Green Options » SPF http://greenoptions.com/tag/spf Posts tagged 'SPF' Sun, 31 May 2009 15:02:00 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.5.1 en Sun Safety for Kids: Azur Pro-Cellular Natural Sunscreen http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/05/31/sun-safety-for-kids-azur-pro-cellular-natural-sunscreen/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/05/31/sun-safety-for-kids-azur-pro-cellular-natural-sunscreen/#comments Sun, 31 May 2009 15:02:00 +0000 Jennifer Lance http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/05/31/sun-safety-for-kids-azur-pro-cellular-natural-sunscreen/ Azur natural sunscreenWhen I was a child, sunburns were common.  We used suntan lotion to get tans not to protect us from the sun.  Fortunately for today’s children, we know better.  Sun damage in childhood can cause health problems as adults.  Although it is important to expose your children to natural sunlight for vitamin absorption, these periods should be limited and occur during off peak hours.

When it comes to sunscreen ingredients, I trust the Environmental Working Group (EWG) to tell me what is safe.  EWG recommends:

Which sunscreens are best for children?
Since kids are more vulnerable to damage caused by the sun and to harmful effects of chemical exposure, you want to make sure you choose a sunscreen that is rated highly in terms of both effectiveness (against both UVA and UVB radiation) and safety. Use EWG’s guide to help you find one. If your child is going to be swimming or playing in the water look for a sunscreen that says it is water resistant. Avoid sprays, powders and products with bug repellant. Make sure to apply sunscreen generously before going out and reapply often. (Don’t believe claims that a product will remain effective for a certain period of time, as these are not always reliable.) Infants under 6 months need special protection Ñ at this age, a fair-skinned baby does not have melanin proteins for sun protection and needs to be kept out of the sun. The AAP recommends that you avoid using sunscreen on children younger than 6 months unless protective shade and clothing are not available. In this case you can apply a minimal amount to exposed skin (AAP 2008). Remember that sunscreen is just one part of a sun-healthy lifestyle. Limiting sun exposure and wearing protective clothing are even more important than wearing sunscreen.

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]]> http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/05/31/sun-safety-for-kids-azur-pro-cellular-natural-sunscreen/feed/ Get out and YOLO - Paddle Boards Take to the Waves http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/08/25/get-out-and-yolo-paddle-boards-take-to-the-waves/ http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/08/25/get-out-and-yolo-paddle-boards-take-to-the-waves/#comments Tue, 26 Aug 2008 04:20:24 +0000 Courtney Carlisle http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/08/25/get-out-and-yolo-paddle-boards-take-to-the-waves/ Because “You Only Live Once,” which is the motto that YOLO founders, Jeff Archer and Tom Losee live by, get out and play on one of their paddle boards before summer is over. Paddle boards are re-emerging as one of the hottest sports and past times from Florida (where the duo is based) to the shores of California and beyond to Hawaii.

This stylish way to stay fit and explore your local eco system, the company offers  ‘Yolo Paddle Fit,’ a series of workouts to help you increase stamina and strength.

Just remember, look into Bethesda Skincare SPF or another chemical free sunscreen - 4-6,000 lbs of SPF a year gets dumped into the ocean, which is responsible for bleaching coral reefs.

Kiss My Face also has a paraben-free After-sun Aloe ($6) in case you are having too much fun to go in early.

]]> http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/08/25/get-out-and-yolo-paddle-boards-take-to-the-waves/feed/ Tip o’ the Day: Wear Sunscreen, Not Chemicals http://amystodghill.greenoptions.com/2007/05/31/tip-o-the-day-wear-sunscreen-not-chemicals/ http://amystodghill.greenoptions.com/2007/05/31/tip-o-the-day-wear-sunscreen-not-chemicals/#comments Thu, 31 May 2007 13:35:21 +0000 Amy Stodghill http://amystodghill.greenoptions.com/2007/05/31/tip-o-the-day-wear-sunscreen-not-chemicals/ Temperatures are on the rise (for those of us in the northern hemisphere) and the sun can really pack a punch especially during the heat of the day. Make sure your SPF is doing its job without those pesky chemicals.

Many brands of sunblock contain chemicals with estrogenic properties - meaning they can be endocrine disruptors, which confuse the body's natural hormonal balance. Look for sunscreens that use titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. These are inert compounds that will reflect the sun and keep you protected from both UVB (the rays that can cause sunburn) and UVA (the rays that can cause long-term skin damage).

Here's a few options for sunscreens with SPF 15 or higher:

Kiss My Face
Aubrey Organics
Alba
Kabana
California Baby
Lavera
Burts Bees

In addition to sunscreen other ways to avoid the sun's rays include:

  • Long sleeves/pants. Linen is a lightweight, breathable material that will cover you up and keep you cool.
  • Take a hat. Get a wide brimmed hat to shade your face.
  • Look for the shade. Choose to walk on the shady side of the street or pick a spot by the lake or pool that is shaded by trees.

Amy says: I've had my fair share of sunburns over the years and these days I'm one of those shade seekers. When I'm beach bound I'll take a big umbrella. This not only offers sun protection, but helps in finding my spot on the shore again after taking a dip in the water. (Make sure to use caution with umbrellas if the wind picks up.)

For more info on sunscreen safety:

Care2.org

Aubrey Organics

Skinbiology.com

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