LOLZLetter 133 | Sunscreen
Welcome,
This week's newsletter is all about sunscreen. It's not the most glamorous topic, but it’s a topic relevant to everyone. A good friend was asking about good sunscreens for running, and I realized many people might find the information useful.
Even if you don't get sunburned easily or if you live in a cloudy spot for most of the year. I don't sunburn much at all, but sun damage is always happening.
No one really wants to apply sunscreen before a run. It might not even be something you think about. Living in the desert now, there is zero shade on my runs, and sunscreen has quickly become at the forefront of my mind.
Shoes? Check.
Cool Clothing? Check.
Water? Check.
Headphones? Check.
Did I apply sunscreen?
As runners, we put a lot of time trying to figure out the best shoes and gear for us. We don't always put a lot of effort into things like sunscreen, but it makes a huge difference with the heat.
Plus, if you've ever had a bad experience with running and sunscreen, like it sticking to your eyes or face, then you are even more hesitant.
What you might not know:
Recently, the FDA did a study of if and how much sunscreen ingredients were being absorbed into the skin. The study concluded that that the two ingredients: titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, are generally safe.
Two ingredients: PABA and Tolamine salicylate, are not safe. PABA and Tolamine salicylate cannot legally be sold in the United States.
Current research also doesn't support that you "sweat more" because you have a layer of sunscreen. This is a myth, but honestly, it was something I believed for a LONG TIME.
What should you look for in a sport sunscreen?
The best and most comfortable sunscreens are going to be oil-free, water-resistant, and fragrance-free. They'll prevent stinging in your eyes.
What SPF Should You Use?
The easiest way to remember SPF is, if it takes your skin 1 minute to burn, an SPF of 30 means it will now take your skin 30 minutes to burn. Experts recommend an SPF of at least 30. More is not always better, and the benefits of SPF 50+ are not much better than SPF 50.
Here are a few sunscreens that are great for running outdoors.
Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50
Why do I like it? Thin, easy to spread, and doesn't feel sticky.
Kinesys SPF 50 Fragrance-Free Spray
Why do I like it? Quick-drying. It uses a fine mist pump and spreads as a thin layer. It is one of the fastest drying sunscreens I've tried. It's also available at several running stores, so you know it's good for running.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 100+
Why do I like it? It's not messy. While yes, there is little difference between SPF 50 and SPF 100, it's nice to have that option. Plus, Neutrogena is sensitive on the face, so it is less likely to cause you to break out.
Why do I like it? Like Michelle Branch once said, you're everywhere. Coppertone Sport Clear SPF is one of the most well-known and easiest-to-find sunscreens. It lasts while working out and doesn't feel sticky. Good sunscreen doesn't have to be fancy, just available.
Banana Boat Sport Mineral SPF 50
Why do I like it? It's one of the lightest sunscreens out there. You don't feel it, and it uses fewer ingredients than the average sunscreen.
Eleven by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35
Why do I like it? How fun that Venus Williams made sunscreen? But it's also good! It's specifically designed for your face.
No matter the season, sunscreen is important! Yes, even if it's cloudy or you don't burn easily. I sound like a broken record, but sunscreen is going to keep your skin healthier.
Finally, the best sunscreen for you is the one you use. It's as easy as that.
What is Keeping Me Entertained?
Shoe Review: Brooks Ghost 14 Shoe Review
Product Review: Megrelief Review Megrelief is both black-owned and veteran-owned. It's a 100% natural pain relief solution. Think like Icey-hot or Biofreeze. I recently tried it, and I'm kind of obsessed.
How to Make Running Solo More Enjoyable
Training Log: What’s Next What's next for me personally.
Over It: How to Face Life’s Hurdles with Grit, Hustle, and Grace by Lolo Jones. Easily one of the best running books I've read ever. I appreciate and enjoy how open and honest professional runner Lolo Jones is.
Faith Kipyegon is queen of her domain...
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