Along with using the right well-formulated sunscreens, you can give your skin the tools it needs for a more positive relationship with the sun. Tea extracts, strawberry extract, alpha lipoic acid, and bilberry extract have all shown an ability to support the skin’s natural protective mechanisms, internally and topically.
Scientists have been able to show tissue exposed to ultraviolet radiation while covered in certain antioxidants has a lower negative response than uncovered tissue. Another exciting finding: Certain ingredients may increase our natural resistance to skin cancer and skin damage through internal supplementation! An example is astaxanthin, produced by microalgae, to protect itself from ultraviolet radiation. Carotenoids, which give fruits and vegetables their bright orange or red colors, are also known to help protect the skin from sun damage.
Dr. Wilhelm Stahl, Ph.D., an author of a study published in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, showed that after 12 weeks of supplementation with beta-carotene and vitamin E, sunburn was statistically reduced, and the skin created its own SPF of about two to three. Two to three, for most of us, means a little bit of safe, delicious time in the sun. Other studies have shown that regular exposure to sun versus intermittent exposure leads skin to build a defense mechanism. In tropical locations, one of the long-standing, old wives tale is that eating adequate avocados and coconuts helps protect the skin.
As skin care professionals, we innately understand that if the skin has adequate internal healthy fats, it is more resilient to damage. There is plenty of information proving that good health and beauty habits holds true for sun protection as well: eat fruits and vegetables, drink tea, eat good fats, and use good, quality products.
Our recommendations:
- Use a powerful antioxidant underneath your sunscreen, such as stable vitamin C or tea extracts.
- Maintain a healthy diet, including consuming loose-leaf tea.
- Use topical Zinc Oxide based products for the face.
Alima Pure makes a gorgeous Satin Matte Foundation containing zinc oxide. It's a great product - minimal ingredients, never tested on animals. Also an amazing brand to support - they are 100% carbon neutral, donate to grassroots environmental organizations and also have a refill systems for used pans.
Skinceuticals sells a matte UV protection sunscreen that is great for people with oily skin. It's a weightless mousse that dries to a powder finish, great for use with makeup.
Rogue Witch Apothercary on Etsy sells a Sun Goddess Sunscreen with organic ingredients, and a zinc oxide base.
And of course, using our Brilliant Body Serum throughout the day will help to protect your skin from sun damage. It is actually equivalent to a SPF 15! Although prevention is easier than reversal, if you have sun spots, the Cellular Luminosity Creme will work to brighten and regenerate your skin.
Now you have the knowledge you need to be sun smart this summer.