In recent tests conducted by Consumer Reports one third of the 34 sunscreens tested did not have the level of SPF that was on their label. According to Consumer Report, there are still many that offer excellent protection and surprisingly, the most effective appear to be those with the lowest prices.

1. Coppertone Water Babies SPF 50 lotion, $10.50
2. Equate (Wal-Mart) Ultra Protection SPF 50 lotion $9
3. Banana Boat Sun Comfort Continuous Spray SPF 50+, $11

Natural sunscreens have fewer irritants than chemical products, yet many do not offer complete protection.  Five were tested and only two met their SPF claims, however, they did not earn high enough scores for UVA protection.

1. California Baby Super Sensitive SPF 30+, $20
2. Goddess Garden Organics Sunny Body Natural SPF 30

The highest-rated sunblock tested was LaRoches-Possy Anthelios 60 Melt-in Sunscreen Milk SPF 60, which tested at 100% and cost $36.00 for a 5-ounce bottle. Although it’s a bit costly, it is well worth the investment to protect your skin from UV rays. SPF is a relative measure of how long a sunscreen will protect you from those UVB rays that cause sunburn and contribute to damage that can lead to skin cancer. Both UVB and UVA ultraviolet radiation from the sun can contribute to skin damage.  UVA rays penetrate deeper, potentially damaging cells and contributing to skin cancers. The Sunscreen Innovation Act, signed into law last fall, mandated that the FDA work to reduce its backlog of applications for new sun blocker ingredients.  The US has not expanded its approved sun protection ingredients since 1999! Applying the right product correctly and reapplying often is the key to keeping your skin healthy during sun exposure. Makeup Primer If you are tired of having your makeup smudge, crease or just seem to disappear, then primer is a must have for you. What are primers?  Primers are products that are airy bases that create a smooth surface.  Usually they contain silicones.  Silicone can be detrimental for those with acne as they tend to clog pores and trap oils since they form a film on top of the skin.  Look for primers that are non-comedogenic. What does a primer do?  Their purpose is to prepare the surface of your face much like a canvas before the painting.  They hold pigment in place for hours, fill in pores and fine lines and give a satin-smooth finish. How do you know which color is right for you? A general guide to choosing the correct primer for your skin is first look in the mirror. If your skin looks dull choose a light pink primer, sallow skin can be brightened with a lilac primer, and red skin is neutralized with a green primer. To use a primer, first apply your moisturizer after cleansing and toning your face.  Let it set for a few minutes to absorb into your face.  Then apply the primer and the rest of your beauty regime. How do I apply primer? Use an amount equal to the size of a raisin. If you use too much it will pill under your makeup.  Gently rub it in for even coverage. You may find that you need more than one color primer due to varying areas of your skin. Sandi’s Skin Talk Q:  I buy things when on they’re on sale. How long can I keep mascara that isn’t opened? A:  One year or longer if it has not been exposed to air.  Mascara has the shortest shelf life of all makeup products. Q:  Can I use baby oil to remove my makeup at night? A:   Baby oil is very gentle, yet it may not be your best choice for makeup removal.  The oil traps oil and bacteria, which can cause irritation.  A safer choice would be olive or almond oil. Q:  My kids are so prone to being bitten by mosquitos and black flies.  Is there a natural recipe I can make to help with the itching? A:  Here is one you might like: In a 4-ounce spritzer, combine ½ Witch Hazel and ½ Aloe Vera, 15 drops of tea tree and 15 drops of lavender. Shake and spray. Q:  I have been looking for a good hand lotion that I can make at home. Do you have a recipe? A:  Yes.  Here is one that you can try: ½ tablespoon Sweet Almond Oil 2 tablespoons Coconut Oil 3 tablespoons grated beeswax 30-35 drops of lavender Heat the oils and beeswax in a pan for 5 minutes until melted Refrigerate for 5-10 minutes Add the lavender essential oil Pour into jars and cover. In cooler temperature it will have a more solid consistency than in warmer temperatures. There are also several recipes to help repel those pesky insects. Try this one: 2 ounces of distilled or boiled water 1.5 ounces of vodka or Witch Hazel 30 drops of citronella essential oil 15 drops of peppermint essential oil 1 teaspoon of jojoba oil (if you use this option decrease the vodka or Witch Hazel to one ounce) Use a 4 ounce spray bottle. Fill with the water and the other ingredients.  Shake and spray. Views:]]>