Warm weather skin care
May 27, 2020
Summer Skin Care
Summer is almost here. With that means long days in the sun, pool-time and those pesky mosquitoes lurking. Many of us quickly reach for that sunscreen and chemical based insect repellent and lather them all over our body without even giving it a second thought of what we are putting on our skin. The skin is the largest organ and due to its porous nature absorbs all those chemicals, delivering them quickly to organs and our bloodstream. We have all heard of label reading for food and if you can't pronounce the ingredient that you probably should not be ingesting it. So, why don't you do that for your self-care items? When's the last time you read what's in your shampoo, laundry detergent or body-care items? Yet this is just as important.
So going back to those summer cookouts and pool time. Most sunscreens contain chemicals like sodium lauryl sulfate and petroleum-based ingredients (yikes...the last time I checked putting ingredients that can run a car is not something I want on my skin) which can cause toxicity in the organs. Phthalates, which is a plastic that holds the color and scent together, when used on the body interferes with essential endocrine system functioning. Some other ingredients to avoid are artificial colors, parabens, oxybenzone & PABA (all which can cause organ toxicity and hormone disruptions).
So what can you use? Always try to use natural alternatives. For insect repellents citronella, rosemary, and wintergreen essential oils can be blended together in a spray bottle and will not only deter bugs, but also provides a nice refreshing boost to your skin. Some great, natural alternative choices for sunscreen brands are Alba Botanica
and Blue Lizard. Spending a lot of time in the pool? Use coconut oil on your hair to keep it hydrated and as a protectant barrier towards harsh chlorine exposure.
Always be mindful of the time you are spending out in the sun. Remember that 11-2 is peak harmful sun ray exposure time. Replace your old sunscreens with less toxic ones and enjoy healthier and happy skin.
Here's to health and knowledge as you get some fun time in the sun. Stay well!
Life's a Beach,
Enjoy the Waves!
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