March Break Sun Vacation Tips

The most frequently asked question I get around sunny vacation time is about sunscreen usage. Some of the typical questions are: is sunscreen is necessary, what are the good ones to use, if it will cause breakouts, and most recently if it is blocking my vitamin D absorption from the sun.

Yes sunscreen is absolutely necessary for a sunny vacay. I like to have 2 different ones; one for the face that doesn't cast a white ghost-like glow and one for the body that is easy to apply often.

The term sunblock doesn't really exist anymore as now we know nothing can completely block the UVA and UVB rays of the sun.

Ideally your sunscreen is a physical sunscreen not a chemical sunscreen.

Physical sunscreens use zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide, which do not get absorbed into the skin and have an excellent safety record.

Chemical sunscreens use smaller particle chemicals that do get into the skin like oxybenzone and octinoxate, and are known to be hormone disruptors, allergens or carcinogens.

I love AlumierMD sunscreen line as they are paraben free and free from chemical filters. The texture and consistency is also wonderful for the face. I also like Jane Iredale's SPF powder, Green Beaver sunscreens, ThinkSport, and Consonant Perfect Sunscreen.

Some sun tips for your March break vacay with the kids:

1. Purchase swimwear that has long sleeves for smaller toddlers to protect as much skin as possible.

2. Hats and sunglasses and big umbrellas for beach or poolside go a long way for both kids and adults to protect the face and eyes and offer some shade.

3. Try to avoid that hot mid-day sun between 11 and 2. Plan for a siesta and indoor lunch to give yourself and family a sun break.

4. Use the appropriate amount of sunscreen. You want to use almost a teaspoon for the face and ears. A little less for a smaller person :)

5. Re-apply after a pool or ocean swim or a sweaty game of beach volleyball.

6. Stay hydrated, watch alcohol intake and bring along some single AgeQuencher electrolytes!

7. Bring light gauze-like or linen tops to wear without getting too hot but still offering sun protection.

8. If you are prone to cold-sores consider buying a lip balm with sunscreen - I love the Green Beaver lip saver. The sun can activate those cold sores!

Enjoy your sunny vacation. And remember sunscreen is important all year long, not just in the summer, and not just on a sunny vacation.

Even when you return from vacation and you are indoors sitting at a computer screen all day, a physical sunscreen is important.

UV light is the leading cause of the aging process. We also now know that the light being emitted from screens - computers and phones - can also cause cell shrinkage and death. Emerging studies also suggest blue light causes pigmentation changes in the skin!

For my favourite face sunscreen check out AlumierMD Sheer Hydration or Clear Shield or Consonant Perfect Sunscreen!