By Christina Ross, Senior Scientist at Credo
Live Tinted Hueguard Mineral SPF Moisturizer + Primer
In addition to sun safe tips like staying hydrated, seeking shade, and wearing hats and sunglasses… Here are five tips to consider when choosing and using sunscreens.
1. Inventory what you have
Sunscreens are not meant to last forever! Check any products you have on hand to make sure they aren’t expired. Be sure your sunscreen has been stored in a cool, dry place – anything stored in cars, garages, or exposed to extreme heat or cold is likely no longer as protective against UV rays. Also, make sure that any products you have on hand have been properly closed and sealed – otherwise the product could have been exposed to bacteria or microbes.Lastly, be sure to check any products you have to ensure they’re labeled as “broad spectrum” - this means you will be protected from both UVA and UVB sun rays.
2. Sensitive to sunscreens?
Some people find themselves sensitive to certain chemical sunscreen ingredients (such as oxybenzone or avobenzone). If this is the case for you, rest assured that Credo does not sell any chemical sunscreens. In fact, all of our sunscreen products use zinc oxide as the active ingredient for broad-spectrum UV protection, which is considered by dermatologists to be the go-to ingredient for sensitive skin types. Although zinc oxide once had a bad rap (deserved!) for leaving a white cast on the skin or being hard to rub in, new formulations and technology have really stepped up the game, and are much more pleasant to use, even for darker skin tones.
Kinship Self Reflect Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 32
EleVen by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35
3. When to Apply Sunscreen During Summer Festivities
Love to swim or sweat it out in the summer heat with exercise? There are many kinds of sunscreens on the market today, so you can easily find a product that is best for your skin type and activity type. When you’re planning on being active and in the sun, look for products that are water resistant so that you can swim or sweat in confidence. There are also stick formulations that are easy to toss in your bag and not worry about any spills. (And, remember to follow all labeling instructions to learn when to apply sunscreen after that swim or sweat session).
EleVen by Venus Williams Game. Set. Match. Body Lotion SPF 50
Juice Beauty SPF 30 Sport Sunscreen
4. Daily facial Sun Care
Dermatologists recommend wearing sunscreen year round on areas of your body that are exposed to the environment daily (such as your face and neck). Now is the perfect time to get started on this habit. While you certainly don’t need to use a different sunscreen for your face and body, it can be nice to have a few options. Consider stocking up on a skincare-based sunscreen that can act as a moisturizer and even provide you a tint of color, too.
ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
MARA Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum
And, don’t forget those especially sensitive lips by protecting them with a balm or something to provide a sweep of color! 
EleVen by Venus Williams Perfect Form Lip Balm SPF 15
5. SPF values and application
When shopping for sunscreens, experts recommend using at least an SPF 30. And remember, it’s absolutely essential that you apply enough sunscreen on exposed skin otherwise you’re not getting the full SPF protection. Experts recommend using the equivalent of a shot glass for your body, in addition to just enough to fill just the bottom of a shot glass (1/2 teaspoon) on your face. Read your product label for exact instructions, but most experts and products recommend that you reapply every two hours when in the sun or after swimming or excessive sweating.Remember the importance of sunscreen and have a happy (and safe) sun season!
Shop all Credo clean sunscreens HERE.
