! For the longest time I could not figure out why my skin was breaking out. Then, I realized that the makeup I was using contained a chemical sunscreen, and I found out it is not uncommon to be allergic to chemical sunscreens! I have since switched to a physical sunscreen and my skin couldn't be happier!

I can not tell you enough about how important it is to protect your skin DAILY! Not just when you know you'll be outside for extended periods of time! The sun's rays are tricky and can permeate through your car or office window and those cute oversized sunglasses!

Here are some suggestions for you to try:

This is Clinique's City Block Sheer! The great thing about this physical sunscreen is it has the daily minimum SPF requirement which is 25, and it acts as a makeup primer! So not only will it protect your delicate skin, but it makes your makeup go on smoother and stay on longer! A double whammy!

This is Neutrogena's Ultra-Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 30. This chemical sunscreen has gotten rave reviews for its lightweight feel and matte finish!

Still think you can't live without that glowing tan? Fake it, with a sunless tanner! My favorite are the gradual tanners that you can apply everyday to build just the right amount of color without looking streaky or orange!

So go ahead, have some fun in the sun, just protect yourself!

Will you be protecting your skin this summer? If so, what is your favorite sunscreen?

A Few of My Favorite Things...

May
7
2010

I thought I would share with you guys my favorite new buys for each week. Most of them are beauty products and face washes (since that's what I'm addicted to), but anything that strikes my fancy is up for game. I'll let you know why I love each item and have added it to my routine. (P.S. I bought all these items with my own money and was not paid for my opinion)

First up - Purity Made Simple, One-Step Facial Cleanser.

There's nothing worse than finding leftover foundation hanging out on your freshly washed face. This cleanser takes care of that, leaving you with pure, supple skin. My skin is very dry, and this does leave a slight "tightness," but as long as you follow up with moisturizer it shouldn't be a problem.

Number 2 - Luna & Larry's Coconut Bliss Non-Dairy Dessert

My sweet tooth seems to go crazy when the weather warms up, and Coconut Bliss really hits the spot. I love that they use Agave sweetener which is gentler on your system. Plus, the coconut milk adds an unbelievable richness.

Number 3 - Maybelline Great Lash, Clear Lash and Brow Gel,

I can't believe how long I've gone without this product in life! Keeping unruly brows in place is no longer an issue. I also love using this gel after regular mascara. It helps separate the lashes and add a little gloss.

Number 4 - DERMAdoctor KP Duty Body Scrub

I bought this scrub last summer and am getting it again! For those annoying dry skin bumps of the winter, this scrub kicks major butt. This is also great for creating a smooth canvas the day before a self tan.

Share with me one of your favorite things!!