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Did You Know?  The Advice Sisters are credited with bringing the advice/information genre, online,  in Marriage and Family Experience: Relationships Changing Society 8th Edition by Bryan Strong, Christine DeVault, Theodore F. Cohen (Thompson-Wadsworth,2004).

Shine on your lips is sexy, but shine on your face, or breaking through your foundation, is not. Erno Lazlo Antioxidant Mattifying Complex SPF 15  $64.00 3 fl. oz is a colorless, oil-free, moisturizing product that works to quench the shine on normal to very oily skin and it helps protect your skin from the sun's damaging rays with SPF 15. We love the way this light lotion in a plastic bottle with black cap (so it's travel-friendly) conditions oily skin with botanical healers and detoxifiers. while aloe, cucumber and lemongrass heal, calm and refresh. All that is simply great, but what you'll really adore is the this products mattifying effect-- time-released oil control that lasts up to 12 hours. If you tend to be oily in the T-zone or all over, especially in the warmer months, this effective product is a definite "must-have" first step after cleansing and toning.  Follow up an SPF foundation such as Erno Lazlo's Absolute Finish SPF 15 $47.00  (photo), a classy-looking marbleized plastic jar of mousse foundation in 8 different shades from light to dark, that is water-free and air-whipped to the consistency of a  "liquid powder." This formula slides over skin, even skin that's dry, damaged or irritated, and gives you a medium-coverage, flawless, matte finish that looks like you had it professionally applied.  Like all Erno Lazlo products, this foundation has some exotic ingredients that multi-task: Emollient Emu Oil moisturizes without clogging pores. Advanced fatty acids that mimic those found in skin offer skin conditioning bennies, but without excess oiliness *A complex network of powerful antioxidant Vitamins A,C,and E, help protect against the signs of aging. Of course, the SPF 15 protection means your skin is getting extra help in looking, feeling, and staying, healthy and safe. For those who prefer a sheer tint, Erno Lazio Tinted Treatment SPF 15 $38.00 provides sheer color with a sunscreen. The product comes in a small tube, in "Light, Medium, Tan and Dark". The product is so sheer, that it will adjust to suit just about every complexion from very light, to quite dark. Unlike some tinted moisturizing products that can get oily over time, this silicone-based formula has a "self-regulating" matrix that releases emollients only where needed. That means your skin gets the hydration it requires, but without overdosing the spots that are less dry. An anti-aging, marine collagen Extract also helps to firm and minimize fine lips, while  optical diffusers make imperfections seem less significant. If you're seeking skin care, sun protection and a bit of foundation flattering product for your face without the "made up" look, this is a perfect choice.

The first thing I noticed about the  Light Response Liquid Foundation SPF 15 $6.95 by Prestige is the exceptional packaging. A super-slim square of matte silver plastic with "porthole" in the center (so you can see the color) has an equally sleek, shiny silver cap. It's so slim, you can tuck it into tight jeans and not make a bulge. The product inside blends beautifully, with medium to full coverage. The oil-free formula is creamy, but not greasy, and it features light refracting  particles that adjust to help your skin look its best no matter where you are. We tried the lightest "LRF-01 Latte" but there are a dozen colors in a wide variety of tones and intensities, so you can pick just the one you need. Although the information we had didn't say the product was waterproof, it wasn't easy to wash off, and we had to use soap and water to remove it. On a hot day, when you may be perspiring, this is good to know. This is a smart product at a sensational price, with SPF to protect your skin on a daily basis. I'll give it a "must-have" rating, for Summer 2007.

PürMiinerals Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15  $18.50 gives your skin it's dose of (anti-aging) daily moisturizer, with a hint of tint, and SPF 15 sunscreen.  The sheer and creamy formula comes in a slim, squeeze tube for clean application that also makes it perfect for purse or travel. Minerals makeup is gentle to skin, and this one not only contains vitamins A and E, chamomile extract and soothing allantoin to help prevent wrinkles and age spots, the color  is derived from natural, iron oxides. Glycerin and sweet almond oil also help to moisturize.  Tinted moisturizers can sometimes produce breakthrough shine, but this one glides over large pores and is kind to oily skin. It smoothes on evenly and leaves no sticky feel. If you want to enhance your complexion, provide your face with SPF protection, and ad just a hint of color without a "made-up" look, this sheer and natural product is a perfect choice. Mineral makeup color comes just from minerals, in this case, iron oxides.  Choose from three colors: light, medium and tan. Normally, we wouldn't think this offered much of a choice, but all are so sheer and blendable, they'll suit nearly every skin tone. In fact, while I usually select the lightest shade, the medium still flattered.

We have always liked the quality and excellent performance of Prescriptives foundations. One for Summer that gives you SPF 15 protection and helps your complexion look even more flawless is Prescriptives 'Virtually Fresh' Skin Refining Makeup SPF 15 $32.50. This foundation in a slim tube with squeeze top, features a lightweight formula that slides on evenly with sheer to medium coverage. In summer, when your skin tends to get oily and pores show, this product, with a patent-pending technology and the help of special, light-reflecting pigments, helps to minimize imperfections and the look of large pores.  We didn't use it for the 4 weeks suggested to see significant pore reduction and more even skin texture, but the foundation did cover up lots of blotchiness, and skin did look more flawless, right away and without wearing a lot of product. Special ingredients include Saw Palmetto (to reduce excess oil), willow bark (to reduce pore "debris" over time), and Vitamin C and oligopeptide (to help boost natural collagen production).  Oil free and good for all skin types, it really feel like you have nothing on your face.  I love the fact that it also has the all-important, SPF 15 to keep you safer from the sun's damaging rays and comes in a generous, 18 different shades. You're going to wear a foundation, why not get one that feels good, helps you look good, and is good for your skin? This one is a great choice for Summer, and beyond.

Trish McEvoy Beauty Chargers come in various sizes. The Small Beauty Charger $7.50 is a refillable, black, square, mirrored plastic logo compact with space for either two large, square Trish McEvoy pans of powder or color, or a combo of smaller eye or blush pans (the Medium Beauty Charger $15.00 is the perfect companion for travel or weekend tote). We highly recommend that at least one item in your charger(s) for Summer should be the excellent, Trish McEvoy Mineral Powder Foundation SPF 15 Mineral Powder Foundation SPF 15 $32.00. This pressed powder foundation offers natural coverage ("Bare" & "Beige" are good for light to medium skin tones, "Nude & Honey" work for medium to medium-deep skin tones). These do more than just cover and smooth your complexion:  they have a non-chemical, natural sunscreen because it's made of crushed minerals combined with the natural sun protectors (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide). Even better, since it's a mineral powder product, it's good for all skin types, even sensitive skin, so you can use this one even with a sunburn to soothe, calm and cover! The sheer, creamy coverage light to medium, depending upon how much you apply. We suggest a sponge, flat puff, or a powder brush.

Neutrogena has been a leader in supplying women with affordable foundation products that have seriously good levels of SPF in them. I never leave home without one tucked into my makeup bag!  Neutrogena Healthy Skin Glow Sheers SPF 30 $12.49 1.1 oz tube is a lightweight, non-greasy foundation in a tube that gives skin  sheer, natural-looking coverage. It also has anti-oxidants and vitamins A, C and E, to help protect you skin against environmental damage. The light-diffusing foundation goes on evenly and easily, skipping over dry spots and small lines and wrinkles. That would make it great, right there, but what makes this product even better isn't just the travel-friendly packaging, or even how it enhances your complexion ---it's the combination of beauty and sun-safety with SPF 30, to provide you with an easy way to protect your skin with some of the highest sun protection in a foundation we've seen.  Available in five sheer, skin tone shades (and an all-over face bronzer) in a super-quick-dry formula there's at least one shade that will be flattering to you. If product in a pump is more your style, Neutrogena Healthy Skin Enhancer  $11.70 1 fl. oz contains a Retinol treatment rich in vitamins, that helps to smooth fine lines and reduce signs of aging. It is lightweight, with an easily absorbed, quick-dry, oil-free formula that won't clog pores. Your skin will feel moisturized and protected, and your complexion will be enhanced, but this product also helps keep you sun-safe with SPF 20!A choice of six, primarily light-to medium, very sheer shades, natural shades means you'll find at least one (maybe more) shades that work well with your unique complexion.  

We just reviewed the Laura Mercier Stick Foundation SPF 15 $40.00 in our April 2007 What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion review column, but I am mentioning it again in this column, because it is an alternative to liquids, powders and creams, and because this superb, solid stick foundation with SPF 15 might be the way to convince you that products with SPF are not only wise because they keep your skin healthy, but they also  really make a difference in how you look. Stick foundations are portable, clean and easy. This one is nearly weightless and blends perfectly for light to medium coverage. It comes in eight warm and cool colors from very light ivory ("Cameo," and "Bare,") through medium beiges, to deepest "Tawny" and "Amber." The foundation lasts for hours, and also gives skin a luminous glow. Why wouldn't you use it?

There's something really exciting about finding a product that provides a happy surprise. That's how I feel about Bronze Mania Summer Foundation by Giorgio Armani Beauty. The bronze tube of cream-to-powder liquid foundation is so creamy and silky, it simply slides on skin perfectly, providing sheer, smooth coverage that even a novice can manage. The secret is a special "Micro-fil" formula that combines lightweight oils and velvety powders for the smoothest application and finish you'll ever experience.  The foundation has absolutely no scent or residue, dries nearly instantly, stays put, and remains true to color. You won't think about the fact that you're wearing foundation again, until you wash it off!  The colors are "sun-kissed" but still subtle:   "N⁰ 1" gives palefaces light,  golden glow. "N⁰ 2" provides a warmer, deeper glow for deeper complexions or already-tanned skin.

Cargo's BeachBlush $26.00 is a bronzer and a blush all wrapped up in one of Cargo's signature, silver tins. Inside, Four stripes of powder somehow blend together (or you can use them separately) to create a believable, sheer, glow. There are six sexy, fun to use combos, all cleverly named for famous beaches, providing the right amount of intensity from very light to very dark, for warm and cool complexions.  We tried the lightest, "Sunset Beach," featuring a slightly shimmery nude, pink, deep bronze, and light peach. The look was glowing but not too bright or fake.  Not only that, you can't help but want to open that cute little tin, and swipe a soft powder brush in the colorful stripes. The tin also keeps the product protected, whether you're traveling, at the beach, or at home.

I am reminded of that 70's cult drink, the Tequila Sunrise, when I look at the gradated squares of soft color in the limited edition, Daylight Cravings Cheek Color $16.00 by Prescriptives.  Beautiful to look at and even nicer to wear, you can't really tell from the photo that the elegant, square, shiny silver mirrored compacts hold soft tones of pink and peach, that offer a little or a lot of translucent color, depending upon how much you layer on.  The super-light, micro-powders seem to blend effortlessly, even into less than perfect skin, giving it color and allure. Use the lighter part for highlight, the deeper for definition or contour, or simply fluff your soft brush over the entire square, for a pretty, natural glow.

Last month we reviewed some new bronzers from Physicians Formula, but we didn't have room for as many as we would have liked. There quite a few more that we think you might like to try. One of my favorites for the fun factor, if nothing else, is Jungle Fever Bronzer and Shimmery Face Powder $11.95 in "Tiger" (light bronzer) and "Leopard" (deep bronzer-Photo). These bi-colored bronzers look so cute! They pair a shimmery face glow (in light or medium) with a matte bronzer in tiger stripes (gold/light) or leopard spots (deep). They're so cute to look at and that makes them more fun to use, but they are also a good choice because they're hypoallergenic, oil-free, and fragrance-free. Ditto Les Botaniques Botanical Bronzer $11.95 in "SunnyBuddy" (very deep) and "SunnyBunch." (medium) who could resist a sunflower of iridescent shimmer pressed into a large round compact of deep, matte bronze? An added bonus is that the "sunflower" contains sunflower extract and a biopolymer complex from plant extracts, providing antioxidants to help protect your skin against free radicals and signs of aging.  Solar Powder SPF 20 Bronzer $12.95 is not new, but the Solar Powder Translucent Foundation $12.95 and light bronzer have been some of my most-used compacts for two years running.  A trio of matte colors is pressed into a picture of a rising run with SPF 20 right on it, to remind you that the light or deep glow you get also gives you UVA/UVB sun protection of SPF 20. This bronzer compact has a built-in mirror and brush in the bottom half, so you can take it anywhere for touch-ups. The soft, easily blended powder offers natural-looking, light to medium coverage, in two tones: Light Bronzer or Bronzer. For sheer ease of use, and for those with sensitive skin, new Mineral Wear Talc-Free Bronzing Veil $11.95 offers the ease of a light, natural glow, in a tube-with-brush formula and good-for-your-skin Vitamins A&E to help condition.  Formulated with minerals, this gentle formula is light and sheer--so sheer in fact, you can use it over foundation or other bronzing products to gently absorb shine and offer a softly radiant finish to your face. If most products are too harsh, you'll find this one to be hypoallergenic, fragrance-oil-talc-Free, dermatologist approved and non-comedogenic (won't clog pores).  The  flow-through all in one jar has a little mirror on the cap. The packaging is a bit too chunky for most handbags, but it sits nicely on your dressing table or desk. Mineral Wear comes in a Talc-Free Loose Face Powder $10.45 in light or deep bronzer with cute brush-in-the-cap packaging, too.

Bliss's self-tanning products have such witty names! One, A Tan for all Seasons" $36.00 4.4 oz. comes in a cool blue, white and tan spray bottle (with a 360-degree nozzle to color all those hard-to-reach places)  contains an advanced, antioxidant-infused self-tanner formulated with aloe vera; a transfer-resistant (sun set) bronzer (gives instant bronzing with a golden sheen that shows where product has been applied, so you know what you've covered and what you've missed),  and even a citrus scent to mask the smell of DHA. Speaking of which, DHA interacts with amino acids in the top layers of skin to create a  natural looking tan in just a few hours (without the sun, of course).   w while you get a gradual, not orange, tan. Another bonus is pyrus malus fruit extract, an antioxidant which helps fight free radical damage.

Although we are recommending a wide variety of products with SPF sun block in them, we still think it's best to stay out of the sun.  Lancaster has an awesome collection of bronzers and self-tanners to give virtually every part of your body a "sun-kissed" glow, without baking in the sun. Here are a few of our faves:  In the "faux glow" arena, Lancaster Golden Bronze Creamy Gel for Legs  $24.00 4.2 fl. oz. is a  luxurious, golden tinted, lightly-shimmering, oil-free, self-tanner that may be your leg's best friend this Summer (super-pale legs are not a sexy look). Dermatologically tested, and with free radical protection, your skin will get an instant, shimmery, sun-kissed glow that will deepen after and hour into a golden, streak-free, "faux" tan.  The Infinite Bronze Carrousel Compact Powder $38.00 might just turn me into a bronzer fan, after all a large, coppery plastic, mirrored compact holds a dozen, pie-shaped wedges of shimmery bronzing colors, from pink, to copper, to brown, and even a middle of very deep brown. It's so pretty to look at, you might be tempted just to look at it, but don't be afraid to swipe a large, soft brush over all the colors, and dust it lightly on cheeks, forehead, nose, chin--wherever the sun would naturally hit, or swipe is all over, for a shimmery bronze effect. You can also use the colors individually if you are creative, for eyes, highlight, and special effects. Also pretty and shimmery is the Infinite Bronze Eyes-Lips-Cheeks Sunlight Palette $35.00. The lightweight, coppery, mirrored compact has a patchwork of five shimmery shades from champagne to copper, gold, and bronze that may be all you need for a Summer face-in-a-case kit. The powders are so soft and velvety, we didn't even need a brush to apply them (although a soft brush is still best) and al little goes a long way, but you can use a lot more for night-time drama. Use each separately as you wish on eyes, cheeks and lips, or dab your brush on several for your own, unique glow. TIP: These make amazing, matte lip colors, and you can make them sexier with a slick of clear or shimmery gloss.  For a more matte bronze, the Matte & Shine Sun Powder SPF 8 $24.00 comes in light, medium and dark tones to flatter virtually every complexion --  I tried "#01-Light Sienna" on my pale, freckled skin, and got instant, believable results that looked like I had a real tan that I could never get in real life, as I burn quickly. It was perfect--not too tan, not too bronze, not too orange, just a bit "sun-kissed." An outer circle of matte bronzer is matched with a shimmery middle. Swipe your brush from the outside edge of the compact to the middle, to get a more natural glow. Use the middle again to highlight, if you wish. We like the striking, coppery mirrored compact, and the fact that there is SPF sun protection so you are protected, at least a little, from the real sun, even though you'll look like you've been tanning.

"Sunless" tanners have come a long, long way in a very short time. The new, Touch of Sun Daily UV Facial Moisturizer $6.99 2.5 fl. oz by Olay is first and foremost a moisturizer, but it's one that has a touch of self-tanner to give you the look of tan without the sun's damaging rays. This product also has SPF 15 to actually protect your skin when you do go outside.   The product literature tells us that the products works with your own "skin-print," so the amount of moisturization and color you get is personalized. I really haven't liked many self-tanners and bronzers, especially since I have fair, freckled skin, but courageous guinea pig that I am, I used Olay Touch of Sun Daily UV Facial Moisturizer for a few days to see how the color developed. Much to my surprise, the moisturizer wasn't heavy or greasy (although my skin felt hydrated) and the "tan" I got was very similar to what I might expect if I'd (carefully) spent a day in the sun.  The tanning was not only very gradual, but very natural. It didn't hide my real skin tone, so it didn't look painted on. I'm not a chemist, of course, but the product works by providing a lot of moisturization that triggers a gentle reaction with skin's amino acids to create a gradual increase in the melanoidins that help create that health-looking "glow" you want with a self-tanner. If you add a second application, you get more "radiance," and you can layer more color depending upon how often you apply this product (those with oily skin might want to use it less often). Of course, the more often you use it, the more moisturized your skin will be as well. We didn't use Touch of Sun for the 2 weeks necessary to experience the 24-hour hydration it promised, but our skin did feel comfortable and soft. Self-tanners and bronzers do not provide SPF protection nor do they always provide good hydration to skin. This one does all three!  We were also impressed with the original Olay Regenerist products, but now, there's Olay Regenerist Touch Of Sun $18.99 2.5 fl. oz. It works like the regular Touch of Sun we just described above (including the SPF 15 sun protection) providing gradual color and good moisturization, but it also has the same, anti-aging benefits as the original Regenerist. This is truly modern technology--one lotion for all skin tones gives you a glowing, more youthful looking skin without the fear of turning "orange." The product is lightweight and non-comedogenic  (won't clog pores). A real tan might make you initially appear younger and healthier, but after all, the sun's rays will damage and age your skin. Touch of Sun products help you have a safe, sun-kissed look easily, safely, and at  affordable prices.

Sun-kissed and sexy, that's what Stila's Summer products will do for your skin, from face to feet. Stila Sun Bronzing Powder SPF 15 $28.00 has always been popular for the way it gives your face a "no sun" burnishing, but now it is even better with SPF 15 to actually help protect your skin from the sun's damaging rays while it helps you look like you've been sunbathing. There are two colors that come in a lightweight, coppery, mirrored compact. We tried "Shade 1,"  a light, sheer, sheer golden matte bronze that gives a light, "San Tropez" kiss of the sun,  to even the palest complexions. "Shade 02" is sheer golden matte bronze that is good for medium complexions. Just dust a bit over your cheeks and forehead, or all over...and glow! The rest of your body doesn't have to be left out in the cold, however. Stila Sun Shimmer Dry Oil $26.00 3.4 fl. oz. is a marvelous multi-tasker that not only gives your skin a natural and glistening tint that looks trés sexy, it also has macadamia nut and kukui nut oils, and sandalwood and barley extracts, to keep sun-parched (or simply dry) skin, looking and feeling soft and hydrated. The spray pump makes it fun, clean and easy to apply. We use ours after being outdoors, and treat ourselves to a spritz of shine and "sun" to keep our legs and arms looking awesome, anytime. This is definitely a "must-have" for anyone who shows a bit of skin!

Tinted moisturizers are great for people who don't really want to wear foundation, but want to benefits of both a moisturizer and some complexion-enhancement. They offer even more benefits if they include SPF protection, making this product a triple-treat to streamline your beauty routine. MD Skincare is the creation of New York dermatologist, Dr. Dennis Gross.  He creates innovative products that are effective and simple to use. The All-In-One Tinted Moisturizer $42.00 1.7 fl. oz by MDSkincare comes in a white, pump bottle and the product blends quickly and easily into your skin. From a moisturizing standpoint, this one works especially well for all skin types because it was designed to release moisture just where you need it thanks to contains Sodium Hyaluronate and Dimethicone, thereby keeping your skin looking and feeling great, not greasy.  Tinted moisturizers are great choices to add SPF to your daily routine, without applying a separate sun block. This product's SPF 15 has ingredients such as Parasol, Emu Oil, Allantoin, Octyl Methoxycinnimate and Titanium Dioxide--some of the least irritating sunscreen ingredients available.  It also contains Vitamin E and Vitamin C, which play an essential role in building collagen.  As a beauty product, there are three shades (Light, Medium and Dark) and the consistency is so sheer, one of three will work for virtually every skin tone. It absorbs quickly and doesn't rub off easily...another great reason to moisturize, beautify, and protect your skin!

Last month we reviewed the PCA Skin men's line, but there are many PCA Skin products for both men and women that offer multi-tasking skin benefits that are important for your skin's health, all year round. One we really like is the pHaze 7: Protecting Hydrator SPF 25  $28.00 1.7 fl. oz.  $25.95 . This sunblock comes in a plastic, screw top jar. It's a serious, UVB/UVA sun block with avobenzone to protect against the longer UVA spectrum, that is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation! In case you're wondering what avobenzone is, many doctors feel that the most effective sunscreens contain avobenzone and titanium dioxide. The lightly scented, lightweight, non-greasy formulation works for all skin types, but it's especially good for those who tend to break out from sun blocks, or who have oily, blemish prone skin. For women and men with dry, mature skin, pHaze 6+ Hydrator Plus SPF 25 $30.00 1.7 fl. oz is a collagen-free  moisturizer (also in a jar with screw-top lid) that still offers avobenzone and a good, SPF protection from UVA and UVB rays while replenishing natural oils.

Back in "What Works" September, 2006, we reviewed a new, foaming product: Definity Deep Penetrating Foaming Moisturizer by Olay.  now there's  an even more exciting development: Olay Definity Deep Penetrating Foaming Moisturizer with SPF 15 1.7 oz.  Olay reports that both these moisturizers actually penetrate 10 surface layers deep to hydrate from within and help to reverse the appearance of past skin damage, while allowing skin to naturally rebuild collagen. We can't substantiate the claim, but we can tell you that we liked the way our skin looked and felt after using the foaming (and therefore, fun) product. We also like the idea that the SPF 15 version helps to protect our skin against the sun's damaging rays.  The Essential Glucosamine Complex also helps to fight the appearance of age spots, blotches, and fine lines.  There are additional "luminizing" ingredients that help your skin look better right away, as you're working to actually improve it! As we mentioned, the foam is fun to apply, but it has more function than just the fun factor: the formula also has more than 15 times the volume of an equal weight of ordinary moisturizer. It spreads more easily than a cream and it feels literally, like you're wearing nothing on your face at all (but you will feel and see better, hydrated, softer looking skin).  We think the packaging oversized, plastic "capsule" packaging is an attention grabber, although it's not going to win any  "green" awards, and we urge men and women alike to try both versions of this product as Summer heats up. You'll be getting cutting-edge skincare at a  very reasonable price.

Cetaphil is one of those brands you know about, but maybe never tried. It's great for people with sensitive skin, especially the no-soap Gentle Skin Cleanser $4.25 4 oz, $7.63 8 oz, $10.50 16 oz.  I didn't know that Cetaphil also had a Daily Facial Moisturizer with SPF 15$10.50 4 oz. The very rich, very lightly-scented lotion is not just good for normal, healthy skin, but can also be used to hydrate and protect skin that otherwise might not be able to tolerate products such as skin conditions of acne, atopic dermatitis, eczema impetigo, psoriasis, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, and even sunburn. The product is not only moisturizing, but has Parsol® 1789 to protect from the sun's harmful UVA rays. It also provides protection against the UVB rays. No-comedogenic, fragrance-free and PABA-free--no wonder dermatologists recommend it. The clean, slim, white pump bottle with simple, green label will make it acceptable and appealing to men and children, too. If you, or anyone in your family has skin challenges, you'll want this product for Summer.

You already know to apply sun protection when you go outside, but if you like to hike, bike, or lounge in your backyard, the bugs are sharing the great outdoors with you. Luckily, devotees of Avon's Skin-So-Soft moisturizing products realized that the original Skin-So-Soft moisturizing lotion also repelled certain types of insects. Avon took the original one step better, creating a line of Skin-So-Soft suncare products that are not only good for your skin, but also have SPF protection and repel insects such as mosquitoes, deer ticks  and other annoying, flying, crawling, and biting insects. My weekend retreat is a true, "wild kingdom" when it comes to bugs, so I really appreciate this line of Avon products!  My personal favorite is the Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus Insect Repellent Unscented SPF 15 Sunscreen Spray $10.00 4 oz. A light, CFC-free aerosol mist covers evenly, thoroughly and without messing up your hands, and the DEET-free formula won't need to be washed off when coming in from the outdoors.  It isn't greasy or smelly, and it keeps me from being eaten alive while I'm relaxing, outdoors. For the most SPF protection, Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion $10.00 4 oz. also has a very water resistant formula that is good for your skin with moisturizing aloe and Vitamin E.  A slim, blue tube with orange flip cap dispenses a high SPF with a  light scent. For families, it's good to know that this one is pediatrician and dermatologist-tested. DEET-Free and PABA-Free, too. If you're going camping or into an area where the bug population, reigns supreme, Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus IR3535® Expedition™ Gentle Breeze™SPF 15 Pump Spray $12.00 4 fl. oz provides liquid coverage in a pump spray. The ingredient IR3535® provides for longer-lasting repellency against mosquitoes and deer ticks, which may transmit West Nile Virus and Lyme Disease, but it still doesn't have to be washed off (a good thing to know, if you're camping and not near a shower source). These are high quality, effective products that do double (and triple) duty. They're now a family "must-have' for Summertime!

Clarins is known for, high quality sunscreens. They make "Progressive Tanners"  (with high SPF) and "Rapid Tanners" (less SPF protection). In fact, Clarins offers an impressive range of sunscreens and tanners with different SPF's and textures for every skin type. We tried just a few of the collection. For fast results on darker or already tanned skin and a very modest amount of broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection of SPF 8, SunScreen Cooling Gel Rapid Tanning $28.00 6.8 fl. oz also has Vitamin E and extracts of senna, plane tree, and aloe vera help hydrate skin. There's also a Sunscreen Smoothing Cream-Gel Rapid Tanning SPF 10 $34.00 7 oz. that provides just a bit more UVA/UVB protection in a water-resistant, allergy-tested formula. For those who don't want to tan, or who have very pale skin that is prone to sunburn, we liked the Clarins Sunscreen Soothing Cream Progressive Tanning SPF 20 $34.00 7 oz that provides a lightweight, non-oily, water-resistant cream products with SPF 20 sunscreen that protects, hydrates and nurtures your skin with aloe and vitamin E, while it helps you to create a long-lasting, "faux" tan. A "Phyto-Sunactyl 2 plant-based complex based on the olive tree, senna and baobab helps skin look healthy and fights premature aging. If you're going to either sunbathe, you might as well use a product that treats your skin like the precious commodity it is. Reviewers gave this two thumbs up.  We also liked the Sunscreen Spray Oil-Free Lotion Progressive Tanning for Outdoor Sports SPF 15 $28.50 5.1 oz.  Using a spray makes it so much easier to apply the product evenly and thoroughly to the backs of legs and arms, and other hard-to-reach places. The plastic pump bottle makes this a good choice outdoors activities such as fishing and boating. The SPF 15 liquid look like an oil, but it's not--it's a lightweight, hydrating, and easily absorbed liquid that leaves no residue. Our male reviewers particularly like it.  If you have sensitive skin but you want high SPF and a water-resistant formula, try Sunscreen Cream SPF 30 for Sun Sensitive Skin $28.00 4.4 oz. This one has SPF 30 for all skin types but it's particularly good for those with sensitive skin. We didn't get the complete lowdown on the ingredients, but there are also four types of sunscreen in this one: "Titanium Dioxide"  (3.24%); "Octocrylene" (9%), "Octinoxate"(7.5%) and "ensulizole" (3%). Reviewers gave high marks to this lightweight cream, citing the fact that it absorbs fast and provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection. In actual sunbathing conditions reviewers reported that they felt well protected, the water-resistant properties worked well, and their skin felt hydrated and soft after their sunbathing session. We appreciate the variety and quality of these Clarins products. They're pleasant to use, so you're likely to actually apply them.  In the end, that's key.

Soleil Plaisir Protective Face Cream SPF 30 $50.00 2.6 oz. by Darphin, comes in a simple, white tube with screw cap, but don't be fooled: there's an awesome product inside. It is new (just launched in June) and it is pricey, but as I always say: while you don't always get what you pay for, you always pay for what you get. This silky, sensuous, floral-scented cream not only has SPF 30 to protect against UVA/UVB rays, it features something new, exciting, extra:  "Venuceane," a heat-activated, powerful anti-oxidant created from a marine micro-organism, actually increases it's own protection level when exposed to heat.  Now, that's a reason to actually be in the sun! It also contains Vitamin E, moisturizing Sodium hyaluronate, and soothing aloe, to provide skin bennies you'd expect from a luxury line like Darphin.  You can't help but love the  silky texture, and the fact that it is good for all skin types, but it is also waterproof. The barely-there formula means you can wear it alone, or under makeup. We felt better about our skin using this unique product--it's a splurge that actually does such good things for our skin.  Treat yourself: your skin needs it, you deserve it!

Dermalogica, founded in 1986 by Jane Wurwand, a British skin care therapist, thinks good skin care should focus on results and utility, not ornate packaging and hype. Still, it's the packaging of the of Solar Defense Wipes with SPF 15 $22.00 15/wipes that has really excited us. The bright orange, soft-sided, take-it-anywhere packaging is similar to the types facial cleansers are now embracing. A re-sealable, sticky pull-tab keeps the large-sized wipes (the size of a large washcloth) from drying out or becoming soiled. The soft, disposable wipes contain a generous helping of water-resistant, UV sunscreen containing good-for-your-skin vitamins & plant extracts (eg. green tea and grape seed extract) to fight against free radicals. The sunscreen goes on easily and with a very lovely, light, herbal scent (a nice change from chemicals). It's so light you'll barely know you have it on, so the entire family will feel more inclined to pull out a wipe, and protect themselves even if all they're doing is riding in the car. The active ingredients include Octinoxate (.5%) and Oxybenzone (4%). All of the Dermalogica suncare products include a UV smart booster technology -- a capsule that bursts upon when it comes in contact with UV rays, and releasing an antioxidant complex with Vitamin C and E to protect against free radicals. This means the products contain fewer irritating sunscreen ingredients which may be in products with high SPF.  Dermalogica Waterblock Solar Spray SPF 30 $38.00 4.1 fl. oz. arrives in a white plastic pump bottle with orange accents, making effective application of sun products to every part of your body, much easier and cleaner. The water resistant formula is supposedly good for up to 80 minutes, although we didn't test it that long. We can report that when we began to perspire, however, the product didn't melt off, so we're guessing it will work well when exposed to water, too. This product protects your skin against UVA/UVB rays, while antioxidants protect against free radicals and grapefruit oil and organic silicones condition the skin and prevent moisture loss. There  is no alcohol in this product, not any artificial fragrance or color. This is really nice for outdoors--a good choice for your entire family.

It's good to know that titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are some of the most effective sun blocks of harmful UVA/UVB rays. It's even better to know that they're in a very nice, very effective, organic sun block, like Kimberly Sayer's Organic Family Sunblock SPF 25 $19.95 4 oz.  I liked the light, fresh, slightly herbal scent, and the easily absorbed, gentle, chemical free formula that makes it great for everyone in your family, from the very young, to the very old.  This sun block is pleasant to use, containing organic ingredients such as pure plant oils and extracts, plus a nice SPF 25 with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.  The easily absorbed, white cream also has good-for-your-skin ingredients to nourish, soothe and hydrate, such as chamomile, cocoa butter, and buckthorn (rich in Vitamins A,B,C & E, and carotene), and antioxidant green tea and grapeseed extracts (to protect against free radicals).  The slim, white tube is perfect for tote and travel. It's an all around good sun block, and a perfect choice for anyone with sensitive skin, and for the varying needs of all your family members.

Trish McEvoy Luxe Moisture Balm SPF 15 $28.00 is not the newest product on the market, but it's one of the all-purpose best when it comes to easy, portable protection and a great-for-your-skin formula. SPF 15 helps to protect skin from the sun's damaging rays, and we know the entire family will like the very lightly scented, light and comfortable to wear balm that not only moisturizes and soothes skin, but can be used on lips, face, elbows--anywhere extra moisture and protection is needed.  The solid balm in it's small, slim,  swivel-up packaging is also wide enough to make it easy to apply to larger areas with one stroke, as well as small ones.  For spot protection, on-the-spot, this is the perfect choice to pop into a pocket or purse.  I use mine every evening as well before bedtime for smoother, softer lips in the A.M.

When you're thinking about sunscreens, it's great to know that the product that will be helping you, is helping others as well. That's why we think you'll feel so good about the limited edition Daily Sun Defense SPF 20 $30.00 3 fl. oz by SkinCeuticals.  This  provides serious sun protection, and SkinCeuticals also will donate a portion of the sale of the sunscreen to the Skin Cancer Foundation to help educate people about skin cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. We tried the SPF 20, which has 5% transparent zinc oxide (Z-Cote) of the most effective UVA and UVB sun blockers, to help protect against UVA/UVB rays. Even though this this lotion packs a wallop against skin damage with SPF 20 (*there's an SPF 30, too), it is lightweight and unscented, paba and oil free, and can be used under makeup and by all skin types. We found that the lotion smoothed on easily and absorbed quickly, helping us to completely forget we even had a sunscreen, on! The packaging for these charity-driven products is a light tangerine, with a few "Melanoma Facts"  (Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer and the incidence of it is on the rise) on the side of the package, as well as information about the Skin Cancer Foundation.

Ray of Hope $36.00 8.5 oz. by Bliss is the latest hope-in-a-bottle for those who wish they were tan, toned and trim as well as sunsafe in their swimsuits. This water-resistant, broad spectrum SPF 20 sunscreen has a little something extra: exclusive solar-activated "slender spheres" that release fat-attacking molecules when you expose your skin to the sun. Triggered by the sun, encapsulated caffeine and centalla asiatica help to break up fat deposits, while aloe vera soothes and hydrates sun-parched skin, and antioxidant Vitamins A and E protect against free radicals. We didn't get slim in a second, but the rich, unscented sun screen in the attractive, light blue, yellow and white pump bottle, plus SPF 20, made us feel like we were doing a good thing for ourselves. At best, regular use of this product might trim the flab, but at the very least, you'll be sunsafe. Two other nice, new sunscreens from Bliss have high SPF, too.  The Big Screen SPF 30 $25.00 8.5 oz. is a nicely citrus-scented, water-resistant sunscreen in a light blue pump bottle. It's also kind to your skin, with lots of moisture binding rice bran oil and wheat protein that act as super-hydrators. Aloe soothes, Vitamins A and E help stop the wrinkles. Applied 30 minutes before sun exposure, your skin will feel hydrated (but not greasy) and you'll stay safe in the sun. Sunban Face $17.00 1.7 fl. oz provides oil-free, sunscreen protection from the sun with SPF 30+ (we weren't able to figure out what the "+" was, but SPF 30 is more than adequate  protection for an everyday foray outside). It features  "Smartsun," Bliss's exclusive ingredient that simultaneously protects against UV rays and releases and activates antioxidant Vitamins c and E when exposed to UV rays.  We love, love love, that even thought this is a tube, it has a pump applicator. It makes application easier, and motivates us to continue applying it often.  Thanks, Bliss!

MD Skincare's Powerful Sun Protection SPF 30  Sunscreen Lotion $42.00 5 oz. comes in an impressive looking,  coppery plastic bottle with white pump top, but the cutting-edge product inside is even more impressive. Apparently UVA/UVB rays can do even more damage than we might have been aware of. It's a bit complicated, but the basic idea is that heavy metals (particularly iron and copper) that are found in tap water, sweat, and on your skin are free radicals themselves, but the presence of sunlight can energize them further to cause DNA mutation (implicated in skin cancer, wrinkling, and skin aging). Powerful Sun Protection SPF 30 Lotion contains a metal-encapsulating chelator  that provides more sun protection to skin when it is exposed to the sun’s rays.  Chelators bind with the iron particles and separate them from the skin to help reduce DNA mutations and collagen breakdown. This product also contains Lycopenes to diminish damage from the sun’s free radicals, green tea extract to help reverse sun damage and antioxidants such as Vitamins A, C and E to provide broad-spectrum sun protection. The lotion itself is rich and creamy, unscented, and easily absorbed with leaving a greasy feel. Men and children will find it pleasant to use, too. You can also get this product in individual packets! Powerful Sun Protection SPF 30 Sunscreen Packettes $42.00/60 packettes (photo) make it ridiculously easy to apply sunscreen anywhere, any time.  These thin, small, square, foil-wrapped packettes are so easy to carry they'll fit into the tightest jeans or handbag.  You no longer have any excuse to stay unprotected in the sun now that you don't even have to lug a bottle of sunscreen around with you.  We love these, not just for the cutting-edge technology, but for their effectiveness. True, individual packettes of sunscreen can be a bit pricey, but with pre-measured products like this one, we think you'll be motivated to tuck a bunch into your tote or pocket for the beach, boating, car travel, etc. If you like the product and you have it handy, you'll use it In the end, that's the most important thing. TIP: To get the most out of this product, apply it daily and at least 30 minutes prior to direct sun exposure.

We like the idea of all natural products, and  2007 CEW Beauty Award Nominee, Burt's Bees delivers them for Summer, in handy, flip-top tubes. Chemical-free sunblocks are not the easiest thing to find, but for those who want all natural products, Burt's Bees Chemical-Free Sunscreen, SPF 15  with Hemp Seed Oil $15.00 3.46 oz. offers UVA/UVB protection in a thick, freshly-scented cream dispensed from a slim, flip-top tube. The product keeps skin hydrated without using sunscreen chemicals. There is the active ingredient titanium dioxide 6.38% in this cream. Inactive Ingredients include: water, hemp seed oil, vegetable glycerin, stearic acid, wheatgrass extract, ricegrass extract, stoneroot extract, glucose, sucrose distearate, sucrose stearate, calendula extract, golden seal extract, witch hazel extract, comfrey extract, xanthan gum, sodium borate, lecithin, silica, acacia gum, alginic acid, orange oil, amyris oil, copaiba balsam oil, patchouli oil, sandalwood oil, guaiacwood oil, aluminum hydroxide, fragrance, glucose oxidase & lactoperoxidase. After sun, we liked the non-greasy, quickly-abosrbing formula of  Burt's Bees Aloe & Linden Flower After Sun Smoother $10.00 6.6 fl. oz. This lovely lotion has lots of good-for-your-skin, natural ingredients, including: Aloe, Linden Extract and Coconut Oil, that work hard to keep your skin soothed, moisturized. and soft,  after sunning. We also liked the  light, fresh, lemony scent, the non-greasy, quickly-absorbing formula,  and the handy, flip-top tube that makes us want to tuck it into our tote bag!

When you really need to be protected as long as possible, you'll want to use the highest SPF you can get. And, the highest we've seen is a commercial sunblock is the Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 70 $9.99 3 oz by Neutrogena. What I find remarkable about this product is that although it has a huge amount of UVA/UVB SPF protection, it's so lightweight you'll forget you have it on (thanks to a "dry touch" technology that utilizes micronized silica powder to instantly absorb  excess sunscreen oils and provide a sheer, matte finish to your skin). Some SPF products break down under the heat of UVA or UVB rays, but this product has "helioplex" to keep it stable and effective. Bennies also include PABA-free, light sent, waterproof and sweat-proof, and moisturizing. Is it necessary to go up to SPF 70? It is certainly one way to offer your skin the higher level of SPF protection, and for those who burn rapidly, who already have sun damage, and/or who cannot count on re-applying an adequate amount of sunblock easily or regularly, this is a must-have choice.  Neutrogena has a number of other sun blocks in varying formulas that are high SPF and feature helioplex as well. My favorites are the spray-type body mists:  Fresh Cooling Body Mist Sunblock SPF 30 or 45 $9.49 5 fl. oz for example, provides a fine mist that really covers your body thoroughly, without any need to rub the sunblock in. The refreshing, cooling sensation also makes you want to apply it, especially in hot, sticky weather.  I also like the UltraSheer Body Mist Sunblock SPF 30 $9.99 5 oz. Lightweight, non-greasy, PABA free and waterproof, the continuous spray nozzle lets you cover all your body parts with broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection. These are super sun-safe products at amazingly reasonable prices.  Finally, for more pleasure with protection, the Neutrogena Fresh Cooling Sunblock Gel SPF 30  $9.99 4 oz. offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection and a cooling sensation that dry, overworked, and sun-parched skin is going to love. Of course it's sweatproof and waterproof and resists rub-off, but we think that welcome, refreshing cool will keep you coming back for more (which is a good thing). Good thing, as well.