When I was younger, I didn’t care whether or not I have sunscreen before taking a plunge in the pool for my swimming lessons. That huge mistake led me to hate the sport as I got teased for developing really dark skin (with tan lines) and worse – intense blotches. According to the US FDA, the simple truth is that tanned skin may mean damaged skin and that is not something you should be showing off like that medal. That “glowing red” color is you skin cell’s response to extreme ultraviolet exposure and all your damaged cells are then instructed to sacrifice themselves which is why whole layers of your skin peels off! You need sun protection that is willing and able to run, swim and cross the finish line with you.
After years of switching from product to product (and finally learning my lesson), let me take this opportunity to share with you one of my go-to brands which has a complete line of sunscreens for day-to-day use. Did you know that there’s a specific product for every activity that you do? Here’s a rundown of each:
1. Neutrogena CoolDry Sport
When to use it: For marathons, swimming, tedious outdoor activities
The new Neutrogena’s CoolDry Sport is that missing link you needed to your outdoor workout routine. It gives you protection from unwanted UVA and UVB light with SPF50. It is an upgraded mist application with higher protection under the sun. Its Micromesh Technology makes it sweat and water resistant, as tried and tested during my recent outdoor trip. With its formulation, it’s also easy to apply in hard-to reach spots.
2. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer UV Waterlight Lotion
When to use it: For daily face protection
Lightweight, non-sticky, and oil-free – these are the top three descriptions that best describe this lotion. The Neutrogena Ultra Sheer UV Waterlight Lotion also doesn’t clog pores, but it also doesn’t make your face feel oily. It gets absorbed into the skin easily and has a superior UVA/UVB protection of SPF50, as stated in its packaging.
3. Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Dry-touch Lotion
When to use it: For day-to-day body protection
Of course, face protection isn’t enough! For full body protection, the Waterlight Lotion can be paired with the Ultra Sheer Dry-touch Lotion that has an ultra light and non-shiny finish. It’s also water resistant so no need to worry about getting sweaty during outdoor activities. It also contains the same superior UVA/UVB protection with SPF50.
4. Neutrogena’s Beach Defense
When to use it: For water and sun protection even at the beach
A notch higher than the other sunscreens, the Neutrogena Beach Defense has SPF70 beach-strength UVA/UVB protection. Although containing a higher SPF, it remains lightweight, fast-absorbing, and water resistant like the rest.
The range is oil-free and features Micromesh™ Technology which allows sweat to pass through and evaporate while the durable sun protection stays put. We highly recommend this for people who have sensitive skin. I have Skin Asthma yet my skin doesn’t get irritated by this sunscreen, unlike others that tend to leave a stinging sensation as soon as I get exposed to the sun.
Even while wearing just a bikini or a tank top during a hot summer day, it’s easy to keep our skin #FullyCovered from the sun! I already said goodby to sunburns, so take this chance to spare yourself from the pain as well!
Do you have other anti-sunburn tips to share? Let us know by tagging Manila Millennial on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Update: For those who are wondering, Neutrogena’s CoolDry Sport (SRP 699) is available exclusively at Watsons branches nationwide.