Sunscreen/Sunblock Question

[savvy]

Here's an article about damage to reefs because of sunscreen.
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news ... coral.html
Google reef-safe or reef-friendly suncreen for a list of safe brands.
Make sure you reapply often to the backs of your legs while snorkeling!

[Gromit]

I don't burn easily but I swear by Key West Aloe products (sunscreen and after sun).

They are by far the best I have found and used. And if you do get burned they treat the burn well and it's not even noticable by the next day.

I found them when I was on a visit to Key West years ago. I've been ordering on line ever since.

Sun products: http://keywestaloe.com/items.asp?Cc=004 ... =0&Tp=&Bc=

After Sun: http://keywestaloe.com/items.asp?Cc=004 ... =0&Tp=&Bc=

The "Too Cool" spray and "Save-a-tan" are my presonal faves and I like their spray oil SPF 15 because it's not too greasy.

[luvstjohn]

Thanks for all the tips. I have always taken the usual precautions in the sun. Cover my head, look for shade, t-shirt in the water, etc. I will definately check with my doctor regarding meds though. I was more asking about brand names that work well. I use the Neutrogena on our faces.

Our villa provides umbrellas too so that helps tremendously. Everyone here is such a wealth of information, I appreciate everyone's input.

Bre

[cocosmom]

I know I put this on the sun poisoning thread but I swear by clear zinc. I am a fair blue-eyed older person who tends to get brown spots from the sun. I ALWAYS put it on my face and lips when outdoors. I use it when I just take a walk at home or spend the day at the beach. I want NO sun damage to my face. I do not get ANY tanning at all to my face with it on and that is fine for me.(bronzer works well with no damage) I always find it at Walmart. Just make sure it says clear zinc. It is a white cream that turns clear as you rub it on. You can find small jars, not big tubes but this will help the most sensitive areas.

[luvstjohn]

I was at Target yesterday and they have the Up and Up equivalent to the Neutrogena products. I did some label comparisons and they are pretty much the same thing ingredient wise. Also, I did more research and there is a significant difference between sunscreen and sunblock. I guess that's pretty obvious but I thought they basically did the same thing. However, finding sunblock in a spray has proven difficult. Maybe because they are generally thicker and hard to spray? Maybe I will just double up. Rub on first, let dry then spray. We arent leaving until end of June so I have time to try it out before we arrive in paradise.

Bre

[Capn Dan and Ruby]

More on this guys. I know that many of you will freak on this, but I pre-tan carefully. Plus do what I said earlier. I know..., but I think it is better than a burn and I am really careful and don't do it too fast. I have only had 1 minor sunburn in the 3 trips to STJ. Plus we live on the coast in FL and I am outside alot and don't have a problem, even thougth I am very fair.