Sunscreen 101

Living in California and now Florida, we are used to a lot of sun year round! Sunscreen has always been super important for me and the 4 kids to be able to enjoy the sun but also stay safe. And not all sunscreens are created equal. There are many that have chemicals that go directly into our bloodstream that can cause damage.

I’m carrying sunscreen in my purse and in the car year round! But I know it’s hard to find a good sunscreen that works, that is safe for kids and you can use on them before they run away from you. Today, I’m sharing 5 sunscreen hacks to make application and sun protection easier!

1. Use a makeup blender ball to apply – This may seem obvious to some (not to me!) but by using a blender ball to apply to your kids and your face, you get better application and your hands won’t be greasy or stink! 

2. Use a facial stick – This one is perfect for the gym bag, on the run or in your kids’ school bags. It goes on clear and isn’t sticky.

3. Choose a daily moisturizer with SPF – Want daily protection without an added layer of thick sunscreen, get a tinted moisturizer with an SPF. This one is my go-to for the summer and everyday look. It’s not greasy, gives me a hint of color, and evens out skin tones. Plus, in Florida in July you do not want a thick foundation. It’s just not fun!

4. Reapply – Even the best of the best of sunscreens needs reapplication. A good rule of thumb is every 2 hours, especially if you’re swimming and sweating. I tend to reapply every 40 minutes when we’re at the beach all day.

5. Go for Mineral – Chemical sunscreens act almost like a sponge, absorbing UV light, while physical sunscreens act more like a shield, deflecting the sun’s rays. Physical sunscreens (also called mineral) sunscreens contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide which are safer than chemical sunscreens.

My general rule is to choose safer products for myself and my kids when those products will be absorbed into my skin. Sunscreen is a big one that I always choose mineral. There are many options at your local drugstore or Target for mineral sunscreens. Check out the EWG for their list of safest sunscreens.

My favorite is obviously Beautycounter. As a consultant, we get them at 25% off and I love Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Mist and the Countersun Daily Sheer Defense for my face.

If you’d like to try our sunscreen, and have not purchased Beautycounter before, use the code CLEANBEAUTYFORALL20 and get 20% off your first order! Shop here!

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Rebekah Walton