Lifestyle: Think you have a Sun Allergy? Three SPF Sunscreen Items you should be using right now

Four years ago I realized that the sun had an adverse reaction on my skin. After spending time in the sun;  my skin would break out into a red rash, on my arms, stomach, chest, back and face.  Two years ago during my search for an alternative option to prescribed creams and long sleeved shirts and pants recommended by my doctor; I learned from a CVS pharmacist that the reactions I suffered were symptoms of a sun allergy. The pharmacist recommended that I use a SPF (sun protection factor) Sunscreen. Two years later, sunscreen has become one of my best friends and I even make sure I purchase chap-stick with SPF to protect my  lips too. See below for three sunscreen items I carry in my bag on a daily basis to protect my skin and also prevent skin irritation. You should be able to find all of these products  at your local CVS or drugstore.


1. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer UV
An oil -free lightweight moisturizer with SPF that moisturizes the skin and protects the skin's natural barrier. This product protects the skin from UVA. UVB rays. To learn more see here.  

2. SoftLips Lip Protectant & Sunscreen in Watermelon ( SPF 20) 2 ct
SoftLips Lip Protectant come in a variety of flavors from Vanilla, Watermelon, Raspberry and more. With SPF 15- 20 they keep your lips hydrated and protected from sunburn. After stumbling upon these, I don't think I will ever use any other chap-stick. To learn more see here.


3. Banana Boat Ultra Sport Sunscreen Spray 6oz
This sunscreen has changed my life for the better and has protected my skin from sunburn and rash. Though it is recommended for those who play sports, I particularly like this sunscreen because it lightweight and cooling. It also is non-greasy, and a little goes a long way. Sweat-proof and water-proof,  you can spray this on before working out outdoors or before going swimming at the beach and it is water resistant for up to 80 minutes.It ranges in SPF from 30/50 ( I use SPF 30 as my skin is darker and doesn't need anything higher),  and protects from UVA/UVB rays. For more information see here .




A Sun Allergy is an immune system reaction to sunlight, most often, an itchy red rash. The most common locations include the "V" of the neck, the back of the hands, the outside surface of the arms and the lower legs. In rare cases, the skin reaction may be more severe, producing hives or small blisters that may even spread to skin in clothed areas." Harvard Medical Publishing. For more information on Sun Allergy (Photosensitivity), and the symptoms and prevention, see here .

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