Protect Your Skin from Sun Damage Now!

I know what you're thinking at this point: There's no way she is writing about sunscreen - again. Well, yes I am. I have to emphasize to you the importance of sunscreen. It is more important than your daily moisturizer and definitely more valuable than your $300 anti-aging cream (which is probably just an overpriced moisturizer). This is why:

Photo is from the New England Journal of Medicine courtesy of Gizmodo.

Pictured above is a 69-year-old truck driver whose left side of the face was constantly exposed to sunlight throughout his driving career. The difference between the two sides of his face is all due to sun damage, not genetics, poor diet, or any of those generic excuses. Pure sun damage. Now imagine your face in a few years without any sun protection. Even if you don't spend most of your days outdoors or under the sun, you can probably imagine the damage you could save your skin. Remember that prevention is more effective than any form of repair.

For the summer, protect yourself with a water-resistant sunscreen like the MuradWater Resistant Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30. This long-lasting, high SPF waterproof formula protects skin with three active sunscreens. Pomegranate extract enhances sun protection and prevents free radical damage; Patented Skin Repair System protects elasticity to maintain skin firmness; hyaluronic acid and phyto-lipids preserve skin's moisture barrier.

Murad Water Resistant Subscreen

If you prefer an oil-free formula, I recommend the Murad Oil-Free Sunscreen. It has SPF 30 with PA+++ to prevent sun and free radical damage as well as provide hydration. The antioxidant-rich formula prevents signs of premature aging caused by environmental exposure by delivering powerful UVA/UVB protection. It also contains panthenol and sodium PCA to lock in moisture. This oil-free formula contains micro-minerals to provide an oil-free matte finish that won't break you out.

Murad Oil-free Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Murad Age-Proof Suncare Review Summary

Review by Katherine on July 6, 2012

Product: Let's admit it, Murad never really makes bad products. These sunscreens are effective and contain my ideal amount of SPF. Anything lower than SPF 30 and I don't think I have enough coverage, anything higher and I become a ghastly ghoul in every photo.

Application: These sunscreens apply smoothly and absorb quickly without making the face pale or painted. The mattifying formula works great to make the skin not look greasy.

Packaging: These sunscreens are simply and efficiently packaged in standard squeeze tubes.

Value: The waterproof formula costs $30 for 4.3 fl oz while the oil-free formula costs $31 for 1.7 fl oz. I find that they both work equally well for my skin, so I would lean towards the waterproof formula. Especially during the summer, I recommend starting with the waterproof sunscreen - unless you're acne-prone, sensitive to oil or just plain loaded.

The MuraSol Antioxidant Defense Technology in these sunscreens make them the ideal protection from the sun. Consider the Murad Age-proof Suncare line - especially if you haven't found your holy grail. 5/5

Disclosure: The post mentions PR samples sent for consideration. All opinions and reviews are always completely honest and my own.