It’ll take more than a big floppy hat to protect you from all those ultraviolet rays at the pool or picnic this summer. Try these five easy ways to save your skin before, during, and after your time in the sun.
| Vitamin E, bilberry, green tea, astaxanthin | Pycnogenol | Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide | Retinol or retinyl | Aloe vera |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use: Before | Use: Before | Use: During | Use: Before and after | Use: After |
| Why: Antioxidants neutralize free radicals produced by skin in response to sun exposure. | Why: This proprietary antioxidant, derived from the bark of a French pine tree, reverses the effects of sun-related aging. | Why: These physical sunscreens reflect the sun’s UVA and UVB rays before free radicals have a chance to oxidize and damage skin. | Why: These vitamin A derivatives stimulate collagen growth and reverse signs of sun damage. | Why: If you’ve managed to get sunburned, use the soothing gel from this succulent. |
| How: Supplement daily with at least one of these ingredients. | How: Apply to skin before you put on sunscreen. | How: Apply liberally every two hours. Chemical blocks require 20 minutes before they set, whereas zinc and titanium protect skin immediately. | How: Apply before sunscreen and before bed. | How: Keep an aloe plant growing at home. In case of emergency, snap off a stalk, squeeze out the gel, and gently spread over skin. |
| Tips: Eye-health supplements often contain astaxanthin and can be taken for sun protection. The more colorful (purple, blue, green, orange) your diet, the more antioxidants you’re getting. | Tips: Try Derma E Pycnogenol Face Cream, or take 100-200 mg/day in a supplement. | Tips: Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide go on white (think “lifeguard nose”), but finely ground, cream-based products are transparent. Try Dr. Hauschka Sunscreen Cream SPF 20. | Tips: If you experience light flaking while using retinol, apply every other night until skin adjusts. Try Zia Natural Skincare Ultimate Night Renewal. | Tips: Aloe is available in myriad lotions. Try Jason Aloe Vera 98% Moisturizing Gel. |
