By Niki Whiting for Radiance Herbs and Massage
Summer is creeping up on us fast — and spring feels quite a bit like summer these days. That means it’s time to stock up on sunscreens. Radiance Herbs and Massage offers many choices for you and your family. But what do you need to know when making a selection?
1. Use Broad Spectrum Sunscreens – Look for sunscreens that are labeled as broad spectrum. These mean that they block both UVA and UVB rays, aspects of the ultraviolet light spectrum. The SPF rating on the bottle only refers to the factor of UVB rays blocked by the product. For example, SPF 15 blocks approximately 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks about 97%. If you apply enough sunscreen, both in quantity and re-apply as necessary, you don’t have to pay more for higher SPF ratings. And, if you plan on being in the water, make sure you choose a water-resistant sunscreens. Radiance has several specifically for kids.
2. Know the difference between UVA and UVB – What is the difference between UVA and UVB rays? UVB rays are the ones that cause sunburn and short-term effects. UVA rays are the ones that cause longer-term damage, promoting the classic signs of aging. UVA rays account for the vast majority of UV (ultraviolet) radiation and these rays can pass through glass and clouds, unlike UVB rays, which cannot.
3. Look for Natural Products – Radiance has done the research and carries at least six different brands of high-quality sunscreen. None of these products contain synthetic ingredients; they use only titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, sun-blocking mineral compounds, as the active ingredients. Both of these ingredients block both UVA and UVB rays. If the slight whitening effect of these ingredients bothers you, Badger brand has a tinted formula and MyChelle uses a zinc formulation that won’t turn you white.
Why should you purchase an all-natural sunscreen? Besides being healthier for your skin and body overall, many of these sunscreens are biodegradable, which is important for the ecology of the waterways if you are swimming in lakes, streams, or the ocean.
4. Choose Non-nano Sunscreens – Another hot topic in sunscreens right now is the question of particle size and the preference for “non-nano” ingredients in natural health circles. Nano-particles are so small that they can be absorbed by the skin into the bloodstream, whereas non-nano particles are larger and sit on top of the skin. Radiance carries only non-nano sunscreens.
5. Don’t Overlook Other Sun Protection Products – Other sunscreen products you
might want to check out are lip balms that include sun protection and Badger’s 2-in-1 sunscreen and bug repellent.
The staff at Radiance Herbs and Massage will be happy to help you find a sunscreen that fits your needs. Come by the shop at 113 5th Avenue SE in Olympia and we can help you find the right one for you.
Monday – Friday 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
