Do you use sunscreen?

[Catrin]

Here's their ingredient list; click on the FAQ and the technical page for more information about micronized zinc oxide.

The label calls it "lightly scented," but I would say the lavender fragrance is fairly strong, so if that bothers you, be forewarned.

I only just started using it, but haven't had any problems with it so far, and my facial skin is super sensitive.

Do you use this for more than your face and does it noticeably whiten your skin? Thanks!

[OakLeaf]

I only regularly put sunblock on my nose and the back of my neck, maybe a little across my cheekbones and ears. Badger is based on olive oil and beeswax, so it's definitely possible that it would be too heavy to put on your arms or back if overheating is a problem for you. Is that why you were asking about putting it somewhere besides my face?

As for whitening... a little bit. According to their FAQ, the zinc oxide particles in Badger sunblock are for the most part larger than what's technically considered nanoparticles, although there's some overlap in the 70-100 nm range. So it's definitely not like the old-style clown-nose zinc oxide preparations; I would say the appearance is more like wearing makeup that's a shade too light for my skin.



Also, poking around Badger's website, I see they now have an unscented version. Men may prefer this too.

[Catrin]

I only regularly put sunblock on my nose and the back of my neck, maybe a little across my cheekbones and ears. Badger is based on olive oil and beeswax, so it's definitely possible that it would be too heavy to put on your arms or back if overheating is a problem for you. Is that why you were asking about putting it somewhere besides my face?

As for whitening... a little bit. According to their FAQ, the zinc oxide particles in Badger sunblock are for the most part larger than what's technically considered nanoparticles, although there's some overlap in the 70-100 nm range. So it's definitely not like the old-style clown-nose zinc oxide preparations; I would say the appearance is more like wearing makeup that's a shade too light for my skin.



Also, poking around Badger's website, I see they now have an unscented version. Men may prefer this too.

I was just looking at their website after posting my question. I asked about your use of this because I am not used to using sunscreen at all - typically I've just avoided the sun and want to find a good non-chemical sunscreen that I can use all over. I am unsure about overheating related to this, which was part of my question

This does seem a more affordable option, though of course there isn't an inexpensive, and good, physical sunscreen. Not that I can find at least. I suspect that I will try this one, Total Block and Skinseuticals (not at the same time) to see which my skin is happiest with. I just do not tan, I just burn...and burn...and...I will use Coppertone until I try one of these products. I don't think I can purchase them locally.

[OakLeaf]

I don't think I can purchase them locally.

Badger Balm is a pretty popular brand. If your local natural food store doesn't already stock the sunblock (or doesn't have the kind you want to try), I'd be very surprised if they wouldn't order some for you. Don't know how you feel about Whole Foods, but I see both their Indy stores are clear the north end and not very close to you, anyway.

[HermitGirl]

I suddenly get why they call it Badger... probably because of the streaking appearance in the face?

[TrekTheKaty]

Last summer, I used Neutrogena Sport 70 on my face (I wear a buff low over my forehead. I concur--suncreen in eyes--YOUCH! The only thing worse, is trying to reapply on the trail and getting a salt scrub facial. Not attractive, but amusing for riding buddies.) I just switched to Proactiv. However, I think I'm going to try the La Roche. My summer freckles are turning into brown spots--not attractive. A neutrogena spray over the arms and legs.

And yes sunscreen expires. Check for an expiration date. Most of my stuff looks like it lasts two years. If you aren't sure, pitch it.

A friend who is a nurse, also recommends physical sunblocks. They eventually blend in, but go on white. She gave me some Solar Sense Clear Zinc for Face while skiing and it's made in Canada! (oxtinoxate)

[Catrin]

Timely discussion indeed. I went for an 18 mile ride at mid-day today, temps were in high 60s, low 70's. Not a cloud in the sky and the sky was a beautiful dark blue. Put Coppertone Sport on my arms and legs, had an a sleeveless jersey.

Problem was I forgot two places - my face and the back of my shoulders. The back of my shoulders are burnt to a crisp, and can't even find a comfy place to lay on....hence my being on TE when I should be sleeping.

I THOUGHT I had put the Coppertone everywhere

Lesson learned....more sunscreen more places...

[abejita]

I got burnt a couple weeks ago too. Very unusual for me too, I don't think that I've had a sunburn since high school! I never ever forget to put on sunscreen...

So I was two laps into my four lap ride (45 miles) and I realized that I hadn't put on sunscreen, I continued on with my last two laps, thinking about my lack of sunscreen the whole way. I knew I was going to be really burnt.

The thing that pissed me off the most was about two blocks from my house, I remembered that I had my 'emergency' sunscreen in my saddlebag! Ugh! I am still peeling a little.