In this three-part series, we’ll dive deep into the myths of suncare, and why you should never start a day without sunscreen (or a cup of coffee). Over the course of three weeks, we will bust some of the most common SPF myths many people believe to be true despite the hard facts. In part one of SPF Mythbusters, we will explore the importance of wearing sunscreen beyond a sandy beach day.

Let’s break down a little sun science before we get started:

The sunlight that reaches us is made up of two types of harmful rays: long wave ultraviolet A (UVA) and short wave ultraviolet B (UVB). UVA rays penetrate deep into the dermis, the skin’s thickest layer. Unprotected exposure can lead to premature skin aging and wrinkling (photoaging), and suppression of the immune system. UVB rays will usually burn the superficial layers of your skin. However, just because you did not get a sunburn, doesn’t mean you are protected In fact, while it’s true UVB rays are more severe in different locations, during certain seasons or at specific times of the day (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), clouds are no match to UVA light, which means those damaging rays penetrate through and can contribute to future sun damage.

MYTH: You’re only in the sun for 30 minutes and it is not a hot day. You don’t need sunscreen.

You only need sunscreen if you’re wearing a bikini or going on a long hike, right? We hate to break it to you, but this is NOT TRUE. Most people practice the habit of brushing and flossing their teeth twice a day and don’t even think twice about their routine. Why isn’t sun protection the same way? Whether you commute an hour to a nine-to-five job or you’re always on the go, sunscreen should be a part of your daily glam routine. Face, neck, arms and legs - anything exposed - are susceptible to sun damage regardless if you feel the sun is intense enough or not.

According to a recent article published by ASDS, “The increase in skin pigment called melanin, which causes your skin to tan, is a sign of damage. Once skin is exposed to UV radiation, it increases the production of melanin in an attempt to protect the skin from further damage.” An increase of melanin may cause your skin to darken over the following two days after sun exposure. Each time your skin is unprotected from the sun, the risk for developing sun-related illness increases and over time, this can lead to aged-skin or skin cancer. According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS), a natural, healthy tan (meaning a tan obtained directly from the sun) does not exist. Any sort of sun tan that changes your complexion from one hue to another will potentially cause damage down the road. Yikes!

We all have skin. There’s no need to be jealous of that friend who doesn’t burn because we’re all on a level playing field and we are all susceptible to sun damage and skin cancer, no matter your skin color!

So here’s the deal: Wear sunscreen every day and reapply often. Do it for the love of your skin and for the benefits you’ll experience 10 years from now, like being the one who looks younger than all of your friends! Stay protected every day with one of our organic sunscreen products that you can feel good about putting on your skin. Our products incorporate a Farm to Face® sourcing philosophy, using the freshest and most natural ingredients whenever possible. We formulate with Plant Protection®, natural phyto-protectors including Algae, Red Raspberry Seed Oil, and Plankton to help naturally boost our formulas. These high-performance plant-based boosters offer additional protection, and result in lightweight, non-irritating formulas. Say goodbye to that sticky, greasy feeling!

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Our Organic SPF 30 Makeup Setting Spray is easy, fast and offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection. Don’t let the name fool you - you do not have to be wearing makeup to wear this product. Though it’s designed to keep your glam going all day long, the Makeup Setting Spray delivers a quick hit of hydration and sun protection anytime you need it. Take it to the next level and spray it on the tops of your feet and the backs of your hands while you’re out and about to protect all those sensitive areas from the sun!

Our Eco-Lux Organic Sport SPF 30 Continuous Sunscreen Sprays have your back—and every other inch of your skin—with a bottle that keeps misting even when it's upside down, making it easy to cover your entire body. This sheer, water- and sweat-resistant organic formula is packed with antioxidants and skin-nourishing ingredients, and absorbs fast with no greasy feel that will keep you going all day long!

We get it, we really do. You want that golden glow and not much can stop you. But before you lather yourself in tanning oil and fall asleep in the sun, be sure to check out our Gradual Sunless Tan Collection. It creates a beautiful gradual tan on the skin that lasts up to 3 days without the risk of harming your skin. The products contain an active ingredient, DHA, derived from sugar beets, along with antioxidants to hydrate, nourish, and invigorate the skin! The Sunless Tan Collection is available in a lightweight Face Serum, Dry Oil Mist, Mousse and Lotion.

Sun damage doesn’t happen overnight or even over a few years. It is cumulative; 90% of visible signs of aging are due to sun damage. Although it is difficult to picture yourself 20-30 years down the line, using a daily SPF now will save you from visible sun damage later. Head on over to our website and find products that suit you and your skin’s needs. We love making healthy suncare people love to wear, and we are confident you will find a sunscreen that you will love and that will love you right back!

To learn more about sun science, check out all the research we’ve done to ensure we give you the best possible SPF protection.