June 1, 2022
Prevention 101: Everything You Need to Glow
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Cliché? Sure. But when it comes to skincare, it couldn't be truer. While the cause of many skin conditions is complicated, being proactive especially with SPF can often stop skin woes in their tracks. Read on to learn how sun protection can prevent flare-ups and further damage from common skin complaints.
Acne
Ever heard the old myth that sunlight is good for acne? Don't be fooled. While the sun might seem to dry out your pimples at first, it inflames your skin over time, which can send acne into overdrive. Plus, many acne medications make your skin more sensitive to UV rays. For SPF, aim for one thats non-comedogenic (won't clog pores).
Our SPF pick for acne:
IPKN Big Apple Sun Cream SPF 50
Rosacea
If you deal with rosacea, chances are you already know why it's important to protect your face from the sun. Sunlight is one of the primary triggers for symptoms like flushing, bumps, and broken veins. As with any rosacea products, choose a sunscreen that's specially formulated for sensitive skin. Mineral SPFs can be especially gentle.
Our SPF pick for rosacea:
Supergoop! Cloud 9 100% Mineral Sun Balm SPF 40
Hyperpigmentation
Sunlight triggers melanin production which gives you a tan. But it also causes hyperpigmentation (aka age spots, aka uneven skin tone). The best way to allow your skin to heal and prevent further hyperpigmentation is to use SPF all day, every day. Tip: Choose a tinted sunscreen to even out your complexion for a smoother, more flawless finish.
Our SPF pick for hyperpigmentation:
Purlisse Perfect Glow BB Cream SPF 30
Character Lines (Wrinkles)
Up to 80% of aging signs may be caused by sun exposure. UV rays damage the elastic fibers that keep skin firm, leading to fine lines and wrinkles. Since aging skin is often drier, look for a hydrating sunscreen with a dewy finish.
Our SPF pick for character lines:
Supergoop! Glow Stick SPF 50
Dryness
Think of how fast the sun dries wet pavement. It parches your skin, too, making dry skin rougher and flakier. Look for a sunscreen with moisturizing ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, or hyaluronic acid.
Our SPF pick for dryness:
COOLA Refreshing Water Cream Organic Face Sunscreen SPF 50
Looking for more protection? Whatever your skin needs, there's a sunscreen for you in the Birchbox shop.
Jac Wray
While a self-described social butterfly, I find empowerment in my independence. Taking myself on a spur of the moment solo vacation, dinner dates to new restaurants or parts of the city where my company is solely the characters in the book I bring, visiting the local bar and getting to know the bartenders over a glass of wine… or 3. I find that intimate moments with myself leave me feeling brave, confident, and empowered to take on the world without depending on anything else as a buffer. It also gives me time to reflect, plan, journal and explore new places at my own pace.