Thursday, August 21, 2008

Do You Believe In Magic? Or Sunscreen?

I used to think it was me. Why is it so easy for others to move through the world, trusting experts, accepting things? Well, it looks like the medical industry is again selling us a lie. Sigh.

But still, let's review more sunscreens! They're all equally effective on my pearly skin, and while the slight tan I've accumulated on my right arm highlights the scars, I do think the regular application of sunscreen has benefits. Proof will be if I ever need Mohs surgery.

Aveeno Active Naturals Continuous Protection Sunblock Spray SPF 45: There's a lot to like about spray on sunscreen. The smell is minimal, and it absorbs quicker and leaves less residue than other sunscreens. You also don't need to rub it in. The problem is you wind up overspraying yourself when the can is fresh, and wandering around naked until you dry off.It's easier to apply when the can is half empty. The other thing is that you get fewer applications out of a $9 can--it only lasts me about a week.

Murad Oil-Free Sunblock SPF 30: This was a Christmas gift from Genevieve. Dr. Murad has a whole line of skincare (ah, the things you learn reading Elle!), and this is an excellent daily wear sunscreen. The texture is very fine, like moisturizer, and absorption rate is about medium. It sits on your skin, but disappears at a reasonable rate. A slight powdery feeling remains on the skin but it's not unpleasant.

The lotion smells faintly of lemon, which might set up a craving. I recommend the Whole Foods lemon tart.

Zia Age Defying Solar Care Body SPF 30: I was so please to find this stashed under the sink. I thought I had lost it back in April, but no, my sister just moved it out of sight so I couldn't find it.

This is expensive crunchy granola sunscreen, but it is amazing. I first used it driving to NJ, when I noticed I was getting burned. One quick application and I was no longer burning. It takes effect very quickly. and I swear I cannot tell that I have it on at all.

Terribly expensive though--a 4 oz tube was about $13. This was originally a gift from Genevieve, but I had to sacrifice my original tube to the TSA ogres at Newark. It's worth it for its effectiveness. Points off for having no expiration date on the tube. The smell is the best, a little like pie crust. Oh, and the only place I've seen it is Wild Oats. Like I said, crunchy.

Yes, Genevieve is my sunscreen source. Along with beauty world connections, she also has Celtic/Slav skin. It takes one to know one.

2 comments:

Genevieve said...

Oh no! They stole your sunblock?! The Zia is more expensive than the Murad? (That was one of my freebies from the sample closet)

I may go buy myself some more Murad soon (in the 15spf variety, which does absorb better, but not sure how it would stand up in Arizona) since I find myself not using the Eucerin Q-10 I bought. Every year past 30 my forehead wrinkles seem to be doubling, so I guess I should just suck it up and buy something I'll use. FYI, they sell all the Murad products at Sephora.

Kerry said...

I've had a forehead crease since I was 12. I just incorporate it as part of my Warholian fashion philosophy. You saw the NY Times article this week about scientifically proven wrinkle treatments, right? I sent it to Dusie because she's always muttering about Botox.

Personally, I'm going for the Olay Regenerist serum once I have a job. Although I think I'm keeping the wrinkles in check. Sunglasses really help.