Taming Those Locks

Posted on: 26 January 2018

Sunscreen is a vital part of any skin care regimen, especially in the summer when the sun is high and UV rays seem particularly out to get you. But you don't need to go white-nosed and barefaced the whole summer in order to protect yourself from skin cancer; here are three ways to hide sunscreen in your beauty routine to keep you looking your best while fighting UV rays.

In Your Foundation

One of the many benefits of foundation (besides the smooth, even coverage and, in the case of liquid foundation, the ability to hydrate your skin) is the fact that it can be blended with SPF to give you a beautifully even skin tone while protecting you from UV radiation when the sun is at its highest.

Tons of brands at every price point offer foundation in both powder and liquid mixed with sun protection to ensure that you're protected while still looking your absolute best. Remember, choose an SPF 15 or above, and ensure you build your foundation up to full coverage to ensure that you're getting the protection that you need.

In Your Moisturizer

Your skin is only as good as your moisturizer, and since the summer sun can be incredibly drying, it's a good idea to stock up on summer face lotion — just be sure that, when you do, you choose something with a bit of sun protection in it. Not only will this protect your skin at its base level before any foundation or setting spray, but it will also help your skin stay supple and young all summer long.

Look for SPF concentrations of 15 to 30 in your moisturizer, especially if you're planning on spending a lot of time outdoors from 10am-4pm, which are the hours when the UV rays are at their peak. Reapply every few hours as needed — after all, you can never have skin that's too moisturized.

In Your Lip Balm

Did you know that your lips can actually get damaged from the sun? It's true; not only can they get rough and chapped due to the thinness of the skin on them, but they're actually prime real estate for skin cancer — including two of the most common types, basal and squamous cell carcinomas. 

Since some lip glosses can actually, by virtue of their shine, attract UV rays to your lips, it's best to defend them with lip balm of SPF 15 or higher. Still want to wear your favorite shades? You're in luck; just layer the balm underneath, then apply your favorite lipstick — just maybe stick to matte colors when the sun is at its highest. For more information about adding sunscreen in a way that still protects your skin, contact Black Girl Sunscreen LLC.