Summer is peaking on Long Island and everyone is enjoying the bounty of outdoor activities this region offers. But before you head to the beach or out for a round of golf, remember to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun. A few new options join an old favorite, all of which provide UVA/UVB protection.
Kristen Peterson, a local mom who wanted the best for her two children, developed Babyhampton. It may be for kids, but it’s a great choice for adults too. Benefits include 75 percent certified organic ingredients. Social benefits include 100 percent GMO free, hypoallergenic, gluten-free, vegan, PABA-free, no animal testing, non-nano and paraben-free. The protection comes from zinc oxide (it’s been safely used for decades to treat diaper rash). It’s packed with moisturizing organics and it’s gentle for sensitive skin. 3oz tube: $20; .6oz stick; $15.
Another good sunscreen with zinc oxide is Epicuren Discovery SPF 20. This unscented lotion also comes in x-Treme Cream SPF 45 and includes proprietary metadermabolic enzyme protein complexes that enrich cell metabolism, oxygenation and nutrition. It revitalizes skin as it protects. These are only sold through approved retailers, which you can find at epicuren.com. 2.5oz for $34.
Badger Broad Spectrum SPF 30 provides the protection of zinc oxide in a soothing aloe vera-lotion base. It is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, 100 percent certified natural, 87 percent certified organic, non-nano, and absorbs nicely into the skin. It also comes in a kids’ version with a tangerine and vanilla scent and a baby sunscreen with chamomile and calendula. 4oz for $18.
A seasonal favorite is Hampton Sun Continuous Mist Sunscreen, another local business. It comes in SPF 15, 35 and 55, sprays on smoothly, has a fresh light scent and doesn’t leave your skin tacky or oily. It’s packed with all kinds of skin rejuvenating natural and organic ingredients, including ginger, aloe, almond oil, grape seed and an abundance of vitamins. The UVA/UVB broad spectrum protection comes from avobenzone and oxybenzone and it is water-resistant and oil and aerosol-free. The continuous mist makes it super easy to apply yourself, hitting all those difficult to reach spots. 5oz for $32.
REMINDER:
Sunscreen should be on your mind long after summer. Use sunscreen every day, not just at the beach. Also, keep in mind you are not protected from the sun’s rays by your windshield. No matter what SPF you choose, reapply sunscreen every couple of hours, even more often if you are active or swimming.