Your Go-To Guide for Natural Sun Care & After-Sun Relief

Brought to you by your sun-smart friends at Market of Choice.

Let’s talk sunshine. Here in the Pacific Northwest, things are heating up and those sneaky UV rays are making their way through the clouds—and right onto your skin. That’s why sun care and after-sun care are a must. Luckily, our Whole Health team has your back (and your face, and your shoulders) with tips, tricks, and local favorites to keep your skin happy and healthy.

Why Sun Care is Kind of a Big Deal

We get it—you want to feel that warm sunshine on your face after a long winter. But while soaking up the rays feels amazing, too much unprotected sun can lead to sunburns, premature aging, and long-term skin damage. That’s where sunscreen comes in. It’s like armor for your skin.

So what’s SPF anyway? In short, it’s your level of protection against UVB rays (the ones responsible for that crispy-red sunburn look). The higher the number, the more coverage you get—though no SPF blocks everything. And don’t forget to look for words like “broad-spectrum” (protects against both UVA and UVB rays) and “water-resistant” (so you’re not unprotected the second you start to sweat or splash).

Ready to stock up? Here are a few of our favorite sun care superheroes, all available at Market of Choice:

🌞 Alba Botanica Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

Eco-friendly, fragrance-free, and perfect for sensitive skin, this non-greasy sunscreen is a win-win for your face and the planet.

🌞 Hawaiian Tropic Everyday Active Lotion SPF 30

Out hiking? Paddleboarding? Chasing your dog at the park? This lightweight, vegan formula is built for people on the move—and it smells like summer.

🌞 Badger Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Made with zinc oxide for full-spectrum protection, this sunscreen goes the extra mile. It’s reef-safe, water-resistant, and made with 98% organic ingredients

🌞 Mad Hippie Luminizing Facial SPF

Looking for something just for your face? This locally made gem adds a subtle shimmer and won’t clog pores. It’s Oregon-made, so every purchase supports our local community. Bonus points!

So You Got a Little Too Much Sun…

Hey, it happens. Even with the best intentions, sometimes we all turn into tomatoes. That’s where after-sun care steps in to cool, calm, and repair.

After-sun products are like a tall drink of water for your skin. They help replenish moisture, ease irritation, and keep that sun-kissed glow from turning into a peeling mess. Look for ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, and chamomile—nature’s best skin saviors.
Here are a few after-sun goodies we love:

🌿 Hawaiian Tropic After Sun Lotion Moisturizer

With coconut oil, shea butter, and avocado oil, this tropical-scented lotion feels like a vacation in a bottle—and your skin will thank you.

🌿 Sun Bum Cool Down Gel

This aloe-packed gel is a post-beach essential. It helps soothe and repair skin, prevents peeling, and even smells amazing thanks to a little tea tree oil.

🌿 Badger Aloe Vera After Sun Gel

Made with 96% organic aloe juice (basically straight from the plant), this gel is lightweight, non-sticky, and perfect for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

How to Choose What’s Right for You

Not sure whether to go with a lotion or a gel? Here’s the scoop:

• Lotions are great for dry or everyday skin—they hydrate and soothe.
• Gels feel extra refreshing, especially if you’re sunburned and need cooling relief ASAP.

And remember, the best product is the one that works for your skin. Sensitive? Go fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. Super dry? Reach for deep hydration. Need help picking the right fit? Our Whole Health team is happy to walk you through it.

Whether you’re headed to the beach, the backyard, or just running errands around town, sun care is always a smart move. And when the sun gets the best of you, after-sun care is your skin’s BFF. Stop by your local Market of Choice and check out our full lineup of natural sun care and after-sun goodies—including awesome local brands made right here in Oregon.

Stay safe out there and don’t forget your sunscreen! 😎