LOVE . SUN . BEAUTY

Nature is constantly surprising and amazing us. One of the most interesting things I learned recently is just how many animals can produce their own sunscreen. According to a study in eLife, there are a number of fish, amphibians, reptiles, and birds that can produce gadusol, a compound that absorbs UV rays and essentially acts as sunscreen, protecting their skin from sun damage and sunburns. 

Other animals, too, have the ability to protect their skin from sun damage. Hippopotamuses' sweat is comprised of a red and orange pigment. The red contains an antibiotic and the orange absorbs UV rays. Together, they protect hippos from sunburns and bacterial infections. And Mantis shrimp have sunscreen in their eyes due to an amino acid pigment called MAAs.

Scientists are studying these sunscreen-producing creatures in more detail in hopes of developing more effective and more natural sunscreens. Many of today's sunscreens are chemical-ridden and are not environmentally friendly. I would love to see more natural alternatives hit the market.

Reading about these animals and their own special ability to protect themselves from UV rays made me think of the power of having a second skin. The downside to sunscreen is that you have to frequently reapply it, and it can feel greasy and oily. You always know when you're wearing sunscreen because you can feel, smell, and see it. Wouldn't it be better if we could have our own second skin to protect?

While we don't have this yet, we do have Sundriven® UV wear, which is the next best thing. What I love most about Sundriven® UV wear is that the fabric is botanical, eco-friendly, soft, and literally feels like a second skin. It's cool to the touch and never feels heavy or uncomfortable. Best of all, it has UPF 50+, so you can protect your body from the sun without the discomfort or hassle of sunscreen. From driving gloves and wraps to tops and skirts, you can easily incorporate Sundriven® into your style and daily outfits.

The next time you're searching for an alternative to sunscreen, take a cue from nature and go for a second skin with the help of Sundriven®!

It seems just about everything causes cancer. Building materials, hair dye, gas stations, air pollution...you name it. This makes the world around us seem pretty dreary. Life is meant to be enjoyed, and that includes the beautiful outdoors. So while it may seem as though carcinogens are all around us, there are ways we can protect ourselves. We can wear sunscreen and Sundriven® UV wear when we're outside. We can exercise. We can take care of our bodies and we can eat healthy foods.

For now, let's focus on food and some that doctors and scientists believe may help prevent cancer. And remember, no food can stop cancer in its tracks or prevent it entirely. However, there are some foods that research shows have cancer-fighting properties.

Garlic

Some studies have shown that garlic may help reduce the chances of cancer in digestive organs, like the colon or esophagus. How? Scientists believe either keep cancer-causing substances from working or they help prevent cancer cells from multiplying. While there is no hard rule about how much garlic you need to eat, many suggest a clove a day.

Berries

Out of all vegetables and fruits, berries are believed to be the best at reducing cancer risks. Berries have so many incredible benefits, due to their high level of antioxidants. In particular, blueberries, raspberries, and cranberries are believed to have the highest potential to ward off cancer, largely due to an antioxidant known as pterostilbene.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes (or any veggie high in beta-carotene) has shown to reduce risk of cancer in the colon, breast, and lungs. If you aren't a fan of sweet potatoes, look for leafy greens and other orange veggies with beta-carotene, folate, fiber, and vitamin C.

Green Tea

This is another item that contains a lot of antioxidants. Green tea has an antioxidant called catechins, which is believed to prevent free radicals from damaging cells. Some studies show that catechins can even reduce tumor cell growth and shrink tumors.

Salmon

This healthy fish is rich in vitamin D, a rarity in many foods other than dairy products. Scientists believe that vitamin D can block some development of blood vessels that feed growing tumors. Studies also show that low vitamin D levels are linked to colon and breast cancer, among other types. If you don't like salmon or dairy, consider a vitamin D supplement with at least 800 IUs of vitamin D3.

Tumeric

Typically used in Indian dishes, tumeric is a spice in curry powder. The active ingredient, curcumin, is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Based on studies using lab animals, this ingredient has helped prevent breast, colon, liver, stomach, and lung cancer.

Cruciferous Veggies

You knew this would be on the list. Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and dark leafy greens are all believed to be helpful in preventing cancer, mainly due to their ability to protect you from free radicals. Free radicals are what can damage the DNA of your cells. The specific phytonutrient in these veggies believed to be most beneficial is glucosinolates. Scientists believe these can hinder the metabolism of certain carcinogens and increase the production of detoxification enzymes.

Author: Melissa

Happy Memorial Day everyone! This holiday always seems to act as an official reminder about the impending summer days. It's the perfect time of year to shop for your summer essentials so you'll be ready and fashionable for every BBQ, beach day, baseball game, or weekend getaway.

Make sure you have these essentials on your summer list.

A Bathing Suit

What's summer without swimming, whether it's in a pool, lake, or the ocean? One-pieces are making a comeback and we love this style from Victoria's Secret:

A Bathing Suit Cover-Up

Don't forget a simple cover-up to throw on over your bathing suit. We love the Sundriven Lena 6-way hooded wrap. There are so many different ways to wear it and the fabric is cool and comfortable. Best of all, with UPF 50+ in the fabric, you can protect your skin.

A Carryall Bag

In summer, you want a bag that can store just about everything you need and that won't easily get dirty. We love a colorful and sturdy canvas bag, like this one from TOMS.

Sunscreen

Of course you can't forget about sunscreen! It's a must year-round and especially in the summer. We love this tinted daily shield with SPF 40 from Clarins. It feels more like a moisturizer than greasy sunscreen. 

And for the rest of your body? We love this lotion spray, also by Clarins.

Sunglasses

Protect your eyes with some fun sunglasses. For summer, we like to go a little wild and colorful with our sunglasses. These from Madewell are in our bag.

A Hat

A hat not only protects your scalp and face from sunburns, but it also looks stylish. We love this retro looking hat from Urban Outfitters.

A Wear Everywhere Dress

Lastly, our summer must-haves list includes a dress that you can wear everywhere and anywhere. Our pick is the Sundriven Ava dress, which features UPF 50+. It's comfortable, cool, and protects your skin.

A few other things to add to your list? A chapstick with SPF, a beautiful coral-colored lipstick, and a durable pair of sandals. What are your must-haves for summer? What else would you include on this list?

Author: Melissa Darcey