It’s that time of year again. The pool is temptingly cool, the barbecue is smoking, and the sun is baking. Pool parties are so much better when you look and feel your very best. We’ve got you covered (and uncovered) with the hottest tips, products, and treatments for looking fabulous while you protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Keep reading to learn about the La Chelé favorites to live by while you reach for your summer pool-party perfection.
Not all SPFs are Created Equal
Nothing feels better on your skin than the warm summer sun, and even though we now know better, we occasionally spend a little too much time soaking up the rays without the right protection. The effects of UV exposure add years to the look of our skin, and dramatically increase our risk of skin cancers. As we head into the sunny summer months in our flirtiest summer clothes, we need to get sunscreen smart.
How do you choose a sunscreen, and what is “SPF”? SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, which measures the product’s ability to block UVB rays—the rays that cause sunburn–though not UVA which are also damaging. We recommend using a water-resistant Broad Spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to block both UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen about 20 minutes prior to heading out, and reapply at least every 2 hours. And don’t forget about the kiddies! Their young skin is especially sensitive, and the harmful effects of exposure will be with them all their lives.
What’s the difference between physical and chemical sun blocks? Physical blocks contain minerals such as zinc or titanium oxide, and work by reflecting the harmful UV rays away from the skin. Physical blocks are ideal for sensitive skin since they sit on top of the skin and don’t penetrate. Chemical sun blocks absorb the UV radiation and can be more “cosmetically elegant,” but tend to be less effective. Since what we’re after is protection, we prefer physical sun blocks.
What products do we recommend? Let’s start with Even Up for the face. It’s broad-spectrum, water-resistant, SPF 50, and has a sheer tint that blends with most complexions. Even Up has extra ingredients that also help brighten and even skin tone over time. It’s a great primer for make-up. To keep you protected throughout the day, we love ColorScience Brushes, with either SPF 30 or 50. This is a mineral powder physical sunscreen that won’t disturb make-up, and is conveniently sized for your handbag or car console. For the whole family, and those who don’t want a tinted block on the face, we love Elta Sport. It’s water-resistant and perfect for outdoor sports while being safe for sensitive skin — it won’t sting if it gets into your eyes!
Fresh, Clean, and Fierce
Getting our skin really clean can be challenging in the summer, what with sweat, sunblock, and makeup blocking our pores. Deep cleanse and exfoliate your skin with a Clarisonic device — the #1 device recommended by U.S. dermatologists. This device work wonders on all skin types, but most especially those prone to acne. The unique Clarisonic SMART Profile Uplift is a 2-in-1 cleansing and micro-firming face massage device that targets 15 signs on aging on the face, neck, and décolletage. Not only does this device reduce fine lines after only one week of use, you can actually see that your pores are shrinking.
The Best Summertime Cleansers
Start the summer with clear, clean skin using La Chelé Revitalizing Cleanser. This everyday invigorating cleanser revitalizes sensitive skin, leaving it soft, smooth, and supple. Light lathering protects the skin’s natural barrier, preventing it from being overly dry. Thanks to its essential anti-aging nutrients and a bonus dose of Vitamins C and E, your skin will be noticeably younger looking.
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