S.P.F. = Savvy, Pretty, Fabulous.

SPF – the miraculous potion that takes the years off

I’m always flattered when I get carded at bars, restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations, and event kiosks especially since a quick glance at my ID typically ignites a wide-eyed look of surprise.  I definitely give most of the credit for my youthful glow to my parents who blessed me with smooth skin genes, but mostly I credit them for having the knowledge and good sense to teach me about proper sun protection early on.

Growing up in the Las Vegas desert where I spent loads of time on the lake, at the pool, choreographing awesome rollerskating dances to Michael Jackson hits, bike riding to the mall, and riding my horse, it’s practically a miracle that I don’t look 10 years older than I am.

As a kid I was trained to slather on the sunscreen in liberal amounts.  I even slopped sunscreen on my pink potbelly pigs to prevent their sensitive pink color from turning a painful crimson.  I also learned early on from my grandmother that a hat is not only a strong fashion statement, it has a useful purpose.

Back in the day, we had fewer options.  You’d shop the pharmacy aisle and make a choice between Coppertone, Banana Boat, and Hawaiian Tropic.  You might have an option between waterproof or not, but basically your decisions stopped there.  Things are bit more confusing these days with dozens of companies hawking hundreds of sunscreens.  This summer brands are competing even more aggressively with the invention of SPF 100 products.  Could this actually be the miracle potion I’ve been waiting for?

I did some research to better understand the facts, and since I’m just a vain product whore who’s always up for trying the newest thing, I’ll let The New York Times and their experts explain the medical research behind this year’s new invention.  The findings are pretty darn fascinating.  I will however, give you a taste of my daily routine in hopes that it might help you to amp up your sun protective prowess for a smart and svelte summer glow.

Moisturize

When I wake up I rinse my face and apply DDF Enhancing Sun Protection moisturizer with an SPF of 30 to my face and neck.  This super product has self-blending color spheres that help even skin tone.  For the mornings when I’m headed straight to the gym, I stop my SPF applications there and head out the door with a fresh glow that allows me to look good but still sweat those ugly toxins out.  By keeping it simple I also prevent those embarrassing foundation spots on my gym towel.

Enhance

When I’m applying makeup and getting fancied up, I layer Laura Mercier’s tinted moisturizer with an SPF of 20 over my DDF Enhancing Moisturizer.  Beyond providing another layer of protection, it gives me a clean color foundation and adds a natural radiancy.

Finish

I finish off my face with Lotus Translucent Finishing Powder with SPF of 30 and then paint my cheeks, eyes and lips.  I also carry Peter Thomas Roth’s Instant Mineral Powder with SPF of 30 in my purse for easy on-the-go reapplication throughout the day.  Since it’s not a lotion or cream, you can apply it over your makeup without worry.  You’ll find it especially useful during longer than expected patio lunch dates and spur of the moment shopping excursions.

Protect your other face

Since your neck and chest are connected to your face and a tight face with a loose chest typically screams “face lift”, treat these areas as vigilantly as your face.  Because I’m typically on the run and don’t want to take the time to rub a lotion in, I spray on Peter Thomas Roth’s Continuous Sunscreen Mist with SPF of 30 on my chest and shoulders every morning.

I like this product because it smells more like perfume than sunscreen, but it does have a fairly hefty price tag, so when I’m covering my whole body I opt for Neutrogena’s Fresh Cool Body Mist.  Although it smells more like the beach than Barney’s, you can pick it up in quantity at Costco.  I keep a can stashed in the car, in my beach bag, in my gym bag and in my studio for easy access anytime I need it.

The more the merrier

Reapply liberally and regularly.  After reading The New York Times article you will have a better understanding on why this is key to your sun protection success.

Hard working fabrics

Check back for a whole posting about UV clothing, but in the meantime, take a lesson from the gardener and wear a large-brimmed hat with lightweight, light-colored long sleeve shirt and pants if you plan on spending the whole day under the sun.  By acting as a natural air conditioner, fabric that is slightly damp with perspiration will actually keep you cooler than a bare epidermis.  The hat of course, will serve as your private beach umbrella.